Every year, the first party that hits is the "Office Party." Like department stores and other mass retailers, companies seem to want to get a head start on the Holiday thing. Not only do they want to pre-empt the chaos of end-of-the-year budgeting, reporting, etc. in the office, but it's infinitely easier to secure a venue that can accommodate the entire Marketing and Accounting departments and whatever stragglers from IT decide to show up.

Your office party is on a Friday night. Fun! It's at that little downtown lounge. Fun! People are carpooling there from the office. Fun?

Oh well, at least you'll look good.

For fetes that involve co-workers, there really isn't a need to go all out, and there are a few "don'ts" to keep in mind, as Anne pointed out. Reserve your energy for the real fun that will come later in the month with your friends. For this, stick with simple and classy, since you boss will be there, after all.

Hair - I am a big fan of the pony tail. In fact, I wear a pony tail to work, to work out, to dine out, and dish with girlfriends. It's the most versatile style, and though there are some who find it a bit pedestrian, remember that this is a work party. Take a cue from Miss Alba and give yourself some volume on top (which will narrow your face), keep it sleek on the sides, and add a sparkling accessory.

Dress - While I love dresses, there is no better time to dress up in a power suit than an office-related party. I love a woman in a feminized tuxedo, but the velvet pantsuit by Arthur S. Levine is just as hot. It's only $198 from Nordstrom, which means you won't cringe when you have to buy a tiny little lace camisole to wear underneath.

Shoes - Even though this is a work party, no need to wear "sensible" shoes. If you're going to have fun with any part of your outfit, the shoes are the place to show some skin. Under your black pantsuit, rock the Gucci Hollywood sandals, $565 at Saks.

Jewelry - You're pretty much covered up everywhere else, so with your hair pulled up in a pony tail, wear something big. Long and dangly like a chandelier style is great, but I love hoops. If you have diamond-studded hoops, lucky you! Otherwise, Neiman Marcus has a suitable CZ fakeout.

Bag - You'll be tempted to throw the strap of your giant laptop bag across your body like you usually do to save your back, but don't do it. Don't even bring your laptop bag, no matter how cute it is! All you need is a tiny little clutch is shiny satin to hold a compact, your Blackberry, and business cards. The Gucci Starlight Evening bag is perfect. It matches you shoes.