What to Wear On New Year's Eve

A New Year's Eve outfit isn't just any party look - it's the outfit you'll greet a whole new year in, so it’s only natural that you’ll know you want to look your absolute best in this particular ensemble. 

Whether you're spending NYE with family or friends, at a humble house party or a grand event, Joe's fashion experts have plenty of ideas for chic NYE outfits that ensure you'll see in the new year with showstopping style. 

In this guide, we'll unpack some of our favourite New Year's Eve looks for women and men to ensure you start the year exactly as you mean to go on—by looking and feeling remarkable!

Don’t leave it til the 31st to pick out the perfect party ensemble. New Year’s Eve is about fun, after all, so ensuring your outfit is planned and prepped in plenty of time will prevent any unwanted “nothing to wear” debacles on the big day. Knowing exactly what outfit and accompanying shoes and accessories you’re wearing ahead of the celebrations will make you feel instantly more confident.

Whether you opt for the ever-classic LBD (little black dress) or a flowing red number, a gorgeous gown is a go-to if you have a formal New Year’s Eve event to attend. For a night out dancing, try a mini dress paired with tights to combat the winter cold, or opt for knee-high boots for an extra layer of warmth.  

Joe’s top tip: Remember, with boots, you can sport your cosiest socks underneath to keep you toasty warm, and nobody will know! Comfort is key, after all, on nights when dancing ‘til dawn is on the agenda. 

Heading to a New Year’s Eve formal gala, or simply feel like being a little more flashy for such a special night? A floor-length maxi dress will make you feel like a glamorous Hollywood star at your New Year’s soiree, especially when you embellish the look with a silky shawl and decadent jewellery. 

If you’re struggling to decide which dress length is best for your New Year’s Eve event, see our guide to maxi, mini, and midi styles.

New Year’s Eve is practically synonymous with sparkles, so it’s the perfect opportunity to wear the shimmeriest outfit you can find. Whether it’s a sequined skirt or a stunning silver top, a glittery outfit makes a sure statement - this new year is your time to shine!

Looking for something a little more unique this party season? Stand out from the influx of dresses by opting for a chic jumpsuit. This style is wonderful for flaunting your figure while staying cosy, especially when paired with heeled boots and a statement jacket.

For an air of luxury, try a jumpsuit in a velvet style. This ultra-soft material is a winter staple that keeps you cosy while adding an air of opulence to your party look.

Want to don a dazzling jumpsuit but feel they’re always too long? We have you covered with our Petite Clothing Range. Here, you’ll find shorter jumpsuit styles that feel tailor-made for perfectly petite frames. 

Shop our Petite Clothing Collection to discover your perfect party piece.

The suited and booted look isn’t just for the gents among us,  Ladies’ tailoring makes for a cocktail party look that’s effortlessly elegant. Step into the new year in an exquisite embroidered waistcoat or beautiful blazer, and you’ll be the picture of style and sophistication. 

This look is especially sharp when matched with a co-ordinated shoe and handbag combo. 

Having a relaxed one this New Year’s Eve? If you’re visiting a casual bar or attending a laid-back gathering, you can never go wrong with the classic ‘jeans and a nice top’. It’s a classic for a reason, after all…

Pick out a pair of jeans that make you feel your best, then add the perfect NYE top. A glittery or sequined shirt would instantly elevate a simple look,  as would a lovely satin or velvet blouse. Finish with your favourite statement earrings to add some understated sparkles to your ensemble.

Watching the fireworks at midnight is a fun New Year's Eve tradition - but it can get a little chilly! That’s why it’s absolutely essential to pick out a warm coat that suits your outfit perfectly.

A fantastic fur coat is a winter favourite, as you’ll always look luxurious and dressed to the nines whenever you throw one on.  A sleek button-down coat is another fittingly smart option, and it has the added benefit of allowing you to reveal your outfit underneath once you step indoors.

The ladies have plenty of options, but what fabulous outfits can gents sport this New Year’s Eve? 

For a formal New Year’s Eve event, a suave suit is the ultimate choice. Exude James Bond cool in the quintessential black and white tuxedo, or shake things up and choose your favourite colour. There’s no need to take the term ‘black tie’ completely literally. Bring the fun with a flaming pink suit, look dapper in blue tailoring, or be devilishly handsome in a red tux.  

Don’t forget to accessorise with classic cufflinks, a smart pocket square and a statement lapel pin. For footwear, we recommend some perfectly polished brogues. 

Shimmer and shine are staples of women’s NYE fashion, but we see no reason that the fellas should be left out of the sparkling fun. Put on a sleek silver waistcoat or a glowing golden blazer this New Year’s Eve to turn some heads. 

Metallic embroidery or patterns over black tailoring is a marvellous option for those who aren’t keen to go all-out glitter.

A striking shirt is a sure way to get into the celebratory mood. Get the party started with some funky florals, or start the new year sporting some paisley patterns. You could even get edgy this year with a skull shirt or make your friends laugh with a novelty print. 

See our guide to styling funky shirts to rock this eye-catching look.

If your New Year’s Eve is a little more local pub than black tie ball, combine your favourite shirt with some smart jeans and a pair of boots. For grungy style and a layer of warmth, throw a distressed leather jacket over the top. Accessorise with a wristwatch and perhaps a bowtie. 

Want something a touch more ‘special occasion’ than jeans? We’re a big fan of chinos.

New Year’s Eve Falls in the dead of winter, so if you’re moving bar-to-bar, you’ll want to layer up with a thick coat to keep you toasty. A military coat or pea coat is slick and sophisticated to wear over tailoring. 

We also recommend choosing a warmer material for your waistcoat and blazer, like sumptuous velvet. This will give your NYE ensemble the perfect balance of warmth and timeless style.

Want more tips on what to wear this festive season? Check out our style guide for all of your Christmas parties. Plus, you can find year-round style advice on our inspiration page.