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I have the same problem every single year: I have no clue about what to wear on New Year’s Eve.
We all know the classic holiday attire: velvet, sparkles, lots of basic black, maybe some silver or gold. But, I’m not always into wearing kitschy clothes emphasizing the start of a new era.
No, you won’t see me donning the “2025” glasses. No gold sashes flaunting the new year. No silly hats. I like to have fun, you see, but I also like to look my best.
If you’re not a fan of sequins and tacky new year-related clothing, no worries. You don’t have to wear anything you don’t want to.
In fact, I like to treat New Year’s Eve as my “Kardashian moment.” AKA I wear as much black as humanly possible and pretend I’m a celebrity. It does wonders for your mental health, and don’t they say that black is slimming?
By now, I’m actually quite versed in finding a subtle New Year’s Eve outfit that aligns with my style. If I had to describe the specific aesthetic, it would be city chic. And to find something up to my standards, I like to step out of the box.
Sure, your mind may go to basic mall stores while shopping online. You think about H&M, Garage, Abercrombie, American Eagle, and more. But that’s often led me to simply not feeling like I found the best option for myself or — quel horreur! — wearing the exact same outfit as others.
If you want to shop for an understated New Year’s Eve outfit that’s fashionable and you’ll feel comfortable wearing again — and perhaps again? — here are some of my favorite pieces this year!
What I love about this piece from Oh Polly is that it’s your classic LBD with a twist. The cut-out provides a teeny bit of skin as if you’re wearing a two-piece set…but leaves an element of mystery.
I love the bell sleeves and satin look as well, which make it an easy dress to wear to multiple functions and still look amazing.
As I get older, I realize my need for a gown grows. Whether it’s for a wedding, work event, gala, or anything in between, I must have a full-length dress on-hand. If you’re going somewhere a bit more fancy this New Year’s, I recommend getting this for any black tie event.
Its classic silhouette will flatter most body types, and the slit up the leg is a cheeky touch. Again, it’s a dress that you will wear more than once and get your money’s worth.
The bubble dress is one of 2024’s trendiest styles. Commemorate the year in fashion and also have a repeat-performance, timeless dress. This version from SNDYS won’t break the bank, and you’ll look smashing in that darling drop waist, darling.
Add in a pop of color with your shoes and bag, or keep to the “Kardashian moment” by wearing all black. Either way, you’ll feel adorable in this dress. I guarantee it.
While I’m not usually a fan of lots of sparkle on my clothing, I like this subtle nod to New Year’s Eve attire. It’s classy, and of course can be worn again without risking looking too holiday.
This is a simple shift lined with diamonds to give that luxe shimmer everyone pines for on New Year’s. Hint: you don’t need sequins to look amazing this year.
A good corset dress can do wonders for your confidence. I adore this one because it doesn’t scream corset, and the lace gives romane. It’s a testament to vintage clothing in the best way.
Plus, it’s affordable, a mid-length, and extremely comfy. If you want to snatch your waist without doing a bunch of diet and exercise, this dress will do all the work for you.
This fur-trimmed skirt is luxurious looking and perfectly sassy for New Year’s. You can wear it year-round when you want to make a fashion statement…but this will certainly turn some heads over the holidays.
One of my favorite pieces on this list, a saucy skirt is the only thing you need to stand out this year.
For your New Year’s Eve outfit, your shoes should speak to you. If you have absolutely nothing to wear, I understand the anxiety. However, everyone needs a solid pair of black heeled boots.
These Tony Bianco’s are perfect for kicking year-round, and are surprisingly easy on the feet. A must-have for the fashion-forward and the desperate.