There are few wardrobe issues more pressing right now than what to wear to the office Christmas party. And there are few places more congested than the women’s loos an hour before that party. Armed with industrial-sized cans of hairspray and sacks full of make-up, the womenfolk pile in and, en masse, peel off tights, pull on heels, squeeze into crumpled party dresses and get ready for the evening ahead.
But for those times when there is just not enough mirror to go around, salvation is to be found in the 18-hour dress. This clever frock will see you happily through from the first morning espresso to the last glass of freebie fizz.
But while this may seem like a mythical beast, it isn’t impossible to find. Follow the golden rules: keep it daytime-friendly — no one wants to be frocking up in their party gear at 7am, a sharp collar, sleeves and mid-thigh and lower hemline all do the trick. And while an LBD may seem like a safe bet, an interesting print or bright shade will make you feel like less of a bore come 6pm. Then you can dust off the heels from under your desk and you’re good to go. Get ready to feel smug (and look hot).
