I Hate NYE But Love Dressing Up—5 Fail-Safe Outfits for Every Event

Let's be honest here: Not all of us will be going out this New Year's Eve. While it can be great to go out dancing, there's something equally great about getting dressed up to stay in, and spending the night with your nearest and dearest in your own home. No bar queues, no £££ tickets, and no waiting for a cab home. So, if you are between ideas, there are a lot of perks to choosing to be propped up in your kitchen or on the sofa instead of a busy soirée.

Either way, NYE feels like that last opportunity to get dressed up in something sparkly and festive. I appreciate this sounds rather doom and gloom, but I don't mean it to. For starters, sequins aren't just for Christmas (wear them in the summer, people!), and who says you can't dress up for your sofa? This year, I may even incorporate sequins in my plans to watch the fireworks, stranger things have happened.

There are other options out there of course, which is why I've turned to my favourite fashion people on Instagram to show us how it's done. There are outfits that include sequins, and the pared-back looks that will suit minimalist tastes. There's even a LBD moment that makes any evening feel more eventful. All you really need to know is that each and every one of the below looks can be worn with slippers or heels, the choice is yours. So, keep scrolling for all of my favourite New Year's Eve outfit ideas. See you in 2026!

1. Red Jumper + Satin Skirt + Gold Jewellery

Style Notes: It's not all about sequins and bright colours. You can just as easily get into the "party on the sofa" mood by wearing a satin skirt or dress, and your favourite chunky knit. Wear to dinner, be home by 10, and watch the fireworks from the comfort of your own home. Understated elegance.

Shop the look:

2. Satin Dress + Pumps

Style Notes: A satin dress is one of those timeless party pieces that always feels elevated—luxe, effortless and flattering on nearly every silhouette. Take cues from Kendall Jenner's Christmas Eve look last year, where she embraced a sleek satin gown with a minimalist glam approach that was both festive and refined—this kind of elegant slip or column silhouette works just as well as a party hostess outfit as it does for dancing late into the night.

Shop the Look:

3. Sequin Top + Jeans + Slingbacks

Style Notes: For a look that feels totally NYE, pair a sparkly sequin top with a sharp pair of jeans: it's grounded yet inherently celebratory. The contrast between casual denim and high-impact sequins keeps the outfit from feeling too formal—perfect for house parties or drinks with friends. Complete it with sleek slingbacks to elongate the leg and add a touch of polish.

Shop the Look:

4. Pant Suit + Silver Jewellery

Style Notes: Whether you go full wide-leg tailoring or slim classic cuts, a pant suit is the chic answer to "what do I wear that's different from a dress?" Silver jewellery—especially bold cuffs, layered chains or sculptural earrings—gives the look that party-ready edge. Opt for a fitted blazer and tailored trouser in a luxe fabric (think satin, velvet or suiting with sheen) to make it feel NYE appropriate.

Shop the Look:

5. LBD + Fur Coat + Heeled Sandals

Style Notes: The Little Black Dress is always a classic, but pairing it with a luxe fur (real or faux) instantly takes it from simple to statement. This combo leans into old-Hollywood glamour—perfect for venues with a dressier vibe. Heeled sandals keep the overall look light and elegant, while the fur coat adds texture and warmth. Consider finishing with a bold lip or metallic clutch for extra impact.

Shop the Look: