The festivities of Christmas might be over, but we’re not done celebrating just yet. In this ‘twixmas’ period, between finishing off the mince pies and sifting through boxes of Quality Street to find the last chocolate triangle, our attention turns to the bookend of December and our last moment of revelry before January sets in: New Year’s Eve.
The evening of the 31st looks different for everyone — whether you’re travelling back to the city to celebrate in excess, enjoying a quieter night with your family at the local pub or hosting friends for a Hogmanay dinner party, the one thing that unites us all is the endeavour for an excellent NYE outfit.
At no other time of year is it as acceptable to wear sequins, feathers and faux fur as it is on the 31st. It’s an evening for the pursuit of sartorial hedonism, serving as one final palette cleanser before we start the year anew and a chance to embrace the most fanciful facets of fashion.
So, if you’re after some fantastical yet elegant for inspiration for the big night, look no further than our guide to what to wear this New Year’s Eve, from sumptuous velvet mini dresses to sequin midi skirts and cosy, sophisticated knits.
The little black dress
You can never go wrong with a little black dress on NYE. This crystal-embellished black mini dress by Self-Portrait is an excellent choice for dancing away the evening, while the sleek black accessories and sharply structured wool coat imbue the look with sophistication.
Self-Portrait crystal-embellished velvet minidress
Missoma molten snow small hoop earrings
Khaite Simona shoulder bag
Bottega Veneta leather sandals
Rohé double-breasted coat
Now 20% Off
Gilded glamour
Heading to a more formal evening occasion? This resplendent gold beaded gown from Clio Peppiatt — complete with feather-trimmed sleeve cuffs, of course — will ensure heads turn when you enter the room. Emerald tones pair beautifully with the gold, as demonstrated by this Dries Van Noten velvet wrapped clutch bag and statement earrings from Saint Laurent, which break up the layers of gold with a commanding green jewel.
Clio Peppiatt Mae feather-trimmed beaded gown
Saint Laurent Cabochon clip-on stud earrings
Dries Van Noten pleated velvet clutch
Gucci horsebit metallic leather sandals
Nour Hammour Evita shearling coat
Cosy chic
Low-key plans on the horizon for the 31st? This richly-hued ensemble is comfortable without compromising on elegance; the burgundy knitted cardigan from Bottega Veneta is right on trend for winter, with the gold knotted buttons added an instant elevation to the classic knit. Accessorising with matching organic-shaped jewellery and gold-toned hardware on your shoes and bag will enhance the cohesive ensemble — and who can resist this sweet plaid east-west bag from Miu Miu as the final touch?
Bottega Veneta knot bouclé cardigan
Monica Vinader Deia domed ring stack
Now 25% Off
Tod’s Barretta leather slingback flats
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Beau plaid and leather bag
Feathered fancy
Sequins are the equivalent of a white T-shirt come New Year’s Eve: a sartorial staple. Opt for a shimmering silver midi skirt and a statement knit over the top which balances warmth (much needed) with whimsical charm. Bring in a couple of sleek black accessories to ground the look, finishing with a pair of exquisite pearl baroque earrings like these from Laura Vann.
Mango knitted sweater with feathers
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Rotate silver sequinned midi skirt
Valentino Garavani Daisy jewel Mary Janes
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Laura Vann 18ct Bella baroque pearl drop earrings
Rich accents
Last minute plans arisen for the 31st? This outfit repurposes pieces you’re likely to already have in your winter wardrobe, with a few additional elements. A pair of wide-leg high-rise jeans and an oversized structured blazer provide the foundations — simply add in an evening top to break up the casual vibe, a fun statement bag and a selection of classic jewellery, and you’re ready for anything the night might bring.
The Sei draped silk charmeuse bustier
Heavenly London gold nox necklace
Agolde Dame high-rise wide-leg jeans
Now 20% Off
Reformation Aurora shoulder bag
Silky separates
Keep things understated and elegant with a silky halter neck top and mini skirt. This ivory-hued halter-neck top from Ralph Lauren is timelessly refined, while the square-toed knee high boots add a modern polish; throw over a faux fur jacket and add a pair of dangling pearl and crystal earrings for a final touch of opulence.
Ralph Lauren Chilton silk charmeuse top
Lisa Yang silk-satin mini skirt
Proenza Schouler leather knee-high boots
Now 30% Off
Reiss Laila faux fur coat
Now 43% Off
