New Year’s Eve always stirs up mixed emotions depending on who you poll, specifically within the realm of fashion. The glittery holiday carries with it an over-the-top dress code—or at least the perception of one. For those who don’t subscribe to a like-minded day-to-day rotation, the sparkle of it all feels out of character. While others take the day in stride as an opportunity to shed their minimalist inhibitions and embrace lace, tulle, and sequins for a night of frivolity. Then, there are the few that simply dress like that year-round. We’ve asked a few of our most stylish friends to reveal their thoughts on the sartorial aspect of New Year’s Eve. The results are varied but often cater to their plans. So, whether you’re heading to the slopes, folicking on the beach, or staying in, discover their suggestions for dressing accordingly!
Beverly Nguyen, Fashion Stylist & Founder of NYC Homewares Shop Beverly’s
Photo: Courtesy of Beverly Nguyen
What are your thoughts on NYE style in general? Is its over-the-top nature something that's conducive with your personal style?
“I think of New Year’s Eve as an exciting time to have rituals and to prepare for what’s to come. I love to reflect on what’s taken me this far and what new ideas can be imagined before midnight! So, my NYE style is typically something that honors my comfort and is easy. Diamonds are a good start. They are, after all, a form of a crystal and a symbol of protection."
What has your NYE style evolution looked like throughout the years?
“Traditionally, the week of New Year’s, I’m usually with a group of close friends somewhere tropical by the beach. We cook and dance and stay out in the heat, day and night. I’ll typically pack a silky colorful top and skirt or a tiny dress! But always lots of jewelry!”
Today, how do you approach the glittery nature of the holiday? Do you embrace it, tone it down, or forgo the notion altogether?
“I embrace it! I’m convinced it makes my skin shine!”
Maria McManus, Founder, Maria McManus
Photo: Courtesy of Maria McManus
What are your thoughts on NYE style in general? Is its over-the-top nature something that's conducive with your personal style?
“No, my personal style is definitely minimal versus over-the-top. For New Year’s Eve, I always go with a more understated look. I love a suit with a great piece of lacey underwear underneath, or a sheer top and big wide-leg pants.”
What has your NYE style evolution looked like throughout the years?
“Usually, we spend NYE at an old hunting lodge in Co. Kerry, Ireland where a cohort of family and friends will join us for dinner and dancing. (The limbo at 4 AM and an honor system at the bar have led to some interesting stories) I have always had a more relaxed, understated approach to NYE dressing—anything that’s good for dancing in and always heels.”
Today, how do you approach the glittery nature of the holiday? Do you embrace it, tone it down, or forgo the notion altogether?
“Earrings are always my way of adding glitter to a look. I love anything that’s big with pearls or bejeweled. My go-tos are anything vintage, Sophie Buhai, Sophie Bille Brahe, Agmes, and Isabel Marant.”
Lily Atherton Hanbury, Creative Director & Founder, Le Monde Beryl
Photo: Courtesy of Lily Hanbury
What are your thoughts on NYE style in general? Is its over-the-top nature something that's conducive with your personal style?
“I normally have a very relaxed style, almost always involving jeans. However, I love getting dressed up on occasion, and I think the best times happen when there is a feeling of glamour and effort made, even when it’s just for dinner at home.”
What has your NYE style evolution looked like throughout the years?
“Looking back, I have spent most winter holidays in the mountains. I have always loved getting dressed up for New Year's Eve, even in a snowstorm. A couple of years ago, we skied down the mountain after dinner, and then we all danced under the snow.”
Today, how do you approach the glittery nature of the holiday? Do you embrace it, tone it down, or forgo the notion altogether?
“This year, we will be in Rome with family and friends, and I feel unbelievably lucky, so I am inevitably going to overdress. I love layers of sheer lace or tulle, vintage or antique dresses worn in a modern way.”
Naomi Elizée, Editor, Vogue
Photo: Courtesy of Naomi Elizée
What are your thoughts on NYE style in general? Is its over-the-top nature something that's conducive with your personal style?
“NYE style is all about looking forward. Sometimes, it's about the glitz and glam and for anyone and everyone to transform into the person they want to be and to feel free. Other times, it's about being low-key and comfortable at home surrounded by your loved ones. New Year’s Eve symbolizes new beginnings and new chapters, so when it comes to NYE style, I like to dress however I want to reflect the type of year I want and hope for.”
What has your NYE style evolution looked like throughout the years?
“I've always gravitated towards rhinestones and sequins for NYE. Throughout college, my NYE uniform was a sequined body con dress. Now, I just accessorize with rhinestones and sequins.”
This season, how are you approaching the glittery nature of the holiday? Do you embrace it, tone it down, or forgo the notion altogether?
“This year, I will be toning it down and will be staying in my apartment for the big night. For my at-home look, I would love to wear a cozy pair of pajamas, fuzzy slippers, and, of course, a 2022 hat.”
Alexandra Macon, Co-founder, Over the Moon
Photo: Courtesy of Alexandra Macon
What are your thoughts on NYE style in general? Is its over-the-top nature something that's conducive with your personal style?
“The over-the-top nature of NYE is definitely conducive to my personal style. I’ve found that the pandemic has made me a woman of extremes. I think of this photo of Taylor Swift and Keleigh Teller from the ‘I Bet You Think About Me’ video a lot because these days I’m often in athleisure—but if I do go out, I want to go all out. I want to get dressed up!”
What has your NYE style evolution looked like throughout the years?
“I’ve always loved Sienna Miller’s New Year’s look in the movie Alfie with Jude Law. It came out in the early aughts, and she wore a cat eye, bronzer, and lots of sparkle. Her Met Gala look in 2006 had a similar feel. She wore a short sparkly Burberry mini dress with black opaque tights. These are the two looks I almost always end up referencing when trying to figure out what to wear on NYE.”
Today, how do you approach the glittery nature of the holiday? Do you embrace it, tone it down, or forgo the notion altogether?
“I fully embrace it!”
Monica Rich Kosann, Founder, Monica Rich Kosann
Photo: Courtesy of Monica Rich Kosann
What are your thoughts on NYE style in general? Is its over-the-top nature something that's conducive with your personal style?
“We love staying home on New Year's Eve with friends and family these days. It's a cozy evening for us. We usually make a fire and sit around eating lots of good h’ors d'oeuvres. Good wine is essential, of course!”
What has your NYE style evolution looked like throughout the years?
“Years ago, we would travel over the holidays when my kids were young and New Year's Eve was always a fun affair. Getting dressed up with them was always so much fun. Heels, of course! Now, a cashmere sweater, jeans, and lots of jewelry is my go-to NYE outfit.”
Today, how do you approach the glittery nature of the holiday? Do you embrace it, tone it down, or forgo the notion altogether?
“I love giving gifts. I make gift piles every year for everyone on my list. It's my favorite time of the year. I wrap every present in fun wrapping paper, even if it's just socks.”
