Holiday parties abound. There are office functions. Decked-out fundraisers. Seasonal soirees. New Year's bashes.

You get the invite. You R.S.V.P. Now comes the impossible task of decoding the dress code. Interpreting attire suggestions during the holiday season can be tricky, thanks to clever Pinterest-inspired themes like "Denim to Diamonds" and "Margaritas Under the Mistletoe." As if "festive attire" wasn't confusing enough.

If the season's party invites leave you scratching your head, fret no more. Our holiday-party lookbook has you covered — from a casual night out to a dressed-up affair.

  • Styling by: Tara Murphy, Neon Esquire; and Aimee Blanchette