It doesn’t hurt to think one step ahead for the New Year celebrations, especially with Christmas around the corner. As we approach the final weeks of 2022, we’re ready to usher in the new year with a fresh start. Whether you’re planning a small gathering at home or keeping things low profile with a relaxing staycation, hunting for the ideal New Year's Evening dresses is crucial in this situation. It’s a tradition where the New Year’s Eve celebrations are all about feasting with a glamorous outfit on display. Dressing up for the occasion is a guaranteed mood-booster while increasing your confidence.

Spoil yourself with a new party dress to commemorate the new year. For sustainable practices, it’s essential to be mindful of what you’re purchasing. Think about how you can wear this dress again for other occasions, such as summer parties, holidays, and lunch outings. With Goddiva curated selections, you will adore the look and feel of each outfit to carry with you for seasons to come. 

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 favourite blouse. While anything you wear will undoubtedly work, if you really want to make it foolproof, you should stick to a few specific style rules to help you master your look. Because come on—who doesn't want a killer outfit?

To give you the rundown on the tricks to know, we hit up stylist Miss Rhea, of Goddiva, and had him 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 New Year's Evening dresses inspired clothing. 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,” Rhea says.

Try to Be Unique

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

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,” Rhea advises.

Standout Piece

“I see a lot of women wear everything at once—sparkly dress, lots of jewellery, shiny makeup—and it feels too overdone,” says Rhea. “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.”

Embrace Movement

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

Try Sequins

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