by Irene Steele
Sequins, sparkles, satin, feathers and velvet season, a.k.a December, is officially in full swing and the search for apt high-octane outfits for the festive parties and brunches is ON! That weird period between Christmas and New Years Eve (Betwixtmas) when you don’t know what day it is, when festive leftovers, boxes of chocolates and mince-pies are enjoyingly consumed on a daily basis as well as all the cheesy Christmas holiday movies on Netflix one can watch – is also a time where we give one last hurrah to the holiday season and year. New Years Eve is an occasion to fill our glasses again and don the most sparkliest and fabulous outfit, whether you’re staying in or going out or haven’t thought about it yet – so with this in mind, let’s focus on our NYE wardrobe.
Whether you’re going to a black tie event (and we know there are lots of these in the UAE), for a romantic dinner, boat party, brunch, clubbing, bbq or party at home with family and friends or even on the sofa – New Years Eve is a real excuse to dress up. It signals the need to dig out your favourite party outfit or buy an entirely new one, get glam and see in the good vibes for the year ahead.
The name of the game on New Years Eve is to wear whatever makes you feel your best as you welcome a new year ahead. Here are some ideas I’ve put together for your perfect NYE:
Black tie:
You can never be overdressed when it comes to Black Tie events, not least when it’s New Year’s too. For this occasion, I recommend a slinky sequin dress that will twinkle under the lights, a pair of killer heels for height, statement clutch bag and earrings.
Brunch:
For an evening brunch on NYE, this will also be quite a dressy affair. Again think sequins or feathers – whether that’s a skirt, shorts, jumpsuit, dress or top. Pair your outfit with comfortable and glam heels, boots or sparkly flats (especially if there’s dancing involved!) and accessories and you’re good to go!
House Party:
Parties at home can definitely veer more towards the casual side – but let’s not forget it’s NYE so even if you’re wearing your trusty and most comfortable denim jeans – pair them with a shimmery, sequinned or feather top and low heels to add that touch of glamour. Again, depending on the dress code – a NYE party at home can be a full-blown dressy affair so sequins, satin and velvet are your best friends here.
Boat Party:
Living in the UAE gives us ample and fabulous opportunities for lavish boat and yacht parties. What better way to see in the New Year than a boat party taking in the amazing skylines of UAE Emirates such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi. You can opt to be comfortable on a boat – flats and maxi-dresses work well – but again it’s NYE, think a long satin or sparkly maxi-dress and wedges or heels.
Out Out:
There are a multitude of glam, happening and ‘it’ restaurants and clubs especially in Dubai hosting fabulous NYE events so if you’re planning on spending your NYE in one of the ‘places to be seen at’ – you need to go ‘all out’ with your attire. Sequinned and feather mini-skirts are having a moment, they look great with a fabulous pair of heels or knee-high boots. Wear yours with a fitted jumpsuit (velvet would be a bonus) for a killer NYE look.
Home on the sofa:
Not gonna lie – this is probably where I will be! So if you’re joining me, I will be wearing my most fabulous Sleeper pajamas adorned with detachable feathers on the legs and the cuffs, enjoying a glass of something and watching the world ring in the New Year on TV. Of course, your cosiest Christmas pj’s are also apt for this activity!
To conclude, remember to be a little unconventional. It’s New Year’s Eve so it’s the perfect time to get out of your comfort zone and experiment with something that you’ve never tried before plus remember to have as much fun as you can since this night won’t be coming again for another year!
HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!