What to Wear When You Have a Fancy Event After Work

Shop the look: 1. & Other Stories necklace, $45; stories.com 2. J. Crew turtleneck, $40; jcrew.com 3. Helmut Lang top, $320; net-a-porter.com 4. Salvatore Ferragamo clutch, $750; shopbop.com 5. Acne Studios sandals, $250; theoutnet.com 6. Proenza Schouler skirt, $1,190; theline.com

The only thing more stressful than figuring out what to wear to your 9-to-5 job is piecing together an outfit that works for the office and a fancy affair you're obligated to attend (it's why the holiday season is the most anxiety-ridden time of the year, sartorially speaking). A few pointers: Work within a versatile, easy-to-navigate color scheme, like black and white, so that you can play with mixed prints for the office without compromising polish (we suggest a classic clash, like florals and stripes). Then, once you clock out, take your look to the next level with a chic black tank (to break up the patterns and add structure), a dainty chain-strap purse, and sleek strappy stilettos. Now that that's settled, brush up on your small talk, and you're all set.

—Market by Stephanie Araujo