STYLE
New Year’s Eve Outfits by Destination
December 18, 2025
Out with the old, in with the new. Ring in the New Year in party-ready looks styled by contributing fashion editor Cynthia Cook Smith.
Meet Our Expert:
Cynthia Cook Smith
During her time at Vogue, Cynthia worked behind the scenes at everything from fashion shows to the Met Gala, helping dress people for major events. Ten years later, she now styles clients for special occasions and everyday life.
How to Choose the Right Outfit
1. Dress for the Destination.
Where you are dictates your final look. Check the weather before you leave so you know exactly what to pack.
2. Follow the Dress Code.
The formality of the invite gives you context clues. Got a text? Style dark-wash jeans with a fun top. Received a formal invite in the mail? Wear a little black dress (or set).
3. Consider Your Crowd
Who you’re with sets the tone. A date night look is different from a family gathering.
Our Top 5 Style Tips
Go for Textures
Silk, satin, sequins, and shineliven up the party. Plus, they photograph well.
Make It Rich
Jewel tones, metallics, and shades of chocolate feel indulgent and celebratory.
Bring a Coat
Your jacket should be moment-making part of your final look.
Make a Statement
Focus on one statement piece—a colorful heel, bold necklace, or show-stopping jacquard—and let it shine.
Add Something Fun
Carry a cute clutch, like this one from Olympia le Tan, finish with sparkling jewels.
London
A timeless holiday party dress, this stunning jacquard look speaks for itself and pairs beautifully with fur and velvet. Cynthia’s tip: finish the look with a light beige bag for contrast that feels fresh.
New York City
Watching the ball drop? Wear an all-back NYE outfit paired with a playful heel and a shimmering bag to stand out.
Palm Beach
Partying at the Breakers or by the beach, this etherial blue dress is sure to make waves in the best way possible.
Stowe
For a cozy cabin feel, pair cords with a sweater and boots. Start your year off right feeling your coziest.
Newport Beach
Ending the year at a rooftop bar? This light weight gold knit dress has just the right amount of shine and warm chocolate heels for finish the festive, yet breezy look. Cynthia might just wear this for her own California New Year’s.
FAQs
Can I wear sequins for New Year’s Eve?
Anything that sparkles is wonderful for New Year’s Eve parties. Think diamonds, metallics, sequins, and more. Gilded glam like a sequined skirt, diamond earrings, or a clutch fit the sprit of the night, but just choose one statement and stick with it. If you’re going with sequins, stay away from bold colors and prints.
I’m not into sparkle. What else can I wear to feel festive?
Finer fabrics, that you would wear to a cocktail party or black tie gala, look great on New Year’s Eve. Silk, statin, crepe, jacquard, and chiffon are elegant and move beautifully. Plus, these softer, more refined fabrics photograph better than a simple cotton.
Can I wear jeans for NYE?
It depends! For more casual events, a pair of jeans and a nice top work well. Look at our cocktail and black tie guides for tips on what to wear if you’re invited to a more formal party.
