The presents are wrapped, the stockings are stuffed and all available couches are now occupied by long-lost relatives. As usual, we’re beginning to think about how we can fashionably bling in the new year. While visions of bubbly champagne and equally effervescent party dresses are dancing in our heads, we’re in no mood to hit the mall—or to shell out much more dough—in the name of New Year’s Eve party wear.
What’s a girl to do? Turn to our little black dresses, of course! The ones that already hang in our closets, fit us perfectly and, most importantly, won’t require us to do battle with the masses who will soon swarm the malls with returns in hand. But opting for your standard LBD dress doesn’t have to mean skipping out on the bling. (Really, what would New Year’s Eve be without the sequins and confetti?) We’ve selected a few bright, shimmering pretties sure to jazz up your favorite black number.
And, to get you in the mood for some light-hearted New Year’s fun, we’ve created a little fashion game inspired by the choose-your-own-adventure books we loved as kids. So start with your favorite LBD and add glimmering statement pieces and sparkling accessories as you go along. Go big, bold and adventurous with your New Year’s Eve fashion choices—it’s the best way to start a fun and oh-so-fashionable 2010!
1. Strapless LBD: This strapless knit dress has everything we could ever want in an LBD, including pockets and a neckline ripe for accessorizing. Plus, it’s perfect for adding luminous winter layers. Strapless Ponte Knit Dress, 7 for All Mankind.
2. Sequin Blazer: When it comes to blazers, this isn’t a man’s world anymore. Take this silver blazer. It may be a bit reminiscent of Michael Jackson’s style, but it’s shrunken and completely fitted for a woman. Gorgeous! Sequined Blazer, 7 for All Mankind.
3. Glam Top: This creamy raindrop sequin top solves two dressy dilemmas: It warms cold shoulders without creating bulk and adds an instant dose of glamour to a simple dress. Raindrop Sequin Top, French Connection.
4. Colorful Crystal Necklace: With its brilliant kaleidoscope of colors, this necklace is so eye catching, you won’t need much else. We suggest pairing it with the purple pumps that we’ll be getting to very soon—patience, dears! Disco Fever Necklace, Kate Spade.
5. Metallic Leaf Necklace: This necklace’s flurry of two-toned metallic leaves will draw all eyes upward to your pretty face—perfect for when he’s searching the crowd to lock lips with you at midnight. Four Row Leaf Drops Necklace, Kenneth Jay Lane.
6. Purple Platforms: Suede is seasonal, ruffles are festive and purple is so very on trend, all of which make this pair of platform almond-toed pumps the perfect New Year’s Eve party shoe. Marcia Pump, Vince Camuto.
7. Sequin Pumps: If we’ve said it once, we’ve said it a million times: Nothing screams holiday chic like sequins and sparkle. And nothing says stunning like these Chinese Laundry pumps. Women’s Lady Bug Pump, Chinese Laundry.
