Beauty...
By Caitlin Burnett
And just like that it’s almost 2022—somehow we’re nearing the end of the year and right in the thick of holiday season. By now you’ve probably got your holiday looks planned and gifts en route, so there’s one more task to check off your list: a New Year’s Eve dress. While this task is more fun than most, it can still be a bit stressful amongst the sea of other things on your end of the year to-do list. So we took it upon ourselves to find the absolute best party dresses to close out the year with.
The perfect NYE party dress touches on at least one of a few key themes: a fun pop color, sequin details, metallic elements, bold silhouettes, or silky fabrics. Each of these elements adds a festive twist to any dress, making it feel particularly special and celebratory—basically everything you want in a NYE dress. We found nine dresses that absolutely nail this feeling, from sequin minis to crystal embellishments to backless numbers. Below are the best party dresses to ring in 2022!
Meet the perfect beaded mini. Retrofête is famous for their glitzy party dresses, and this one stands out above the rest with its plunging neckline, crystal-embellished straps, and off-white color. Paired with strappy heels and embellished earrings, this dress was made to be photographed in.
Keep it classic, but with a twist. This chic mini features a classic one shoulder design with asymmetrical hem, plus ruching all down the side making it hug your body in all the right places. The ultra-flattering black silhouette allows you to add bold accessories if you wish, or keep it simple with classic pieces.
Can I hear a little commotion for the dress?! The front is a classic square-neck midi, and when you turn around it’s all about the back—featuring an open silhouette with sexy strap details. This is one of those dresses you’ll buy for New Year’s and end up wearing time and time again thanks to its versatile nature and flattering fit.
Hello, sequins! This Amanda Uprichard mini is as festive as it gets—glam sequins, high neck, open back, and an elevated off-white hue. If champagne were a dress, this would be it. Pair with crystal earrings and a bold lip for the ultimate NYE look.
Another fuschia moment! High-saturation hues were one of 2021’s biggest trends, so it’s only appropriate to send the year off wearing one. The open neckline and mini length give it a sexy twist while the wrap silhouette makes it ultra flattering. The little crystal buttons on the sleeves just add an extra touch of glamour to an already extraordinary dress.
Talk about a bold silhouette—the corset-style top combined with the exaggerated A-line skirt gives this the ultimate flirty vibe. Combine that with the fact that it’s covered in sequins and you’ve got the world’s best party dress. Oh, and the back laces up like a classic corset as an added bonus.
This dress is not for the faint of heart. The textured fabric, exaggerated sleeves, and crystal-embellishment at the wrists create one seriously cool look. Bring the drama this year with this Alexander Wang number and a pair of killer heels.
If you’re in the mood for color, look no further than this Ref mini. The emerald hue is simply stunning, and the mock neck and wrap waist are as flattering as can be. This is also a dress that looks ultra-chic with tights if you live in a colder climate, so you can look festive ringing in the New Year without getting frostbite.
Party in the back is right—this Shona Joy slip dress is one for the books. The gorgeous gold color is guaranteed to garner compliments, while the open back and pretty bodice details create the perfect party dress. Equal parts elegant and festive, this one was made for New Year’s Eve photos.