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New Year’s Eve outfits are generally synonymous with one thing: sparkle. Whether it’s in the form of sequins, glitter, or anything else that recalls a disco ball, it’s the centerpiece of the outfit. And while we’d never begrudge anyone for wanting to look like a gaggle (a flock? A throng?) of tinsel, why not wear something that won’t stick out like a sore thumb when you rewear it in February?
Ahead, we rounded up 18 New Year’s Eve outfits that are fun and festive but won’t leave a trail of glitter in your wake.
The One That Checks All the Boxes
Velvet. Bows. Matching bottoms. Really, the only thing missing from this so-2023 (in the best way) top is that it isn’t ruby red.
The Not-Boring Blazer
Unabashedly wearing white to a party where wine and other highly consequential beverages will be drunk is just the sort of energy we encourage you to charge into 2024 with. Dress it up with the coordinating wide-leg trousers or dress it down with denim.
The Touch of Red
The real “It” girl of 2023 was the color red. If you haven’t yet dipped your toe in the crimson waters, a versatile cardigan is a great option to wear beyond your New Year’s soirée. For the fashion girlies, feel free to wrap it around your shoulders and let them stare.
The Anne Hathaway–Inspired Dress
If your Roman Empire is Anne Hathaway and stylist Erin Walsh’s parade of nonstop hits, look no further. Recently, the ice queen of Genovia has been out and about in head-to-toe winter whites, and this silky number from Reformation more than fits the bill. It’s equal parts sexy and classy, and you can channel other trends like velvet shoes, red (via lip or bag), bows (affix them to your hair!), and so much more.
The Restrained Razzle-dazzle
Have a dinner out with the in-laws? Attending a party hosted by “the clients”? If you’re going to be around a more conservative crowd (or just your co-workers), this top will hit all the right notes. The words taffeta-trimmed may not conjure a particularly modern vision in the world of party attire, but we love how it’s been translated with a quiet luxury (a.k.a. The Row–esque) vibe by Staud here.
The Visually Stimulating Top
One way to wink at the disco-ball look without actually wearing sequins is to prioritize pleats. This blouse is made of silver-sheen satin and fashioned in a way that will play nicely with twinkling lights over a midnight dinner party.
The Festive Sweater
As far as we’re concerned, you can safely wear holiday sweaters until the last gasp of winter. This Fair Isle sweater features a deep V-neck and a cropped hem, making it the perfect counterpart to maxi skirts, denim, trousers, or anything you may be tempted to front-tuck.
The Dress to Impress
A main-character dress for anyone who played their premiere role in 2023 — or didn’t get to and is using this as a vehicle to manifest it. Part of Dôen’s handmade Heirloom collection, the midi takes a cue from 1950s designs with a sweetheart neckline, tulle sleeves (adorned with polka dots), and a perfectly fitted bodice.
The Party-Ready Capris
Another vintage-inspired item that’s particularly appropriate right now is the Capri pant. Toodles, puddle pants! The cropped hem and body-skimming pants that Sandy Olsson wore post-makeover are back. Opt for a longer-hemmed kick flare (see Donni), or go all out with one that hits right at the knee (see Wardrobe.NYC) — our favorite references Audrey Hepburn with a mid-calf length and cute peekaboo slit.
The Worth-It Jumpsuit
It takes a lot to accept the sheer inconvenience of a jumpsuit. But when you find a good one, you’ll spend the entire night questioning why you don’t have more of them in your wardrobe. This one from Mango is a muted green that can get a lot of post-NYE play, has an easy wide leg, and comes together with a simple clasp around the neckline.
The Micro Mini
It was a big year for minis as we collectively realized they’re quite easy to style in fresh ways post–Miu Miu and Prada shows. Wear this one with ballet flats, moto boots, stockings, and killer outerwear and you have an instant fashion-girlie outfit.
The Muted Metallic
If you’re not a fan of all-over luster, perhaps just a portion? Mixed-material pieces, like this one from Ulla Johnson, are ideal for standing out just enough. Especially as you sashay your way to the waiter holding the appetizers.
The Ruched and Ruffled One
Be the dessert in this top that’s equally sweet and decadent. It’s giving the Vampire’s Wife after a few lost decimal placements.
The One to Throw Over Anything
Not sure what to wear? No pressure — throw on a vest and people will assume you’re on the Sofia Richie Grainge train.
The Top You’ll Keep Reaching For
Date nights, brunches, and holiday fêtes — they’re all fair game for this flexible halter top. The silky satin makes for seamless tuck-ins, and the imitation-pearl neckline is built-in jewelry, which means you’ll have one less thing to worry about.
The Standout
On many nights, the coat is the outfit. While you can use this for what it really is (a tailored blanket under which you can disappear), it works best as the focal point of your fit. Take note of the styling, and offset the long length with a mini silhouette … and then offset your mini with chunky boots.
The Fancy Feet
Velvet shoes are absolutely made for parties; when they’re in the form of flat-soled mary janes, they’re made particularly for 2023 parties. These flats from Aeyde sit beautifully between the Le Monde Béryl and Vibi Venezia in all respects and are available in leather if you’re looking for something that may hold up better on commutes (because you will want to wear these comfortable shoes everywhere).
The Ball-Drop Dangles
Gigi Hadid, New York City icon and stay-at-home mom on New Year’s Eve, is a fan of Haricot Vert’s playful jewelry and uses the colorful pieces to jazz up all kinds of ensembles. Whether you’ll be watching the ball drop from your couch or out on the town, an on-theme set of earrings won’t hurt your look. Plus it’s a better conversation starter than “So you ready to watch that ball drop?”
