The Cool Girl's Guide to Dressing for NYE

You may already know exactly how you want to dress on New Year’s Eve. Perhaps that’s your go-to dress-and-heels combo, or maybe it’s a more toned-down look consisting of jeans and your favorite blouse. While anything you wear will undoubtedly work, if you really want to impress, you should stick to a few specific style rules to help you stand out in the best way possible. Because come on—who wants to look like everyone else?

To give you the rundown on the tricks to know, we hit up stylist Alex Sweterlitsch, founder of @fashioninstant, and had her spill on the six rules of dressing cool for New Year’s Eve. Some of these tricks you may already know (and follow!), while others may be new and worth testing out this season. Keep scrolling to learn more. Plus, shop NYE-inspired clothing too. We promise there’s a little something for everybody.

Don't Forget About Fit

“I like to follow a fabric-to-fit formula—simple fabrics should be on a tailored silhouette, while loud fabrics should fall away from the body. Rich velvet = fitted. Gold metallic lamé = loose,” Sweterlitsch says.

Wayf Roslyn Twist Front Midi Dress ($118)

Jaggar Diamante Slingback Pumps ($168)

Be Unique

“On holidays like this when everyone tends to follow the same style formula, it’s important to try to be unique,” Sweterlitsch tells us. “I love the idea of women wearing a silk pantsuit in a rich color or a jumpsuit; it’s not only a nice change from all the body-con sequinned dresses but also more comfortable.”

Yumi Kim Disco Fever Jumpsuit ($288)

City Chic Attraction Strapless Jumpsuit ($96)

Gorjana Luna Studs ($50)

Go for Platforms or Block Heels

“While there’s a secret to wearing high heels without any pain, choosing shoes with a platform or block heel gives a nod to retro style and keeps comfort in mind. Whatever you do, please don’t ever remove your shoes,” Sweterlitsch advises.

Sam Edelman Aretha Loafer Pumps ($105)

Villa Rouge Geraldine Sandals ($150)

Pick One Standout Piece

“I see a lot of women wear everything at once—sparkly dress, lots of jewelry, shiny makeup—and it feels too overdone,” says Sweterlitsch. “A nice style juxtaposition is picking one standout part of your outfit (like a great pair of earrings) and wearing it with a tuxedo blazer and skinny jeans.”

Stella + Ruby Crystal Drop Earrings ($45)

Good American Long Blazer Dress ($235)

Embrace Items With Movement

“I’ve styled many party looks, and one of my favorite things to incorporate is something with movement,” says Sweterlitsch. “Fringe or feathers look amazing on a dance floor.”

Tahari Sleeveless Fringe Hem Shift Dress ($178)

Cinq à Sept Narcissa Top ($295)

Try Unexpected Sequins

“If you want to wear sequins, and by all means, you should, do so unexpectedly,” Sweterlitsch tells us. “A cool pair of trousers is a nice alternative to anything tight and mini.”