Editor-approved New Year's Eve outfits, whether you're going fancy and formal or for full-on frolics
December's arrival means that planning festive ensembles - namely Christmas party dresses and New Year's Eve outfits - is now officially a weekly task. The search for sparkly heels, sequin tops and OTT diamante jewellery is on, and, frankly, we couldn't be happier. Christmas, we've missed you.
Finding the right outfit multiple times over is easier said than done, though - especially during that period between December 25th and NYE (i.e. Betwixtmas).
It's a funny sort of time; everything suddenly seems quieter and there's nothing to do except eat chocolates, watch Christmas films and remain in that blissfully ignorant stage. The last thing you want to think about is another night on the tiles, but, alas, as soon as we polish off the last of the pigs in blankets it'll be time to fill up our glasses again and cheers to the New Year (if there's any fizz left).
So before you reach said ‘what day of the week is it?’ stage, let's put some thought into the much-anticipated (but often ill-prepared) NYE wardrobe.
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Whether you're going to a black tie event or for a romantic dinner, clubbing with your wildest pals or to a family party, New Year's Eve is a real excuse to dress up. It signals the need to dig out your favourite party outfit (or buy an entirely new one for the occasion), get glam and see in the good vibes for the year ahead.
Think: the sparkliest separates you own layered with luxe fabrics (like velvet and/or silk). Chic-but-warm is the key to successful New Year's Eve outfits, as - what with it being December - it's bound to be freezing. If you're getting your legs out in a mini dress or mini skirt, wear something with long sleeves and visa versa. The less skin on show, the more likely you'll make it to midnight without turning purple.
How should you dress for New Year's Eve?
You can never be over dressed when it comes to Black Tie events, not least when its New Year's too. We recommend a slinky sequin dress that'll twinkle under the lights, a pair of killer heels for height and matching, wishlist accessories.
Save when you shop for your New Year's Eve outfit this year with these Net-A-Porter discount codes at checkout.
Leave your trusty blazer dress for a more formal occasion and slip into a pair of slim-fit mom jeans and a shimmery crop top if you're headed to a house party for the countdown. Top tip: wear some low heels so your feet don't hurt while you mingle.
Save when you shop for your New Year's Eve outfit this year with these H&M discount codes at checkout.
A simple LBD (long black dress, in this case) and some new in sparkly accessories creates the perfect outfit for a family gathering this NYE. Not too dressy where your know-it-all relative makes a comment, but statement enough to have you feeling confident.
Forget the trending cut out bodycon dresses we used to shimmy into before a night out on the town, New Year's calls for something a bit more special. This sequin mini skirt from Nadine Merabi is one of the brand's bestsellers, and you can see why. Sure, you could dress it down with a short sleeve T-shirt and trainers if you're seeking a more casual look, but we think a bodysuit with an off-the-shoulder neckline is a spot on partywear ensemble.
Save when you shop for your New Year's Eve outfit this year with these Accessorize discount codes at checkout.
Booked in for a candlelit dinner with your other half? That surely calls for a corset-inspired top (handy as you probably won't need a bra beneath it) and some faux leather or wide leg trousers, no? That cowl neck cami slip dress or that halterneck jumpsuit you already have in your wardrobe will of course work, too, but special occasions sometimes call for newness.
Save when you shop for your New Year's Eve outfit this year with these Harvey Nichols discount codes at checkout.
Got more than just New Year's Eve dresses and outfits to look for? We've got you covered. There's winter wedding guest dresses to browse (and bridesmaid dresses, if you've been promoted to stand by her side). Need some layers to keep warm? Check out these patterned tights that'll look chefs kiss under any frock, as well as the best women's scarves to drape around you. If you fancy staying in and getting cosy this year, we've got loads of pyjamas/nightwear, loungewear, co-ords, sweatshirts/jumpers and knitwear/cardigans to wrap up in.
For more from GLAMOUR UK's Commerce Writer Georgia Trodd, follow her on Instagram @georgiatrodd.