New Year’s Eve is a time for maximalists to shine. From sequins to feathers and layers-upon-layers of crystal-dotted mesh, the annual event calls for unapologetic glamour. Unless you spend the evening curled up on the sofas in pyjamas with a glass of vino in hand (understandable), there is no excuse not to go all out come December 31.
Style enthusiasts know that party attire carries significant weight in the fashion industry. Paco Rabanne captivated with his iconic paillette pieces during the 1960s, reflecting the growing interest in futurism as a result of the Space Race between the US and Soviet Union. Similarly, Gucci has never shied away from a Maribou feather or a touch of jacquard, especially under former creative director Alessandro Michele.
Models Naomi Campbell and Kate Moss embracing party-girl glamour in Versace, 1999
Blumarine championed cheeky, Y2K themes during the Nineties, platforming pastel tones, diamanté and butterfly motifs (and continues to do so) and Versace dazzled with its metallic palettes, baroque prints and chainmail mini dress worn by supermodels such as Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell.
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As for the brands carrying the baton today? Think 16Arlington for loud, club-ready glitz, Coperni for sleek sensuality, The Attico for plumes o’ plenty and Area for swathes of sparkling crystals.
Gear up for some serious glamour in time for the new year and shop our top ten party dresses below.
Best party dresses for New Year's Eve:
1/10
Strapless Mini Dress
Shushu/Tong
Sparkle in Shushu/Tong this season. The brand's glimmering mini is a classic, topped off with a sleek, square neckline, a structured bodice and a playful, voluminous skirt.
2/10
Gold Sequin Mini Dress
Self-Portrait
No brand does sophisticated evening glamour like Self-Portrait. We love the puffed silhouette of this scene-stealing piece, the perfect balance of modern glamour and femininity.
3/10
Velvet Fitted Dress
Mango
An affordable but timeless choice, Mango's velveteen mini begs for an *add-to-bag* moment with its gently flounced silhouette and sleeveless design.
4/10
Evie Silver Dress
Nadine Merabi
Reflect the magic of the night sky with Nadine Merabi's Evie dress. The striking number boasts a subtly raised neckline, short sleeves, a mini silhouette and dazzling celestial sequin detailing throughout.
5/10
Greta Sunburst Lurex Mini Dress
Kitri
Crafted from a lightweight lurex knit with an unmissable bold sunburst motif jacquard, Kitri's cosy yet chic mini is a true conversation starter. Pair yours with sheer black tights and point-toe heels.
6/10
Nemy Mini Dress
Rebecca Vallance
Tailored from bonded crepe, Rebecca Vallance's Nemy Mini Dress is the powerful pop of pink we all need for party season. Ideal for those wanting to steer away from the classic festive hues (think white, red and green), this jewel-encrusted statement is set to spark conversation at any after-hours shindig.
7/10
The Tish Dress
Debute
Whimsical edge meets high-glam in Debute's beautiful designs. The brand's Tish Dress is firmly topping our winter wish list - its slinky silhouette, gentle puff sleeves and lace panelling making for the most romantic (not to mention enticing) festive frock.
8/10
Quincy Dress
Posse
Timeless, elegant and versatile, Posse's Quincy Dress has 'New Year's' written all over it. Crafted from sumptuous velvet with a square neckline and bow detailing, this luxurious piece is one to cherish forever.
9/10
Heavy Beaded Fringe mini Dress
Topshop
Embrace flapper girl glamour with Topshop's heavily-embellished, silver mini that captures attention with its dynamic fringing. A glittering ode to riotous Roaring Twenties style.
10/10
Dulce Embellished Mini Dress
Rixo
Glimmer under the disco lights in Rixo's Dulce Embellished Mini Dress. This vintage-inspired gem features twinkling beaded embellishments, a scooped neckline, fluted sleeves and a mini fit - celebrating art deco style in all its glory.
How we chose:
Occasion: Depending on your NYE plans, we've sourced pieces to suit all occasions, from hosting at your house to black tie events.
Budget: We've found pieces starting from £35 for those who want a bargain, all the way up to around £1,000, for those who'd like to invest in a statement piece.
HELLO!'s selection is editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items our editors love and approve of. HELLO! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. To find out more visit our FAQ page.
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