Can't quite figure out what to wear to your upcoming staff night out? With Christmas just around the corner, most employers have come up with some idea of how to mark the end of the year and revel in the festive season. In most cases, it's a party that starts with a meal and ends on the dancefloor, at a karaoke bar or a chip shop late at night...

With such a potentially jam-packed agenda, it's important to choose your outfit well, for practical reasons such as comfort, warmth and stain potential.

Be sure to find out as much as you can about the plans and the dress code. You don't want to risk showing up underdressed or overdressed, or wearing the same outfit as a colleague. Therefore communication is also a must. While this is easier said than done when it comes to big companies, at least make sure to coordinate outfits among those you work closest with.

Menswear

If you're not headed to an overly formal venue, but rather a smart casual affair, choose a pair of chinos in a subdued block colour like grey, khaki, clay or navy. Team these with a crisp, button front shirt in either a sheer colour or a classic pattern such as checks or polka dots. Accessorise with vintage pieces: a leather belt and brogues. Top off the smart casual look with either a cardigan or a smart blazer, depending on the venue.

Is a more formal shindig on the cards? In this case you may indeed have to opt for a suit, but why not jazz things up a bit by opting for a less conventional colour than black or grey? Navy, dark green and dark red can look really effective teamed with a simple shirt and leather shoes. Alternatively, if you feel that might be too much of a bold statement, choose trousers and a jacket in two different tones.

Womenswear

There is no "just wear a suit" option for women so you have to be a bit more creative with your outfits.

One of the most practical types of party dresses is the t-shirt dress. It's a trendy and very comfortable piece that can simply be thrown over a pair of opaque tights or leggings and accessorised with heels or flats according to the venue and planned activities. For warmth, throw on a fitted blazer in a seasonal colour like dark red, dark green or deep blue. Choose a dress with detail like sequins, metallic thread or lace so you don't have to go overboard with jewellery.

These days, it's also perfectly acceptable to wear a pair of trousers. Ideally, black or magnolia are the way to go. Tight fitting or wide leg styles are both bang on trend. Team with simple tops in statement fabrics such as silk or velvet.