As we close out 2021 with all of its challenges and blessings, you may find yourself, for the first time in a long time, going to a party! And with every event in life, there is the age-old question, “what am I going to wear?” Here are a few answers to that question that thankfully leave the sweatpants at home.
Since most gatherings will be inside, masked, vaxxed, boosted, or not; you can definitely get away with an NYE outfit that’s not as bulky on the fabrics but big on shine. If you have something metallic or sparkly lurking in your closet, now is the time to take it out for a spin. It’s been a period of juxtapositions for sure, so why not have your outfit reflect that by mixing the glamour with the rugged and pair a metallic mini dress with cowboy boots? Or a turtleneck under a sleeveless sparkly dress and combat boots for something more cold-weather friendly as you travel to the party.
Not so much into a full-on sequined dress? You can still play with shine with a T-shirt, sequin skirt, and knee-high boots. If the T-shirt can be vintage (or vintage-inspired), all the better. Add tights and a coat into the mix for a weather-appropriate look. Or go cozier with an oversized sweater, metallic skirt, and ankle boots to create a look that’s both warm and festive. Another option to dress up this New Year’s and stay warm is with a sequin top, leather pants, and pointed heels. The great thing about sequin tops is that they dress up just about anything, so you can also pair it with jeans or even lounge pants for a comfortable outfit that looks way more polished than it is.
If the prospect of wearing a sparkly bottom or top isn’t for you, then inject only a little shine into your New Year’s Eve ensemble via your shoes. That handy oversized sweater with jeans and a metallic or sparkly shoe is a comfortable yet still festive nod to the season. And sparkle shoes don’t have to be heels; it’s whatever style of shoe catches your fancy. A sequined boot or silver loafer with your favorite jeans and sweater that you already own fit the bill (or should I say foot) and are just as celebratory as a pump.
If you find yourself with outdoor plans, you can’t go wrong and bring a bit of sparkle with a turtleneck dress, statement coat, and crystal jewelry. Not only will this look keep you warm, but with gemstones added to these basics, you can bring a bit of shine to your ensemble. Of course, shine, sparkle, and sequins aren’t the only way to show off your festive spirit. An unexpectedly colorful sweater, like hot pink, lavender, or teal with a matching bottom and opposing colored coat will be in the running for the boldest outfit you’ve worn all year.
Other bold sartorial choices for NYE include a chic one-shoulder top with pants and shoes in a matching hue. That special-occasions dress collecting dust in the back of your closest? It’s time to stop waiting for the perfect event and bust it out. Or go iconic with a velvet jumpsuit, or any jumpsuit, really. Whether black, printed, full length, or cropped, it doesn’t get more party-perfect than a jumpsuit; just be sure to find the style and fit that works for you.
Of course, your New Year’s Eve plans may center around snacks and catching up with your favorite show. You can still “celebrate” in style with a matching knitwear set. A ribbed knit top and bottom will keep you cozy and is a fun alternative to everyday sweats.
Or don your fanciest pajamas. A silky sleep set is chic and provides a bit of glitz to your lowkey NYE, especially if there’s a marabou or feathered trim involved.
Whether you are hitting the town or parading around your living room to say sayonara to 2021, do yourself a favor and dress up. Yes, it may seem frivolous and unimportant, but we all deserve a break from the day-to-day, and who doesn’t love a sparkly party look to feel good in!
