New Year’s Eve is already one of the biggest nights of the year for going all-out fashion-wise. Add to that the fact that we all rang in 2021 on our couches, and you’ve got a collective itch to get extra fancy this year. No matter your plans, the best New Year’s Eve outfits for 2022 encourage you to pull out all the stops.
“Whether you are simply sipping on Champagne on your couch or going full out with an epic party, NYE fashion should be approached with a nod to the end of the holiday season,” says Zoey Washington, a freelance fashion director. “Think rich jewel tones, luxe materials like velvet, lamé or lace. This is your opportunity to turn up the volume on shine, glitter and glam that borders on tackiness in the form of sequins, rhinestone details, daring necklines or anything that pairs well with a party hat and champagne.“
Others, of course, are looking forward to a more casual evening in, despite having had a less-than-memorable start to 2021. “There’s something about having the option of staying in that’s appealing to me,” says Theresa Massony, a senior editor at PopSugar. “If I’m not going to be comfortable if (read: when) I fall asleep in it at the end of the night, I also don’t want it. Knowing that, I’m leaning into cozy fabrics that still look luxe — even if I’m only destined for my couch.”
No matter what’s on the docket this year — a fancy night out, a cozy night in, or some combination of both — here’s what to wear to celebrate.
Women’s New Year’s Eve outfits
“My birthday is January 9 and my boyfriend’s is the 6th so we love to kick off the season on New Year’s Eve,” says Sydney Schiff, a consultant living in NYC. “I’m loving the idea of maximal vibes with minimal color. I usually build my outfits around my shoes.” Take a page out of her book and use the holiday as an excuse to go all out.
Wayf Carrie Sequin Dress ($78; shopbop.com)
A sparkly, sequined mini dress screams “New Year’s Eve.”
Steve Madden Tava Over the Knee Boot ($89.90, originally $134.95; nordstrom.com)
A pair of over-the-knee boots is perfect for NYE.
Anine Bing Bar Silk-Satin Midi Skirt ($249; net-a-porter.com)
A simple black satin skirt makes an NYE ensemble that much fancier, says Schiff.
Mango Glossy Baguette Bag ($59.99; mango.com)
A sparkly bag instantly brings up the wow factor on any NYE look.
Patrizia Pepe Side-Fastened Cigarette Trousers ($164; farfetch.com)
Pair these cigarette pants with a menswear-inspired blazer and a fun top now — and rejoice in all the wear you’ll get out of them well into 2022.
14/Quatorze Baby’s Breath Gold-Plated Pearl Ear Cuff ($155; net-a-porter.com)
“NYE is usually the time when I don my most eye-catching jewelry because this holiday is all about attention,” says Washington.
Paris Texas Python Print Slouchy Stiletto Boots ($970; shopbop.com)
This slouchy pair of boots is fun enough for the holiday, but tame enough to wear all year-round.
Men’s New Year’s Eve outfits
While men can generally get away with a button-down and slacks, New Year’s Eve is a fun excuse to dress up. Still, no matter your plans, there are tons of options for a cozy night in, too.
Mango Long Recycled Wool Coat ($229.99; mango.com)
If you’re heading out for the night, a wool coat will instantly dress up your look.
Dickies R2R The Don Pant ($80; urbanoutfitters.com)
A reviewer says these pants are “perfect both for classy and casual looks.”
Ted Baker Josh Slim Fit Velvet Tuxedo Jacket ($798; nordstrom.com)
Heading somewhere extra fancy? Here’s your ticket in.
Mango Regular-Fit Pleated Pants ($69.99; mango.com)
A pair of well-tailored pants is a must-have, no matter the holiday.
H&M Muscle Fit Cotton Shirt ($29.99; hm.com)
A button-down in a fun colorway, like this abstract floral pattern, is always a good idea.
Topman Skinny Cord Suit ($167; asos.com)
If there’s ever an occasion for a rich-colored blazer, New Year’s Eve is it.
Boss Men’s Eastside Plain-Toe Oxfords ($280; bloomingdales.com)
When else are you going to break out the patent leather Oxfords?
Classic Fit Non-Iron Dress Shirt ($39.60; nordstrom.com)
A classic black shirt is a must.
Casual New Year’s Eve outfits
Massony hit the nail on the head when she said she wants the option to stay in. Even if you’re not keen on a big celebration, you can still have fun watching the ball drop from the comfort of your own couch — and you can dress for it, too.
H&M Long Rhinestone Earrings ($17.99; hm.com)
Schiff says she loves a statement earring for any holiday party look — even a more casual one.
High-Rise Vintage Jogger Sweatpants ($15.40, originally $22; target.com)
These joggers live the illusion of trousers — but they’re actually sweatpants that can be dressed up or down.
Ulla Johnson Rochelle Pants ($495; shopbop.com)
Just because you’re going cozy doesn’t mean you have to look schlubby.
Eloquii Ring Detail Cutout Top ($49.95; nordstrom.com)
Pair this top with jeans and fun socks for a chill night in.
Skims Cozy Knit Wrap ($68; skims.com)
Say what you will about Kim K., but the woman knows how to design the coziest, comfiest clothes ever. The brand has turned into a cult favorite among editors and celebs alike.
Baum Und Pferdgarten Cecilee Sweater ($299; shopbop.com)
A checkered sweater that’s cute enough to wear well after the new year is always a smart idea.
Donni Shearling Slipper Slides ($114; donni.com)
A pair of slippers that hit just over $100 sounds insane — until you put your feet in these. They’re made to order, completely customizable and majorly comfortable.