Work drinks party - what to wear?

[PeppermintCream]

The president of the company that I work for us putting on a small drinks party, the party is to thank my team for their work this year, but more importantly to up our profile for next year.

About 30 people have been invited, it is at his house 6-9pm. Dress code smart casual.

What shall I wear, I'm 5ft 2, size 12, budget up to £100. Please help, I'm going to have to talk to lots of people and need to feel confident and professional.

What you you normally wear to work, PeppermintCream? I was wondering about a "glossier" version of your normal outfit. That way, people will still see your usual professional image, just slightly more glamorous.

I blooming hate smart casual, it's so easy for men and so hard for women. Right answer for drinks would usually be a smart dress but if its smart casual you. Ight be over the top. Depending on weather you could dress it down a bit with boots rather than heels....have you lookd at the Cos thread as there are several dresses there you could make work?

Thanks, I would normally wear a smart dress to work, or trousers and fitted shirt.

I hate smart casual, never quite know what it means. I feel more comfortable in a dress - I'll take a look at the thread you recommend.

Thanks for your replies.

I'd wear a dress with a blazer over it. To me, smart is a suit, formal is a cocktail style dress. So a non-matching dress and blazer might be smart casual?

In my imagination I'm thinking a pale grey dress with a subtle print, plus a navy blazer. Bare legs keep things less formal if you are happy with that, or nude tights. Then maybe ballet flats or wedges?

I agree though, smart causal for ladies is bloody difficult!

Thanks Gradually that's really helpful, and completely doable without needing to buy anything, although I may treat myself to a new navy blazer.

I also have a lovely purple shift dress that I usually wear with a cardigan, but I could wear that with a jacket and pumps?

Something like this?

I've ordered this as it was getting such good reviews!

stab in the dark

Thanks Marbles, I might see if I can try it on, even though I'm quite short, the dress looks a little short (out of my comfort zone) for me.

Don't forget jewellery! Something a bit more eye-catching than usual, perhaps, to show you've made an effort?

Ooh jewellery, my absolute weakness, I rarely mix with the big boss, so I've got a couple of fabulous necklaces which I could wear.

I love this.

sparkly top or <a class="break-all" href="//itwww.coast-stores.com/glasgow-top/tops/coast/fcp-product/2244593980" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">beads with black skinny trouser & heels

Thanks Drama, I really like that dress

beads

Thanks Belinda, think I'm going to stick with a dress, although in tempted by the eagle top...