Life·11 min read

New Year’s Eve Party Outfits That Are Actually Comfortable

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Design: theSkimm | Photos: Banana Republic, Torrid
Dec 1, 2022

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This post was originally published in December 2021 and has been updated.

It’s almost time to ring in the new year; do you have your outfit ready? If the answer is no — don’t worry. We can’t help but think a step or two ahead. To help you get zhuzhed up for the big ball drop, we rounded up glam party outfits that are actually comfortable. No pinching, pulling, or itching here.

We’ve got options with relaxed fits, some that are a bit more supportive, and outerwear to layer with. We even threw in some shoes. No biggie, we just dressed you from head to toe. 

A bodysuit that can be worn under high-waisted pants or a skirt…

Or even under your favorite pair of jeans. It’s got built-in bust support so you won’t need to wear a bra. Plus its adjustable straps mean you can get the right amount of lift. It’s smoothing, the bottom briefs won’t dig into your skin, and it’ll never ride up. If you’re out on the dance floor, you’ll be able to move and groove and raise your arms without fear of exposure. ($99, Honeylove)

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A pair of sculpting pants with a stretchy waistband…

Sure they look like more formal pants, but they actually feel like leggings. The fabric smooths, so you’ll feel a bit more support than what regular trousers provide. You can wear ’em with a dressy blouse and you won’t have to sacrifice comfort. You’ll be able to move, bend, and stay seated for a while without experiencing a waistband that digs. Trust us — we have a pair and we love them. ($109, Honeylove)

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Relaxed velvet pants you can wear at home or at a restaurant…

They’re straight-legged and won’t cling, so you could treat them as lounge pants too. Thanks to the stretch, you’ll get a bit more room if you’re heading to a big dinner and don’t want to feel constricted. Plus, they’re pretty lightweight, so not something you’ll sweat in. They’ll hit just at your ankle with a fun front slit, so easily a pair of pants you could wear with heels or flats. ($128, Nordstrom)

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A sequin mini dress that’s the definition of roomy…

Slip on a pair of tights and you’ll be good to go. The shift style with adjustable straps ensures you’re comfy all night long. Since there’s not that much coverage up top (hello, bare arms), we suggest layering with a sweater or blazer. ($180, Banana Republic)

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A casual black slip dress you can dress up…

Add some statement earrings, a pair of heels, and you’ll be out the door in under five minutes. Much like the mini dress, we suggest slipping into a pair of tights if the weather is chilly. It’s a little black dress you’ll never tire of, especially when you’re in a pinch and just wanna wear something you feel confident in. And who can resist a price tag like this? Not us. ($49.90, Amazon)

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Sequin pants that are incredibly chic…

These flared-leg pants were made with a party in mind. So whether you’re heading to a friend’s apartment or local bar, these fit the bill. They look great paired with an understated black sweater or turtleneck, but bonus points for wearing the matching top for a full Party Look™. ($40, Eloquii)

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A velvet knotted headband to accessorize with…

Because shoes and jewelry aren’t the only way to show off your holiday style. This headband is the definition of comfortable — it won’t cause any headaches or lingering ear pain. We’ve worn one for hours on end and have never had a fit issue. One Skimm HQ’r swears by ’em. ($49, Lele Sadoughi

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An accordion skirt with an elastic waist…

Aka the perfect number to twirl in. While it will help give your waistline more definition, it won’t squeeze or pinch. It comes in a bunch of different colors, so you can go bold with pink or red, or play it subtle with black or silver. The options are endless. ($19.99+, Amazon)

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A one-shoulder, long-sleeve sequin shirt to wear with jeans…

Wanna stick with your go-to jeans you’ve fully broken in? Just add a dressier top and you’ll be good to go. We’ve worn this one on a number of occasions and love it. It’s flattering and you’ll instantly be party-ready. Plus no one can resist a little sparkle and shine, especially on New Year’s Eve. ($27.99+, Amazon)

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A pair of flats that won’t make your feet ache…

If you’re not in the mood for a night in heels, these shoes are the perfect options. We’re talking style married with comfort. They’re knit from Rothy’s signature thread made from plastic water bottles. FYI: They don’t stretch much, so check out the fit blog and think about sizing up if you’re between sizes. The best part is that they don’t require a break-in period — just slip ‘em on and get going. Oh, and if they get dirty, simply toss them in the washing machine. Good as new. ($149, Rothy’s)

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A double-breasted black blazer to layer over anything and everything…

It’s the wardrobe staple you’ll never regret buying. Wear it to your New Year’s Eve party or to the office next year. It’s made from lightweight and sustainable polyester, so it won’t feel like wearing a heavy jacket. The fit is also pretty roomy, so it’s not a rigid option. Aka it’s perfect to wear with blue jeans when you wanna look effortlessly cool. ($230, Banana Republic)

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A dress that feels as good as it looks…

And that’s saying something. The high neck and subtle side slit say, ‘sophisticated NYE out.’ But the sustainably made, super silky fabric says, ‘I’ve never been comfier.’ A win-win for anywhere the evening takes you. PS: Skimm’rs get 20% off. ($168, Outerknown)*

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A glitter jumpsuit with long sleeves…

Otherwise known as a great party option for when it’s beyond chilly outside. The sweetheart neckline is sure to flatter. And if you stress out over putting together an outfit, a jumpsuit knocks out half the frustration. All you’ve gotta pick are your shoes and earrings. ($47.75, Torrid)

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Heeled black boots that you’ll actually wanna keep on…

Not take off after an hour of wear. The faux leather looks luxe, with the stitched upper adding a bit of polish. The solid block heel helps with comfort, so you won’t have to worry about aching arches. Even if you’re on the move, these keep going along with you (while looking great). ($99, Aerosoles)

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An oversized cashmere wrap that can be worn as a shawl or scarf…

If you’re someone who always feels cold, this wrap will come in handy more times than you can count. It’s an elegant piece that’ll cover your shoulders while you’re moving locations through the night, but it’ll also double as an everyday winter accessory. It’s warm, cozy, and literally feels like butter. ($129.50+, J.Crew)

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A relaxed-fitting strapless mini dress begging to be accessorized…

If you’re like us, it’s all about the accessories. So this baby is a blank canvas. Style it up with some flashy earrings or party boots (why not both?) and be rest assured that the straight neckline and relaxed fit won’t be constricting if you’re hitting the dance floor. ($218, Reformation)

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A velvet dress you can dress up or down…

This is essentially a shirtdress made of soft, non-scratchy velvet that’s swingy enough to make it through a big dinner or all-day affair. Pair it with tights and knee-high boots for effortless vibes. It comes in nine holiday-appropriate colors. Cheers. ($38.98+, Amazon)

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*This denotes a sponsored section.

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