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New Year’s Eve Outfits: Going Out vs. Staying In


It’s that special time of year to prepare for the end of one chapter and the start of another one. The new year represents new beginnings and can bring change, growth, and exciting opportunities. Celebrating New Year’s Eve can look different from one person to the next. Some choose to stay in and watch the ball drop on T.V., while others dance the night away under a disco ball. No matter what your plans are, infuse a little magic into the last night of the year with your New Year’s Eve outfit. For the homebodies and the party-goers alike, we’ve got New Year’s Eve outfit ideas to help you look and feel your best when the clock strikes midnight.

Soma<sup class=st-superscript>®</sup> laydown of nude bra, shapewear shorts + WHBM<sup class=st-superscript>®</sup> silver sequin dress, bag, earrings, and nude pumps.

What Should I Wear on New Year’s Eve?

Not sure what you should wear on New Year’s Eve? Before you start pulling clothes from your closet and throwing New Year’s outfits together, first consider your plans. Are you going anywhere? If so, is it a dive bar or an upscale club? Are staying home or gathering with close friends for a low-key celebration? 


Knowing this first will help you decide whether you’re going for casual New Year’s Eve outfits or something dressier. Although there are no hard and fast rules—you can wear sequins and your most glamorous outfit no matter what you’re doing!

New Year’s Eve Outfit Ideas for Going Out

New Year’s Eve is a holiday where you can go all out with your outfit choice. From New Year’s Eve party dresses that have a wow factor to bold accessories that may be deemed too flashy any other day of the year. No one will bat an eye at your outfit trimmed with frills and feathers, so have fun with it! 

If you’re feeling festive but still want to wear an elegant ensemble, try a satin slip dress in a standout color like ruby red or rich gold. Adding a few accessories like a pearl or pendant necklace can dress things up even more. Top off your look with kitten heels or decorative flats and a sequin handbag for that classic sparkle and shine. 

Soma<sup class=st-superscript>®</sup> model wearing a red satin slip gown, gold and pearl jewelry, holding a martini glass, standing in front of a bar.


It’s important to note that the making of an excellent outfit begins with what’s underneath. For New Year’s Eve outfits in fabrics that hug the body, like silk or satin, you’ll want to choose the best first layers to complement your look. Going for panties that ensure a no ride, no roll, no show finish is an excellent way to go. Or, opt for shapewear that skims the body, provides extra coverage, and helps reduce chafing.


New Year’s Eve party dresses commonly have unique necklines so a way to avoid any bra mishaps is to go with a multi-way bra. It’s time to leave unwanted bra straps in the past. These versatile types of bras allow you to convert the straps to a multitude of styles including the classic two-strap, one-shoulder, crisscross back, halter, and strapless.

New Year’s Eve Outfit Ideas for Staying In

A cozy night in is like gold and we don’t blame you for preferring to ring in the new year from the comfort of your home. Even if you’re staying on the couch all night long, it can still be a fancy party in your pajamas! Set aside your oversized T-shirts and boxer briefs for the night and opt for something more luxe. Because casual New Year’s Eve outfits for staying in are all about mixing one part comfort with one part glam.

Soma<sup class=st-superscript>®</sup> model lounging and wearing gold and off-white satin pants, cami, and matching robe.

Go for those satin pajamas that you like to reserve for special occasions or self-care nights. Style long, flowy satin PJ bottoms with a chic camisole. Wrap yourself in a luxurious robe to stay warm—style points if it’s floor-length and boasts dramatic wide sleeves. The more extravagant you can be, the better. Turn up the comfy factor with super-soft panties and feel free to lean into your flirty side with a sexy lace bralette to strike the perfect balance between comfort and style. 

Pop on those fuzzy socks or fuzzy slippers and don’t be afraid to accessorize with a little sparkle. There’s no reason you can’t wear your diamond earrings with your pajamas. Remember—no rules!

Can You Wear Jeans to a New Year’s Eve Party?

Are you a tried-and-true denim fan? The good news is you can absolutely wear jeans to a New Year’s Eve party—if it matches the dress code. If you’re attending a black tie ball, for example, jeans won’t do. But if dressy casual is the vibe, that’s a different story. For cute New Year’s Eve outfits styled with jeans, think darker washes or bright colors for an elevated feel. To pull off a New Year’s outfit with jeans, focus on mixing materials. For example, a great pair of black jeans will look stunning with a sparkly top, velvet blazer, or leather jacket.

What Color is Best for New Year’s Eve 2023? 

Did you know there’s a belief that the colors you wear for your New Year’s outfits are powerful and can bring good luck? For example, silver can represent financial success, purple stands for power and ambition, and green signifies growth. Do you have certain aspirations for the new year? Whether you’re a believer or not, it can be fun to go for those bolder shades you might not normally reach for.

Soma<sup class=st-superscript>®</sup> model wearing thigh shapewear and silver sequin dress. Close-up of dark green satin fabric.

Beyond the meaning of certain hues, the ultimate New Year’s Eve colors make you look and feel your best. After all, your comfort and confidence are what truly matters when getting dressed. What colors do you love to wear? Do you prefer to wear neutrals but still want to have fun with your look? Try wearing a fun-colored bra underneath. It’ll be for your eyes only but you’ll enjoy having a little, flirty secret that only you know about.

How to Dress for the New Year’s Eve Weather

Are you traveling far and away to ring in the new year or are you staying local? Either way, how to dress for the night depends mostly on the weather. Most areas in the United States will be very cold—maybe even freezing—so you want to consider that when picking out your New Year’s Eve outfit.

The ways you can stay toasty to and from your destination are with the right layers. If you’re wearing a dress, consider opting for fleece-lined tights to keep your legs warm. Always bring a jacket too. Have fun with your outerwear—think faux fur and tassels! It’s the perfect time to break out the statement pieces you rarely wear.

Lastly, don’t forget cozy accessories like scarves, gloves, and beanies that you can of course remove once you arrive at your New Year’s Eve bash.

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