Dressing up at Christmas for a party or office do is as much a part of the season as presents and tinsel. Your choice of outfit is something to consider ahead of any shopping outing, so that you have a clear idea of what you’re looking for.

That way, you’ll avoid the rabbit- in-the-headlight feeling as you desperately dash from shop to shop seeking something special that is just right for you.

If your annual office function is a very formal affair at a plush hotel or special venue then a long, maxi or floor length evening dress will be the most appropriate choice.

If the company has hired a photographer to record people as they arrive, remember to stand sideways on, looking along your shoulder, rather than square to the lens, and take a moment arrange the dress so that it hangs nicely and elegantly.

There’s no need to stick to black. This season the shops have some wonderful colours that catch the eye without being ostentatious, and a careful choice of elegant jewellery will set your outfit off well.

When you’re looking at style remember that sometimes it’s more alluring to cover up than reveal too much flesh, so if you have a slim figure select something that contours the body. With a fuller figure, looser fitting is best, but many designers now offer plus sizes that are sensitively designed.

Less formal affairs such as parties in the office building will allow you to dress more freely, with possibly the archetypal little black dress – although, again, it doesn’t have to be black.

The crucial thing is to dress appropriately for the occasion and to think about how much of an impact you want to make. If you consider yourself the life and soul of the party you’ll feel at your best in something flamboyant, but if you prefer to chat quietly in a corner while sipping the same glass of orange juice all evening then you’re probably going to choose something understated. Wear what you will feel most comfortable in.

Think about your hair, too. Christmas gives you a wonderful opportunity to literally let your hair down, so that colleagues can be wowed by those beautiful locks which you keep tied up for the rest of the year.

Or maybe you could go to town with a different cut or styling especially for the party season.

Choice of bra is also crucial. If you’re wearing something different then you might need to buy one especially. Inappropriate straps or the wrong type of support can ruin even the most expensive dress.

Pay attention to the wording on any invitation you receive. This will often give clear indication of dress code. It’s better to be over-dressed, because it shows respect to your host, while being under-dressed can make you appear slapdash and sloppy, with a couldn’t-care-less attitude.

Another key piece of advice is to shop early. This way you will not only have the widest possible choice but you’ll also avoid buying something that has everyone else’s pawprints all over it after being grabbed from the rack, tried on and then returned.

When shopping, allow yourself plenty of time. Set aside a specific session, and try not to make it a rushed affair at lunch-time.

Wear comfortable shoes, but if possible take with you the shoes you are going to wear with your outfit.