New Year's Eve is the one night when there is no such thing as too much sparkle. Whether you are counting down at a friend's house or toasting at a gala, here is how to choose a NYE dress you will love long after midnight.
Sparkle and metallics
Sequins, glitter, lamé and metallic satin are made for NYE. All-over sequins feel the most festive, while a liquid satin in silver or gold is a sleek, modern alternative. If full sparkle is not your thing, look for sequin trims, a shimmering neckline or a metallic belt. Read our tips on how to style a sequin dress to keep the look balanced.
Mini or maxi for NYE?
A sparkly mini dress is the classic New Year's Eve choice: it is fun, easy to dance in and pairs well with heels or boots. Choose a maxi dress for a formal dinner, a gala or a black-tie party, and a midi if you want something in between. Not sure? Our mini, midi or maxi guide explains which length works where.
Colours that ring in the new year
- Black is timeless and lets metallic accessories shine.
- Gold and champagne feel celebratory and warm under party lights.
- Silver looks icy and glamorous, perfect for winter.
- Red is bold, festive and confident.
Staying warm
In much of the world, NYE means cold weather. Layer a long wool coat, a faux-fur jacket or an oversized blazer over your dress. Sheer black tights look chic with a mini, and a pashmina is easy to drape on for the walk to the fireworks. If you will be outside at midnight, choose long sleeves or a dress with a matching jacket.
Shoes you can dance in
You will probably be on your feet for hours. Block heels, platform sandals and low kitten heels are more comfortable than stilettos. Ankle boots look great with a sequin mini, and a pair of foldable flats in your bag will save you at 2am.
House party vs gala
For a house party, keep it relaxed but sparkly: a sequin mini or a metallic two-piece set with boots and minimal jewellery. For a gala, go floor-length with satin or embellishment, add statement earrings, an elegant clutch and polished hair. Our black-tie guide covers formal events in more detail.
Order your outfit with time to spare so you can try it on with your shoes, and check the size guide on each product page: if you are between two sizes, choose the larger one.
