There is a lot of advice out there for what to wear on New Year's Eve. If you just realized the clock is ticking and you need to put something together at the last minute, here are some suggestions to dig through your closet for.
- It's an evening event; narrow your options down to dark. Ideally think black and charcoal grey.
- New Year's Eve is often associated with old school elegance. Think classy with a pop of style or color for a winning formula.
- Keep it simple and comfortable. Don't wear something you are going to tug or pull or feel uncertain in. Wear pieces you feel confident it.
- If you are going to an indoor party, dress in layers. It may get warm. Don't depend on wearing that sweater all night. Make sure you have a nice shirt underneath. And regardless, wear plenty of deodorant. No one wants to toast with Mr. B-O.
- Unless you are going to a themed party, a rave, or a wild pub, keep it elegant and pick one item to be your accent and keep the rest of your look simple. The one item can be an accessory such as your tie, or stylish-statement shoes. Or, it can be a larger piece such as the jacket, pants or shirt. See the image by The Sartorialist above for an example of a pop of color in an otherwise simple sea of black.
- For an outdoor event, wear a dark overcoat, slacks, shoes, etc. and a colorful hat or scarf to keep warm and festive.
- Semi-Formal: Wear a dark suit with a rich, jewel-toned tie. Think ruby red, burgundy, or purple. A fine paisley, or other fine (small) print is nice as would a high quality, solid tie.
- Remember that women in general LOVE to dress up for New Year's Eve and will dress at the most formal end of a dress code spectrum. Expect cocktail dresses, high heels and tons of metallics for any party where "dressy" or Semi-Formal is mentioned. Don't make us feel over dressed. Dress accordingly.
- Regardless of what you read online, please don't wear leather pants tonight, unless you are a rockstar or a fashionisto.
- Lastly, if you plan on sharing a kiss as the clock strikes twelve, please make sure you pack a breath mint in your pocket. No one wants to start the year off with Mr. Yuck Mouth.
Mr. CB asked me how to dress for a New Year's Eve party with a dress code of "Attire is dressy casual, holiday festive or semi formal." This is basically anything from jeans and a sweater to a suit and tie. Considering what he had available in his wardrobe, I recommended dark, premium denim, a white textured dress shirt, nice black shoes, hip jeans belt and a dark jacket. The jacket upgraded the denim to slacks level and the overall look is a combination of dressy casual with a bit of formal.
Best wishes to you for a fabulous New Year's Eve and I raise my glass and toast you for a happy, healthy and successful New Year 2010!
All the Best,
Lisa
