Let’s be honest here: Not all of us will be going out this New Year’s Eve. After lockdown left us with no option but to stay in we got accustomed to scaling back on outings, and although this year allows us a return to the full scale New Year Eve party, not all of us want to go out and about. There’s something great about getting dressed up to stay in, and spending the night with your nearest and dearest in your own home is even better than ever. No bar queues, no £££ tickets, and no waiting for a cab home. So, if you are between ideas, there are a lot of perks to choosing to be propped up in your kitchen or on the sofa instead of a busy soirée.
NYE feels like that last opportunity to get dressed up in something sparkly and festive. I appreciate this sounds rather doom and gloom, but I don’t mean it to. For starters, sequins aren’t just for Christmas (wear them in the summer, people!), and who says you can’t dress up for your sofa? This year, I may even incorporate sequins in my plans to watch the fireworks, stranger things have happened.
There are other options out there of course, which is why I’ve turned to my favourite fashion people on Instagram to show us how it’s done. There are outfits that include head-to-toe sequins, and the pared-back looks that will suit minimalist tastes. There’s a classic LBD, or the feathered trimmed PJs that make any evening feel more eventful. All you really need to know is that each and every one of the below looks can be worn with slippers or heels, the choice is yours. So, keep scrolling for all of my favourite New Year’s Eve outfit ideas for every personality and every type of plan. See you in 2023!
Style Notes: Why not wear head-to-toe shimmer and shine to see in the New Year in style? From sequin co-ords to slip dresses, however you choose to factor in luxe fabrics and statement accessories, you can wear this combination to just about any type of event and not feel out of place.
I’m willing to argue my case–a puff sleeved midi dress might just be the most universally flattering silhouette out there.
Prada aren’t just specialists in perfect party shoes, there’s bags too.
Brave the cold in a pair of subtly sparkling tights.
A retro, mirror platform with a wearable heel height? Sign me up.
Style Notes: Want to be smart on NYE but don’t want it to look corporate? Break up stuffy tailoring with a sequin skirt or trousers. It’s the perfect outfit for spending the evening entertaining, just take off the jacket when you’re ready to dance around to Jools Holland’s Annual Hootenanny.
Size up for a slightly slouchier and cooler fit from this double breasted blazer.
The slim leg and split hem will do wonders for creating the illusion of a longer leg. Just add a barely there sandal.
Party season deserves special shoes, and nothing says “dressed up” quite like a rhinestone sandal.
Style Notes: It’s not all about sequins and bright colours. You can just as easily get into the “party on the sofa” mood by wearing a satin slip skirt or dress, and your favourite chunky knit. Wear to dinner, be home by 10, and watch the fireworks from the comfort of your own home. Understated elegance.
The collar makes this humble cardigan feel dressy enough to wear with jeans and a loafer too.
Every wardrobe has a satin slip skirt right? If you don’t, allow me to introduce you to the piece you’ll wear with everything on rotation.
Now that’s a ballet pump with a little extra je ne sais quoi.
Style Notes: Arguably the most practical of outfits on NYE, hibernators will love that fancy pyjamas allow for the smoothest transition from sofa to bed. Wear with an easy, slip-on flat and know that you had a comfortable NYE, no matter the weather.
Thanks to Sleeper, we thinking of the myriad of ways we’ll be wearing PJs for the foreseeable.
An evening-shoe-meets-casual-mule for all of the nights that a skyscraper heel just isn’t the vibe.
My going out plans? Cancelled them. Just needed an excuse to relax in this robe.
Style Notes: Juggling a few invitations and can’t decide which to commit to? If you’re doing the rounds and seeing just about everyone in your social circle, or just end up trading in your plans for a cosy night in after a sudden change of heart, you’ll need a look that’s quick to put together and works for any scenario. Enter the all-black look. An under the radar outfit that you can easily spice up with the addition of some statement shoes. (And a bright red lipstick to really give it oomph).
There’s something about a fluffy, mohair knit that feels surprisingly decadent.
The micro mini sure does have staying power, but you’ll need to wear it with a chunky knit to pull it off in icy conditions.
I haven’t stopped thinking about these Cinderella boots since I first saw them, and not only do they look good, but profits of sales will go to SmartWorks charity too.
The ultimate highly pigmented, matte red lipstick.
Style Notes: As much as I have a soft spot for dressing up in the kind of glam we only allow ourselves three times a year (birthdays, Christmas, and NYE), there’s something to be said about getting wrapped up and heading to the local park for an evening of fireworks (and preferably mulled wine too). Don’t forget insulating layers, a fluffy coat and a sturdy flat boot too.
If there’s one animal print you can rely on and never goes out of style, it’s leopard print.
I’ve lived on the reliable formula of turtleneck + leggings + boots for the last 2 months, and I don’t plan on stopping now.
A slightly ribbed, high-waisted legging perfect for layering up under a tall boot.
Sure, at Who What Wear we love a glossy, high heeled knee-high boot, but there are sensible flats that rank just as highly.
Style Notes: The ultimate unbeaten classic. If you want to make this versatile staple feel a little livelier for NYE, add bold matching accessories and fine jewellery.
Between the ruched detail, high split, and satin finish, it’s difficult to find something not to love about this dress.
Shoes don’t come more Instagrammable than Mach & Mach.
You’re going to need a clutch big enough for all of your essentials–enter the Reiss Camille.
Style Notes: Whether the night before or morning after, if you’re venturing out in the cold be sure to reach for a substantial coat. ARKET puffer coats are always our first choice when pried away from our duvets, and adding a simple pair of jeans and flat shoes is an easy formula to replicate whenever you’re getting ready in a hurry.
This oversized down coat is an online exclusive. so you won’t be able to get your hands on it in store.
Just when I thought I already had an extensive knitwear collection I came across this perfect camel cardi. One more won’t hurt…
H&M’s vintage style jeans go with everything from a white tee to an embellished evening top.
I saw Alexa Chung in velvet ballet flats, now I want velvet ballet flats.
Is there any cosy outfit that a check scarf can’t significantly improve?
