Stumped on how to walk the fine line between hot and professional? Trust me, it is possible. Sometimes all you need is a little inspiration…

And inspiration has arrived.

I recently went shopping with my best girls to try and find some holiday goodness. We happened to be looking for cocktail attire for an upcoming corporate holiday party, but obviously the dress code varies depending on the event you are attending, so you might be looking for something different. Here are three different looks to get you started: Casual, Cocktail, and Black Tie.

For work functions I try to stick to this general rule: The dress should make me feel awesome, but not reveal too much. Simplicity with a little flash is key. Happy hunting!

Casual:

Casual but chic, demure but sexy, this dress is a great pick for a casual holiday party. The volume detracts from the body hugging qualities making it completely wearable (and I’m betting comfortable!) Pair with tights and brown riding boots for a holiday look that’s so “right now.”

• Bebe Turtleneck Sweater Dress with Dolman Sleeves in “golden glow”, www.bebe.com, $98
• Naturalizer Sidney Riding Boot, www.piperlime.com, $119

More looks after the jump!

Cocktail:

While red isn’t the most original color for a holiday party dress, I really like the fluidity and the slight sweetheart neckline. To balance out the sexy neckline, try pairing the dress with opaque tights and a pair of sky high t-strap heels. Also looks great with long drop or chandelier earrings.

• Foley + Corinna Silk Jersey Cocktail Dress, www.shopbop.com, $473
• Oh Deer! Jamocha Heel, www.piperlime.com, $115
• Jet Beaded Dual Chain Earrings, www.1928.com, $22

Black Tie:

So I went with red (again) but the color wasn’t what spoke to me for this dress - it was the price tag, and the style…but mostly the price tag. The one-shoulder look is completely elegant. Paired with a gold chain link bracelet, this outfit is the ultimate in sophistication.

• Alex Evenings One Shoulder Gown, www.nordstrom.com, $118
• J. Crew Scrolled Link Bracelet, www.jcrew.com, $68