Are you hemming and hawing over what to wear to that New Years' Eve bash? You know the agenda, but you're not sure if your planned outfit is entirely appropriate? You can go with the safe little black sheath dress and heels - or you can take advantage of the party plans and dress to match the night's festivities. You'll be more comfortable, and maybe even have a little more fun. So check out our advice on how your party look can help you ease into the evening in style, and focus on what's important - welcoming the new year with friends, family and laughter.
DANCING
If your plans include a few spins on the dance floor, go ahead and wear a full skirt! After all - how often do you actually have the opportunity to twirl? And don't forget some killer but comfortable shoes - wear pumps you've already test-driven, or grab a chunky heel or kitten heel that will be kind to your feet until midnight and beyond.
Blue Fit and Flare Dress by Reiss, $283 | Metallic Kitten-heel Sandals by J. Crew, $188 | Crop Top by Cynthia Rowley, $250 | Silk Faille Full Skirt by Tibi, $525 | Kitten Heels by Topshop, $116 | Houndstooth and Flower Silk-jacquard Dress by Oscar de la Renta, $2448 | Suede and Metallic Open Toe Pumps by Cole Haan, $199.95
CLOSE QUARTERS
Will you most likely be standing and chatting in a crowd? Then you'll get the most credit for what's up top - so wear your sparkle and color on your upper half. An embellished blouse or a necklace that demands attention will definitely get you noticed.
Embellished Silk Top by 3.1 Phillip Lim, $247.50 | Norah Pendant by Stella & Dot, $98 | Navy Necklace by Erickson Beamon, from Club Monaco, $295 | Blue Crush Statement Necklace by Banana Republic, $79.50 | Woven Chain Statement Necklace by BCBG, $168 | Grey Beaded Flapper Top by Jigsaw, $173
UP AND DOWN
Is the party you're attending a little more intimate? Will you be sitting, standing, moving? Then this isn't the time for a tight skirt or constricting dress. Choose a looser silhouette that still has impact but allows you to maneuver from buffet to couch and back.
Lainey Dress by Diane Von Furstenberg, $345 | Sequined Chiffon Dress by Mango, $89.99 | Marcella Dress by Ralph Lauren Blue Label, see site for pricing
DINNERTIME
A sit down dinner is a great occasion for festive chatter - but it's no time for cleavage. You don't want to show more than intended when you're reaching for the veggies, right?
Lace Panel Dress by Reiss, $300 | Sequin Tinsel T-shirt Dress by Topshop, $140 | Gathered Satin Dress by Badgley Mischka, $242.50
WALLFLOWER
If you're not feeling like the life of the party, a dramatic or quirky accessory can help ease the night. It gives someone the ideal reason to come up to you and say, "I love your _____", or "where did you get that?" Talk about a perfect ice breaker.....
(clockwise from top left) Lapis Facet Cuff by Kelly Wearstler, $395 | Crystal Bee and Skull Cocktail Ring by Alexander McQueen, $290 | Crystal Bird of Paradise Brooch by Oscar de la Renta, $295 | Crystal and Pearl Earrings by Nektar de Stagni, $427 | Crystal Polka Dot Watch by Betsey Johnson, $185 | Vera Clutch by Jonathan Adler, $198
