10 New Year's Eve Outfits to Get You in the Countdown Spirit

Leave last year behind in style.

woman wearing sparkly skirt for new year's eve party
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The best New Year's Eve outfits spark joy, no matter if you're celebrating big or hanging at home. For those mustering up the energy to celebrate New Year's Eve with a megawatt look, there's plenty of joy to be found in dressing up for the night and bidding farewell to the past 12 months. But if you're hanging out at home with some cocktails and board games, you can still dress up your everyday outfit with a little extra sparkle. On New Year's Eve, the name of the game is to wear whatever makes you feel your best as you welcome a new year. Ahead, we've pulled together a variety of different looks for whatever you have on the docket for NYE.

1. Bring on the Sequins

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Vanessa Hudgens wearing sparkly dress

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Sequins for New Year's Eve isn't a radical idea, and that's okay—sparkles spark joy, and we're here for that any night of the year. So, whether you're celebrating somewhere chic or at-home virtually, why not raise a glass while clad in shimmering paillettes?

2. A Backless Silhouette

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Turn heads in the most literal sense with a backless dress, top, or jumpsuit. The only tricky part might be finding a bra to wear with your outfit, but not to worry—we have you covered on that front, too, with the best bra brands for comfort and support.

3. Skip The Strappy Heels 

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Contrary to almost every NYE photo you've seen on your Insta feed, strappy heels are not mandatory on Dec. 31. In fact, we prefer to skip toe-baring silhouettes in the cold in favor of cute boots that give us the height we need and allow for cozy wool socks.

4. Chic Pajamas 

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Whether you're ringing in the new year on your couch or hitting the town, a chic pair of pajamas work in both scenarios. A satin, glitter-flecked, or feather-trimmed set is scene-staling, no matter if you accessorize with stilettos or cozy fleece flats.

5. A Sweater and Jeans

A sweater and jeans will do as a New Year's Eve attire for laid-back and casual tastes, especially if you don't have fancy plans. To make this practical look feel extra special, seek out unique details like a puffed shoulder or balloon-sleeve knit, or go for coated denim.

6. A Slip Dress

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A slip dress fits the bill for any occasion, especially if you like the '90s minimalist vibe. Opt for a bold color rather than the standard LBD for standout NYE style. Or, an apropos shade of champagne.

7. Statement Earrings

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While most NYE outfits focus on a dress, top, or pair of bottoms, you don't want to neglect your jewelry options. Earrings are the quickest way to jazz up any Dec. 31 look, especially a lustrous pair with that glass of champagne.

8. Leather Instead of Sequins

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Swap your sequins for an unexpected leather look to entirely turn heads on New Year's Eve. Whether you go with a leather top, dress, pants, or jumpsuit, you'll own the night while looking super sleek.

9. An Unforgettable Coat 

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Warmth is critical on NYE. So, throw all your effort into an outfit rooted in statement outerwear done in a vibrant hue, detailed with embellishments, or covered in cozy faux-fur.

10. A Silky Something

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Slip into a satin or silk piece for a feeling of luxury—everything from dresses to jumpsuits will feel comfy like pajamas with the dialed-up effect you crave for that midnight snap.

Marina Liao
Fashion Editor

Marina Liao is the former fashion news editor at MarieClaire.com, where she covered celebrity style (from Meghan Markle to Katie Holmes), fashion trends, and shopping advice, plus conducted original interviews with industry insiders. She's also had many opportunities to write content in other areas such as beauty, food, tech, and even home. Her previous fashion stints include POPSUGAR and Cosmopolitan.