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Ask the Image Expert Sherry Maysonave is the founder and president of Empowerment Enterprises, one of America's leading communication-image firms. Sherry conducts corporate seminars and coaches executives, professionals, and politicians in achieving excellence in communication and image. She is also the author of Casual Power: How to Power Up your Nonverbal Communication and Dress Down for Success
Work-Related Holiday Reception and PartyQuestion: Sherry,I have a company holiday reception and dinner party to attend this month occurring from 7 to 11 p.m. I just started this position as an assistant to the CEO, so I would really like to make an impression. What should I wear? I’Esha Answer: Company parties are still considered professional events; yet, they call for festive attire. To wow the CEO, you should not wear anything too slinky or over-the-top sexy. Since your description of the evening does not sound like a black tie event, avoid wearing a heavily sequined dress or jacket. You know the ones, those that are solid sequins. However, scattered sparkles on a garment are okay for semi-formal. Also shun full-skirted ball gown looks; they are too formal for this type of event. Within these parameters, there are numerous options available to you. A tuxedo pantsuit, in black or winter white, worn with a lacy or sparkly boostier is always elegant and professional. Velvet dresses, long or short in any holiday color, are always appropriate. A velvet skirt or pants topped with a dressy blouse (made of satin, taffeta, or lace) or a sparkly sweater works great for a holiday dinner party. The “little black dress” is always appropriate and can make a great impression, if it fits you well and it is made of a quality fabric. It can be long or short. It can be a sleeveless style if you have good arms, and if it does not have a low cut neckline or is back-less. Should you opt for the long, simple, sleeveless look, wear a shawl (oblong scarf type) draped loosely around your arms. The shawl fabric should be compatible with the dress fabric; it could be made of velvet, lace, or have lurex threads running through it. Wear sparkly earrings and a dressy necklace (an evening type) that makes an important statement and one that complements the neckline of the dress. Look special in every way, paying attention to your hair, makeup, and your shoes. And since, it is a dinner party, I recommend that you brush up on your dining etiquette skills. Those little mistakes, such as using the wrong bread plate or buttering your bread incorrectly, using the wrong service utensils, etc. can sabotage a boss’s good opinion of you. Try not to appear nervous and don’t forget to smile and enjoy the party.
Best of luck to you,
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