I Love This $51 Party Dress So Much, I'm Already Rewearing It to Work

POPSUGAR Photography | Matthew Kelly
POPSUGAR Photography | Matthew Kelly
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When I'm shopping for an occasion dress like a pretty party style for the holidays, nine times out of 10, I immediately think about how I can rewear it to the office. Does that make me sound like a slave to my job? Maybe! But some of my best outfits are those I wear to work. So I like to know that when I'm buying a new dress, it's versatile enough to be styled in a professional matter.

Now, I know what you're thinking. "Why is she rambling about outfit repeating?" Easy! To inspire you to rethink all the party dresses you've no doubt purchased this holiday season (though I'm well-aware that my boss will read this and A-OK with her noting my dedication to my job and maintaining a stylish office wardrobe, wink wink).

One of my favorite party dresses of the season thus far? This Smocked Bodice Midi Dress ($51, originally $68) from our very own POPSUGAR collection at Kohl's. Cute, right?! While perfectly festive in a beautiful shade of teal, this dress has a number of attributes that make it perfect for work.

First, the midi length, my absolute favorite no matter the day, season, or occasion. It's super polished for the office whether worn on its own or layered with a blazer. Second, the gentle puff sleeves. I'm obsessed with this trend, and it's all but slowing down for Spring. Plus, I'm always seeking out unique details to make my office looks a little more fashion forward, and these sleeves do exactly that. Third, the color. I tend toward neutrals most of the time, but this rich shade of green feels more than just tolerable. It's actually so versatile, pairing well with my go-to hues like gray, tan, and black.

With my adoration for this POPSUGAR Smocked Bodice Midi Dress clearly stated, ahead, see how I styled the party-perfect number for a day at the office. Then, to re-create my look on your own, shop my outfit head to toe, including my exact items as well as some affordable alternatives to please every budget.

How to Wear a Party Dress at Work
POPSUGAR Photography | Matthew Kelly

How to Wear a Party Dress at Work

The easiest way to add instant polish to a dress? A blazer! And this pinstripe style is an unexpected way to temper the polka-dot print at work.

How to Wear a Party Dress at Work
POPSUGAR Photography | Matthew Kelly

How to Wear a Party Dress at Work

Classic accessories always bring polish to a playful dress. Here, I opted for a top-handle bag and black knee-high boots.

How to Wear a Party Dress at Work
POPSUGAR Photography | Matthew Kelly

How to Wear a Party Dress at Work

I completed my look with delicate rings and timeless gold hoops.

How to Wear a Party Dress at Work
POPSUGAR Photography | Matthew Kelly

How to Wear a Party Dress at Work

To reveal a waistline beneath my blazer and dress, I cinched my look with a sleek black belt in faux croc.

How to Wear a Party Dress at Work
POPSUGAR Photography | Matthew Kelly

How to Wear a Party Dress at Work

If you're going straight from work to a holiday party, simply shed your blazer and swap out your hoops for a pair of glittering earrings!