Shopping·12 min read

New Year’s Eve Party Outfits That Are Actually Comfortable

comfy-new-years-header
Design: theSkimm | Photos: Anthropologie, Banana Republic
December 4, 2023

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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 found sequined 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.

maxi-dress
Banana Republic

A maxi dress to help you stand out from the crowd…

This floor-length, shimmery maxi dress truly takes our breath away. The sheath styling ensures you’ll be able to move if you’re dancing all night long. Plus, the back slit subtly reveals your party shoes. After you’ve turned heads for the occasion, wear it again on a tropical vacation. One can dream. ($200, Banana Republic)

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sequin-midi-dress
Abercrombie & Fitch

A plunging sequin midi dress…

This midi is a stunner, from the allover black sequins to the back slit. The long sleeves are key to not freezing your way to midnight, and the plunging neckline is surprisingly secure, so you don’t even need to wear a bra if that’s your thing. Just add a slicked-back bun and you’re out the door. ($130, Abercrombie & Fitch)

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versace-heels
Saks OFF 5TH

A heeled sandal worth splurging on…

Okay, we’re obsessed. These Versace sandals are exquisite, from the flared block heel to the signature gold hardware. They come in black or hot pink and would look great paired with tights and a mini skirt or sequin dress. They’re season-less, so they’ll quickly become your go-to shoe for next year. These won’t be in stock for long, so don’t wait. ($519.99, Saks OFF 5TH)

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metallic-jumpsuit
Nordstrom

A metallic jumpsuit for a one-and-done outfit…

This tinsel-like jumpsuit will keep you stress-free up until your New Year's plans. The stretchy fabric is extremely comfortable and accentuates all the right places while keeping you covered. The sheer sleeves and front tie details are just an added bonus. ($109, Nordstrom)

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strapless-dress
Rebdolls

A ruched bodycon dress to show off your curves…

Trust us, this bodycon dress will hug you in all the right places, while the metallic stretch fabric won’t be constricting or keep you from hitting the dance floor. The allover ruching is so pretty and the midi length is just right. Pair with a great pair of heels and you’ll kill in it. (Shop all deals, Rebdolls)

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sweater
Anthropologie

A festive sweater if you like to keep it casual…

This eyelash sweater is soft and comfy, looks great with jeans and trousers, and hits just the right festive note without all the frills. It has a cute open back with a tie and comes in four colors, but we’re partial to the glittering navy. ($128, Anthropologie)

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statement-boots
Free People

A pair of statement boots you’ll wear more than you think…

Once we saw these boots, we couldn’t stop thinking about them. They’re suede and adorned with various sizes of sparkling rhinestones. The pointed toe is timeless, the block heel is comfortable, and they come in black or tan. Throw them on for birthday parties, bachelorette trips, or any night out on the town. They make any outfit more fun. ($248, Free People)

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red-mini
Nordstrom

A red mini dress that’s too good to be true…

Stop traffic in this mini-length, sequin-covered mini dress in a fiery red. The best part? The swingy silhouette is not tight at all, so whether you’re headed to a nice dinner or preparing to be on your feet, you’ll be comfortable until you’re finished celebrating. The high neck and bow in the back makes this one of the chicest New Year’s options we’ve ever seen. ($395, Nordstrom)

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Bodysuit
Honeylove

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

Or even under your favorite pair of jeans. It has 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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Relaxed velvet pants
Spanx

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

They’re wide-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 you won’t be sweating. They’ll hit just at your ankle with a fun front slit, so you can wear them with heels or flats. ($128, Spanx)

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A casual black slip dress
Amazon

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. 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 want to wear something you feel confident in. ($54.90, Amazon)

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A velvet knotted headband
Lele Sadoughi

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 an issue. ($49, Lele Sadoughi)

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An accordion skirt with an elastic waist
Amazon

An accordion skirt with an elastic waist…

It’s the perfect number to twirl in. While it will help give your waistline more definition, it won’t squeeze or pinch. It comes in several different colors, so you can go bold with pink or purple, or play it subtle with black or silver. The options are endless. ($37.99+, Amazon)

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red-mini-dress
Anthropologie

A red mini dress that comes in a wide variety of sizes…

This sequined red mini was too perfect not to include as well. What makes it unique is the ruched styling and cowl neck. Plus, the color is just the right shade of party red, and it comes in standard, petite, and plus sizes. Add tights and heels to complete your New Year's Eve ’fit. ($158, Anthropologie)

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A one-shoulder, long-sleeve sequin shirt
Amazon

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

Want to stick with your go-to jeans? 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. ($30.99+, Amazon)

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

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 option. We’re talking style married with comfort. They’re knit from Rothy’s signature thread made from plastic water bottles. The best part is that they don’t require a break-in period — just slip them on and get going. If they get dirty, simply toss them in the washing machine. FYI: The brand recommends sizing up if you’re between sizes. ($155+, Rothy’s)

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A simple double-breasted black blazer
Banana Republic

A double-breasted 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. It’s perfect to wear with jeans when you want to look effortlessly cool. ($180+, Banana Republic)

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Heeled black boots
Aerosoles

Heeled black boots that you’ll actually want to 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
J.Crew

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 if you’re in a chilly restaurant, but it’ll also double as an everyday winter accessory. It’s warm, cozy, and literally feels like butter. ($198, J.Crew)

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strapless-midi-dress
Reformation

An off-the-shoulder midi dress begging to be accessorized…

If you’re like us, it’s all about the accessories. This LBD is the perfect blank canvas. Style it up with some flashy earrings or party boots (why not both?) and rest assured that the off-the-shoulder neckline and relaxed fit won’t be constricting if you’re hitting the dance floor. ($248, Reformation)

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velvet-dress
Amazon

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 three holiday-appropriate colors and has a tie to accentuate your waist. ($25.90, Amazon)

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