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The clothes you sport at a semi-formal company party reveal more than just your fashion budget; they speak volumes about your personality. Go too risqué and you become "that girl" from the company party, but go too traditional and you become "the prude." Dress too casual and you're insulting the occasion, but dress too fancy and you look like the queen of dorks.
Boot-Cut Slacks and Boots
Pairing boot-cut slacks, stylish boots and a fancy top gives you that perfect balance of semi-formal style for a work environment. Start with a pair of fitted slacks that have that slight flare below the knee, with or without a cuff. Stick with slacks in a solid color -- black, brown, purple, green -- just as long as it's on the dark side. Add a pair of matching ankle boots with a small heel to keep your "modern woman" look fluid. Slip on a decorative top to match your boot-cut slacks, such as silky top with a beaded neckline or a lacy camisole under a sheer T. Remember, if the shirt requires a belt, wear one and make sure it matches you shoes!
Knit Dress and Sandals
You know those black knit dresses that look like a cross between a sundress and a cocktail dress? Those things are handy when it comes to semi-formal anything. However, you do want to avoid the dresses embellished with rhinestones -- they just scream, "I cannot afford a nice dress and wasted my money on something tacky instead." Make sure the dress isn't too strappy or risqué, then just slip it on with some fashionable sandals. Look for sandals with a small heel so they look more fashionista than beach bum.
Pencil Skirt and Top
Take your look into "trendy urban" territory with a midcalf pencil skirt and knit shirt combo. Select a simple pencil skirt with a tailored silhouette and add detail through fabrics, such as gray/tan tweed or black/white floral. Slip on a fitted knit shirt with decorative detail, such as lace cuffs and a beaded neckline. Stick with tops that follow your curves and resemble a fancy light sweater. Go with knee-length boots to keep your look totally urban or slip on loafer pumps to add a retro touch.
Full Skirt and Top
A full skirt and cute top is always an easy stand-by outfit for any semi-formal fashion crisis. Keep the skirt hem about knee-length. Opt for a patterned skirt with some movement and folds, as a straight skirt may come off too "office" looking. Pair it with a stylish short-sleeve sweater, sateen wrap-around top or flirty tank top with sheer ribbon trim. Select low-heel sandals, simple pumps or "Mary Jane" heels to preserve that hint of formality.
