Dear BX,

I have several holiday parties coming up already, and I face the same problem every year.  How do I wear something that is fancy enough for a night-time soiree without looking entirely too overdressed at work?  I have quite a commute, so going home to change isn’t an option.  I just don’t want to look like a sparkly mess during the daytime. HELP!

-Amy Oxford

Amy,

What a good question.

The easiest way to transition from the office to an evening holiday party is by wearing a relatively “plain” outfit and jazzing it up with bold accessories at night. And don’t worry, by “plain” we don’t mean boring. Instead, we mean staple wardrobe pieces, such as a little black dress or a nice trouser and classic top that can be a relatively blank canvas for any scenario.  All you need to do is carry a change of shoes and jewelry in your purse and voila, a few quick alterations, and you have transformed from the board room to the downtown lounge.

We’ve put together two example outfits below that would work perfectly for such a situation. So no need to fear dear Amy, you will be able to wow at work and the party without looking like a hot sparkly mess either.

Look 1: The LBD

Staple Item

Dress – Gap

Work

Jacket – Fred Flare, Tights – Fig Leaves , Wedges – Shoe Box

To transform this funky-fun professional look into a masterpiece for the night, all you need to do is switch your shoes, throw on some accessories before you leave work and check your blazer at the door. Less than a minute of changing and voila! A whole new you.

Party

Pumps – Zappos, Ring – Forever21, Earrings – Piperlime

Look 2: The Classic Trouser

Staple Items

Trousers – New York & Co., Top – Banana Republic, Shoes - Zappos

Work

Necklace – J.Crew, Sweater – Urban Outfitters

To transition this look, you only need to swap out your sweater and pearls to a sequined vest and gold multi-chain necklace.

Party

Necklace – ShopBop, Vest – Express