Deciding what to wear as you ring in the New Year can be a bit tricky. There are many factors to consider when planning your outfit.

Things to Consider:

Venue
The most important thing to consider is the venue. You’ll want to dress very differently depending on where the party/event is being held.
If your venue is less formal, dress just slightly more dressy than you would normally. For instance, if you’re heading out to your favorite bar or a friend’s house for New Year’s Eve, dress up your usual look by wearing a dressier top or even a dress. If you’re headed out to a nightclub, you should definitely wear a sexy cocktail dress. And, if you’re doing dinner and drinks somewhere more swanky, dress a bit more conservatively with a long or full skirt, a classy dress or a dressy top with trendy pants.
Temperature
You should also consider the temperature when planning your outfit. If it’s cold outside and you’ll only be going from the car to the venue, you can get away with wearing a cocktail dress or sleeveless top if you layer with a cape or shawl. If you’ll be spending a fair amount of time outside, dress warmer.
Other Guests
Lastly, consider what most of the other guests might be wearing. This is not so easy to predict, but definitely deserves some thought. You don’t want to be underdressed or too overdressed. The trick is to dress slightly over the norm. So, consider what you think others might be wearing. Think about your host or friends who will also be attending. What will they probably wear? Once you’ve determined that, don’t copy–dress up just slightly more. Be careful though, if you go too far, you’ll feel uncomfortable. If you are just a tad bit overdressed compared to other attendees, you’ll be the recipient of compliments all night.

Some outfit ideas

I’ve chosen pieces that are currently on sale to keep these outfits affordable.

Dressy Casual

If you are headed to a friend’s house, your neighborhood bar or a pub crawl, this is the category to choose from. Pairing a nice pair of jeans with a cute top and fun accessories is the perfect formula for this level of dressiness.

Shown: Sequin Top ($15.99), Beaded Top ($8.99), Belted Coat ($39.99), Cardigan ($69.99), Sequin Tank ($89.00)
Pair any of these tops with your favorite jeans, stiletto heels, a chunky necklace and a fitted coat.

Sexy & Fun

For a nightclub party, a cocktail party at a friend’s house or a fun night of club hopping, opt for a sexy little black dress or a fun cocktail dress.

Shown: Cocktail Dress ($94.80), Contrast Bow Dress ($99.99), Drape Neck Dress ($88.80), Asymmetrical Dress ($109.99), Sequin Dress ($129.99)
Pair with a cute pair of stilettos, a clutch, a warm shawl and statement jewelry.

Dressy & Sophisticated

For a dressier event such as a gala or a catered dinner and dance, opt for something a bit classier.

Shown: Halter Gown ($99.99), Lace Cocktail Dress ($59.99), Silk Dress ($106.80), Cashmere Asymmetrical Gown ($169.99)

Your Thoughts?

What will you be wearing this New Year’s Eve? What is your favorite New Year’s outfit you’ve worn in the past? Share in the comments…