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As someone who recently turned 41, the idea of going all out for New Years Eve sounds absurd. Going to a party at a club? Gross. Sweaty and gross. Running around in heels in the cold and icy streets? Courting death. Paying exorbitant entrance fees? For what? Terrible champagne and the worst hangover of my life? I’d like to think I’ve learned from my mistakes.
But I do love the part beforehand where you try on all your clothes and have extra fun with your make up. And a house party with friends is always cool…I do appreciate a reason to go out for a nice dinner. Ok, NYE can be fun. I’m back in! And it is the biggest excuse of the year to do the one thing I love the most of all the NYE activities: skip out on all going out plans to stay home and snack in front of the TV.
If you wait until the last minute to plan everything, like me, here are some ideas to help you decide what to wear to the only reasonable options for a New Years Evening.
Dinner Out
Sheer Pants / Shorts / Silk Shirt / Ring / Earrings / Bag /
I love the idea of pairing a fun silk camper shirt with a sheer pant. Laid back up top and sophisticated below. Something about the sexy in gentle contrast to the quirky does it for me. Casablanca designs some favorites, but – hot tip – the men’s section of your local thrift store will have a selection of this style. And sometimes googling the same style of shirt, but for men will bring you much more affordable (and a wider selection of) results.
While I am not eager to try out the tights/no pants look, I love a wide leg sheer pant with a brief or hot pants underneath. Full coverage sheer will always be sophisticated Greta Garbo sexy to me.
I don’t normally recommend matching your shoes and bag. I agree with the masses that it’s an outdated rule and not the right kind of matchy matchy. But in this case, I think matching your rhinestones adds some elegance to this funky fit. And slingbacks are always a great choice. If you long to pull off a funky vintage glam look, why not do it on the night everyone goes all out? Wear your joy.
House Party (Casual)
Jumpsuit / Bag / Earrings / Bracelet / Boots
A jumpsuit is usually the perfect thing to wear to any occasion, but especially a house party. It can be dressed up or dressed down, and it’s intrinsic structure always makes you look put together. It does all the work for you.
One of my fave Jumpsuit providers is Big Bud Press, a Los Angeles based clothing label specializing in unisex clothing. I’ve been eyeing their vintage workwear inspired Faded Grape Jumpsuit for a while now, and their Carpenter Jeans are workwear style heaven. They have so many sizes, so everything fits like a dream.
One of my favorite trends right now is combining silver and gold. This silver pleated shoulder bag is perfect for hauling a bottle of wine to gift the host. Charm necklaces and bracelets are everywhere right now – as are overpriced options. If you are in the NYC or LA area, Brooklyn Charm is a cute and fun experience and thankfully affordable. For an online option, Happily Made’s build your own bracelets are $54.
House Party (Dress Up)
Dress / Earrings / Bag / Boots
You want to feel sexy on NYE, right? But showing a lot of skin in the middle of winter? Not practical. Of course, if you want to show off your glowy skin and hot bod, go for it, but I often find the more I cover up, and drape myself in fabric, the more hot I feel. I think this has something to do with well-fitted clothes that emphasize assets. Enter, the drape-y, delicately form-fitting maxi long-sleeved maxi dress from Réalisation Par. The bell sleeves and slight flare at the hem are so flattering. We have entered glamazon territory with this one.
It’s impossible not to have a great time in a metallic boot. Everyone wants to party with chill and confident metallic boot girl. I want a pair so bad. More so, I want an excuse to wear them. Thank you, NYE. Keep the jewelry simple with this look, because the outfit has already achieved self-realization.
Staying In
Pajamas / Necklace / Slippers / Throw / Glassware
When I was a kid, every New Years Eve, my dad would buy my brother and me Bugles (yes, the chip) and we would rent the under-rated and campy classic, The Great Race, starring Jack Lemmon, Tony Curtis, and Natalie Wood (her costumes are to die for). We would sit close to the TV screen, put the Bugles on our fingers, like witch nails, and laugh our faces off. Why Bugles? I think we thought they were really bad for us, so we were only allowed them once a year? Best guess.
Ever since, staying home and watching an old movie on NYE has been one of my favorite traditions. I’ve learned to take it up a notch and treat myself to a nice cocktail, a soft blanket, and some luxurious pajamas. This washable silk set from Lunya is so classy and requires no costume change, if you decide to go out last minute. Throw on some stilettos a faux fur, and you’re good to go! Or make yourself another bowl of popcorn (or Bugles), curl up in you blanket, and continue making good decisions.
