Here’s how to style your New Year’s Eve celebration, whether staying in or going out.
Bidding farewell to 2024 and preparing for 2025 raises many questions, the most pressing of which is: What should I wear on New Year’s Eve?
New Year’s Eve trends radiate glamour and individuality, from sequins to velvet, metallics to classic tailoring. However, celebrity fashion stylists have the perfect solution if you don’t like dressing up.
Whether attending an elegant soirée or enjoying festive fireworks outdoors, here’s your ultimate guide to stunning New Year’s style, regardless of age or the occasion.
How to layer if you’re heading out
Whether alcohol is involved or not, you’ll feel the cold if you celebrate New Year’s Eve outdoors, so it’s essential to layer smartly.
“Balance warm, insulating base layers with stylish, tailored outerwear,” says White Coco co-founder Sally Boddington. “Add interest with sparkling or faux-fur accessories, and when it comes to footwear, over-the-knee boots are always a great choice.”
If you aim for a more laid-back approach, fashion designer and podcaster Amanda Wakeley OBE emphasizes warmth and practicality. “There are numerous chic thermals and HeatTech products available – Uniqlo has an excellent selection.”
“Layer up and remember that we lose heat the quickest from our heads, so wear a hat. Add gloves, a large, blanket-like scarf, and even hand warmer sachets for extra warmth.”
Choose easily removable layers for style; use accessories and rich fabrics.
Day to night
Some people may be celebrating New Year’s twice and need an outfit that easily transitions from day to night.
This all comes down to the details. “For a more casual look, I love mixing high and low,” says Wakeley. For example, I’d wear a satin maxi skirt with a cashmere sweater and chunky boots.” Pair a stylish top with extra shoes for any occasion.
Designer Nadine Merabi credits the fabric: “A rich fabric, such as my Bouclé-Tweed collection, can be teamed with killer heels or equally dressed down with a pair of brogues.”
Bold and brilliant
New Year’s Eve is the perfect opportunity for your fashion to be unapologetically bold and glamorous.
“It’s going to be a very sparkly New Year’s Eve—sequins are everywhere in every form,” says Wakeley. “There’s no better source of sequin style inspiration than cosmetics queen Trinny Woodall; she looks both chic and effortless while embracing a bit of glitter.”
If sequins aren’t your style, Boddington suggests that velvet and satin are stunning options. “Gold lurex dresses, velvet wide pantsuits, and satin halter necks are styles that can be easily adapted for different age groups.”
“By playing with the layering and combinations of individual pieces, these trends can be worn by anyone,” says Boddington.
Richly chic
Merabi recommends mixing textures and choosing timeless classics to subtly reference the latest dazzling trends. “A metallic midi or maxi dress in a softer hue, such as champagne or rose gold, paired with a tailored jacket or shawl, can create a refined yet festive look.”
For Wakeley, “Dressing to feel like the best version of ourselves while playing to our strengths is essential. Beautiful tailoring is a timeless choice, regardless of age.”
From simple blouses with embellished cuffs to velvet trousers with a metallic belt, mixing bold styles with understated accents is an easy way to elevate your New Year’s Eve attire.
As Merabi states, it’s essential to have fun and be confident. Wear what makes you feel fabulous as you welcome the new year!
