There’s a lot of pressure to really go for it with the sparkle and shine during the holidays, especially on the last day of the year. Razzle-dazzle attire is certainly fun and essential for the most glittering of personalities; these types practically salivate at the thought of a paillette mini or sparkling sheath. But even if you’re not pining for the glitziest number out there, you’re likely wondering how to wear a sequin dress more casually on New Year’s Eve. It can indeed be done, and done incredibly well.
Whether you’re attending a moderately fancy fête or a low-key holiday hang at home, sequins are never more appropriate than on New Year’s Eve — yes, even when the vibe is laidback. You want an outfit that’s spirited without being a total shine fest because, let’s be honest, even the most hardcore minimalist will have a hard time resisting an impeccable sequin slip. The solve is mixing a sparkly dress with casual staples like knits, jackets, tees, and even sneakers and layering them in a way that reads low-key luxe.
This might sound complicated, but it’s not. Though if you’re unconvinced, pro-advice from three fashion insiders will certainly put your mind at ease. Ahead, scroll on for their savvy sequin tips, plus shop their picks for a look that will (casually) stun at the stroke of midnight. What’s more, you can easily apply these tips well into 2019 to get plenty of wears out of your elected sequin dress. In fact, re-wearing more clothes in your closet makes for a totally sound (and sustainable) style resolution. Just some sartorial food for thought.
Michelle LeBlanc, Founder And Owner Of MILLE
Michelle LeBlanc, founder and owner of the online boutique, MILLE, says that a ‘90s Kate Moss vibe is an effortlessly cool way to dress down a sequin dress. "I like the idea of throwing a motorcycle or jean jacket over a sequin dress with tights and a slim ankle boot,” says LeBlanc. To finish, a modestly glitzy earring — aka not a dripping chandelier — does the trick.
If you're working with a swankier silhouette, a color-coordinated top helps to tone things down.
If you’re hoping for something a bit cozier and a touch more sophisticated LeBlanc says “an oversized mohair sweater can bring a glitzy sequin skirt down to earth.” For an easygoing finish, fanciful flats and a simple pendant bring the right amount of spirit.
Jessica Raiter, Fashion Director of 11 Honoré
If you’re planning to wear a tank or strappy sequin dress, Jessica Raiter, fashion director of the plus-size luxury site, 11 Honoré recommends styling one over a graphic tee or turtleneck and if there isn’t too much bulk on top, layer a bright sweatshirt over a sequin dress for cool-girl vibes. “My advice for all sizes and figures is to accentuate your assets: Don’t hide a small waist under an oversized top; show off your great legs in a mini but balance with more coverage on top; layer thin tops or bodysuits under dresses where bra straps or arm coverage is a concern,” Raiter says.
As an alternative to a graphic tee, bodysuit, or oversized sweater, layer a printed turtleneck underneath a sequin dress for a relaxed, yet bold effect — it’s a great way to conceal a bra when you’re working with flimsier straps, too.
Caroline Maguire, Fashion Director At Shopbop
For your most casual New Year’s Eve affair, Shopbop fashion director, Caroline Maguire says, “I like to pair sequin dresses with a pair of sneakers to dress it down a bit. If it’s short, layering a pair of biker shorts underneath will do the trick as well! Throw on a topper and you’re good to go.”
For New Year's Eve and after, classic white sneakers and a cool jacket offset a gilded dress just right.
