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5 Last-Minute NYE Outfit Ideas, Made Up of Things You Already Have

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It’s no secret that picking out the perfect New Year’s Eve look can be stressful. I mean, this time of year is already busy enough — how will you have the time to scour the internet for an on-trend look that’ll probably cost you your entire holiday gift budget?

Don’t worry about rushing to the mall this year, because you can always revamp the classic pieces you’ve been wearing allll year long. Whether you will be partying with your friends, spending quality time with the fam, or hitting up your favorite spots around town, your closet has already got you covered. Plus, it never hurts to be a little more sustainable, especially around this time of year. Here are a few ideas for creating an iconic NYE out of your fave items:

1. Belle of the (disco) ball

 

Rock a simple white dress to stand out in a sea of sequins and LBDs. You can elevate the look with some pops of color—it’s time to break out those heels that have been gathering dust in your closet since summer. Stay warm with a sleek winter coat, and don’t be afraid to offset the minimalism of your dress with a bold lip and statement accessories.

2. Busy, but make it fashion

 

 

For those of you social butterflies who will be rushing from one place to another on the 31st, rely on your trusty blazer for an effortless day to night look that will leave you ready for NYE in no time. Transform that blazer from business casual to absolute glam by wearing form-fitting jeans or leggings and a show-stopping top (preferably sparkly). The contrast between your colorful top and dark blazer adds the extra oomph your NYE outfit needs.

3. Not your ugly holiday sweater

 

 

Sure, December wouldn’t be the same without dragging out your tackiest holiday sweaters. But let New Year’s be known as a sweater party too—don a statement knit on top of a pleated skirt for a unique silhouette and style. Not to mention, this ensemble is perfect for hiding your food baby while still giving you the perfect amount of legroom for getting wild on the dance floor. It’s also great for those of you who have more casual commitments on NYE; why sacrifice comfort for chic when you can have both?

4. Black is the new black

 

 

Want to look/feel like you have your life together for the new year? All you have to do is wear a matching set and you will instantly seem like the most put-together person in the room. If you don’t have a matching set, get in the DIY spirit and find a top and a bottom that are similar shades of the same color. Since that’s going to be the statement piece(s) in your outfit, keep it simple and monochrome in terms of accessories.

5. Dress up your daywear

 

Take your go-to day dress or jumpsuit and turn it into night! Add some darker, more dramatic makeup, some dazzling jewelry on your ears, neck or wrists, and watch as your look transforms. Bonus points for adding some drama with your footwear, whether that may be a pair of block heels or stilettos. 

Whatever you choose to wear on New Year’s Eve, wear it with confidence and you will absolutely own the look. From your workday blazer to your summer whites, each piece in your closet is versatile and an opportunity to exercise your sartorial creativity. Pay a little homage to the clothes that carry the memories of this year!

Cathy Zhang is a California Bay Area transplant in Manhattan, studying Business and minoring in Studio Art at New York University. Cathy also loves learning about the intersection of fashion and technology - Polyvore holds a special place in her heart. In her free time, she enjoys exploring New York City bakeries and trying healthy recipes! Find her on Instagram for live documentation of her escapades: @ckathartic.