
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
Laura Lajiness Kaupke is a freelance writer and editor covering fashion, accessories, fine jewelry, and lifestyle topics, including beauty, home, fitness, and travel. You can see her work across various outlets, including VOGUE, Harper’s BAZAAR, ELLE, Glamour, Town&Country, InStyle, Esquire, Women’s Health, Brides, Refinery 29, Coveteur, The Zoe Report, Popsugar, Byrdie, WWD, Footwear News, Well+Good, The Editorialist, among other titles and brands. Laura has worked in the fashion industry for over 11 years and held senior fashion editor positions at Popsugar and The Zoe Report, with additional experience as a copywriter and fashion publicist.
-
Lip Plumpers for Fuller, More Voluminous Lips
No needles necessary.
By Samantha Holender
-
Vera Wang Has Her Own Barbie Now
Wang says the doll she designed "represents a strong, modern and edgy woman."
By Gabrielle Ulubay
-
'Bachelor in Paradise' 2022: Everything We Know
There's a lot going on when it comes to 'Bachelor in Paradise' this year—but we probably won't get Lil Jon back.
By Jenny Hollander
-
Who Is Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's Fiancé Riley Roberts?
AOC's husband-to-be is an "easygoing redhead" who lives with her in D.C.
By Katherine J Igoe
-
The Cannes Film Festival 2022: The Best Red Carpet Looks
Here's what everyone wore for the festival's 75th year.
By Sara Holzman
-
Kim Kardashian Is a Modern-Day Marilyn Monroe at the Met Gala
Kim hit the red carpet in the same dress Marilyn wore to sing "Happy Birthday" to JFK.
By The Editors
-
The Met Gala 2022: The Best Red Carpet Looks
The biggest fashion event of the year is back to its regularly scheduled programming.
By Sara Holzman
-
68 Times the Kardashians Posed Fully Nude and Owned It
And we mean fully nude—as in, not a shred of clothing.
By Bianca Rodriguez
-
Who Is Jonathan Owens, Simone Biles's Fiancé and NFL Player?
"The easiest yes!" Simone wrote about the couple's engagement.
By The Editors
-
Surprise! Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Nick Jonas Are Parents
They welcomed a baby via surrogate.
By Neha Prakash
-
Meghan and Harry Share First Photo of Their Daughter Lilibet Diana
The Sussex's holiday card is here!
By Rachel Epstein