Finding an outfit to wear when you’re hosting a party isn’t always easy and it can sometimes be nerve-wracking! But no need to panic – Mena is here with a list of stylish outfit ideas to help us! Mena is a super chic stylist (owner of Style Me Mena) and an expert in all things fashion.

She’s sharing a list of DOs and DON’Ts and 5 style recommendations to help us look our best when hosting!

Throwing together a party can be stressful. Having your looks planned ahead will make you feel calm, confident and gorgeous when the doorbell rings. So behold my fellow party girls, I’m here for you with 8 simple tips and 5 recommendations for what to wear when you host your fabulous party.

Let’s make getting dressed for your own party a snap!

Outfit Do’s and Don’ts When Hosting Your Party

DO’s

1. DO: wear what makes you feel comfortable. Don’t wear a pair of super tight unforgiving jeans that will make you stop breathing when you bend down to take something out of the oven, a top that cuts you under the arms and makes you feel self conscious from the party hostess sweat rings.  Or shoes that have you in pain, suffering and cringing as you hobble to the door to greet your guests.( if you allow shoes in your home)
2. DO : prevent fashion panic: Carve out at least 20 minutes to pick out, try on, iron and prep your clothes the day before while you’re still relaxed. This includes hair, makeup, shoes, jewelry. Style yourself from head to toe and then stow away for the next day.
3. DO: wear something that won’t get in your way: When picking an outfit, consider time of day, weather, and what you will be doing at the party: Are you cooking, making cocktails, are you inside, outside, schlepping up and down stairs?  Are those flowing sleeves safe over the stove? Will those shoes slip running around on the hardwood floor?  Are you going to be fussing with the turtle neck of that dress?
4. DO: wear something that feels special: a festive color, something sparkly, dangly earrings, statement necklace, something new. A splash of rosy blush, warm cheek shimmer, glimmer of gloss, luscious lashes –  that little extra touch does wonders for a girl’s self confidence.
5. DO: give your guests a heads up about the party attire too.  You’ll feel more comfortable not being the only one decked out and in this age of Instagram your photos will turn out better too: e.g. “Hi Mara, just want you to feel comfortable and let you know that the dinner party is super relaxed tonight so feel free to be casual” “Hi everyone, in light of the holiday we’re asking everyone to dress to impress for a festive occasion”

DON’TS

1. DON’T: wear something precious: If someone knocks over a glass of red wine, sauce drops on your dress, you get some spills on your shoes – make sure it won’t ruin your night. Unless you have yourself covered with caterers, help in the kitchen and a dishwasher, don’t wear your most expensive dress, blouse, shoes, pants.  Opt for materials that are easily cleaned and or replaceable.  Faux leather jeans can be wiped instantly with a cloth, they’re super chic, can be dressed up or down – and no one will know they’re not real.
2. DON’T: mistake sloppy for casual: how you dress is a direct reflection of how you feel.  Even if you’re not ‘feeling’ it, put on something that you look fabulous in – you’ll be surprised how looking good can make you feel good.
3. When choosing an outfit DON’T let your choice make you into someone or something you’re not. You will lose your authenticity. The best piece of fashion advice I got a long time ago is:  ‘you wear the clothes, don’t let them wear you‘. Style yourself to enhance who you already are.  There is nothing more chic than a woman who is comfortable in her own skin and doesn’t try too hard. Wear what lets your own beauty shine through and you will indeed be beautiful.

5 Outfit Ideas for Feeling Fabulous!

A loose blouse with three-quarter sleeves

A top that isn’t weighed down with embellishment and is loose enough that air is allowed in will help keep you from overheating while cooking in the kitchen. Avoid long sleeves for they may end up in the food you are preparing. That means no bell or poet sleeves with an overhang around the wrists.

If you opt for a sweater instead, wear one that is a fine light knit with a slim fit around the wrist and volume around the shoulders-like a puff sleeve! 

You can style this up with a pencil skirt or slim cut pants in a variety of textures or patterns-think leather, plaid, suede, sequins, or even velvet.

Shift or tunic style dresses

Not only are these styles of dresses classics, but they also allow for mobility and can be dressed up or down. Throw on before your guests arrive, and when things calm down, add a bit of shine such as a metallic swing jacket or a bejeweled cardigan.

Wear hosiery that adds interest to your dress-especially if it’s a solid piece; try a polka dot, lace or chevron print!

Knit sets

Comfy, cozy and chic! Who doesn’t want that when hosting a party? Knit sets are an investment; wear them together or separately-a sweater skirt and matching slim cut sweater will give you enough movement to hustle while you push up those sleeves to get busy…and still look sleek and stylish!

The Jumpsuit

 My favorite piece is a jumpsuit. If the thought of a jumpsuit feels like too much work (bathroom breaks take a bit longer) then choose billowy pants. Both these styles can be chosen with an elasticized (the ultimate in comfy) back or front that you can tie with a drawstring. Pair with some sparkly jewels, and you’re set to go.

Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize

Less is more when picking the right accessories for your look. Skip the cocktail rings and layered bracelets if you will still be cooking when guests arrive. An embellished necklace or earrings make quite the statement and add some holiday bling.

Now you’re ready to be the life of the party and bring out the best in you. The bottom line is when you’re comfortable and you feel good, and everyone’s in for a good time. 

Need help figuring out the difference between business casual and smart casual? Check out Mena’s article on Party Dress Codes and her expert fashion advice on what to wear.

And if you’re looking for tips on the items I use to make life easier when gathering with friends and family – check out my free guide to hosting essentials.   

Joyful Hostess Tip: follow Mena on social media! She’s got loads of great advice, tips and tricks for creating stylish looks. Plus inspo that will have you looking at your wardrobe differently.