Our best buying guide for New Year's dresses

Dec 26, 2011 5:00 AM by Jessica Padykula

Posted in Beauty & Style / Fashion & Style

Ring In The
New Year In Style

The holidays are here, which means the New Year is right around the corner. We know you want to look good and we’re here to help. No matter what your budget may be, we have some serious dress-piration for you. From mod minis and sexy shifts to fabulous floor-sweeping frocks, you’re bound to find something you love on our list of New Year`s dresses.

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Dresses for $500+

Two-tone silk

You won't have to make too much of an effort to look fabulous in this stunning Halston Heritage two-tone silk-chiffon gown (net-a-porter.com, $645). Shades of bright red and coral intertwine beautifully, made even more eye-catching by the ruched waist and artfully twisted straps. Pair with silver jewelry to really make the colors pop.

Drop mini

Make a seriously stylish entrance with this silk Vera Wang one shoulder drop mini dress (marissacollections.com, $795). We love the Grecian feel of this fashionably flirty frock and the flattering way it shows off both toned shoulders and gorgeous legs. The pale golden hue would benefit from basic black accessories to not detract from the dazzling design.

Darling dots

We swooned when we saw this gorgeous Diane von Furstenberg gown featuring all-over polka dots – the must-have pattern of the moment (net-a-porter.com, $685). The ravishing royal blue dress isn't just about the dots – we also love the ruched shoulders, drop waist and easy sophistication.

Pink plaid

Vivienne Westwood knows how to design a party dress and this ultra-cute pink plaid frock is no exception (my-wardobe.com $602). Pink and green taffeta plaid makes this a dress to get noticed in. We particularly love the flattering cowl neck and fun fold-over pockets.

Luxe & ladylike

Some years you want to go bold (hello, pink plaid) and other years are all about stylish sophistication. If you're feeling more like opting for something truly elegant as the New Year rolls around, we suggest this D&G black and green silk sleeveless dress (farfetch.com, $578) with a high collar, bead embellishments at the trim and beautiful descending pleats along the skirt.

Beautiful bling

The right accessories are essential to complete your look of New Year's Eve party perfection. We handpicked some of the pieces we're currently coveting. New Years Eve bling

Spice up your basic black dress with one of these playful bracelets that come in a few fun hues like lemon, mint green and coral (jcrew.com, $30). Each piece of arm candy features faceted glass stones for a hint of celebratory sparkle.

If you're planning on going strapless to your New Year's party, we suggest a bib necklace, which can really make a style statement. This gorgeous chunky braided bib necklace in brass with leather backing is perfect for adding interest to a low-cut or sweetheart neckline (calypsostbarth.com, $350).

A metallic clutch is just the thing you need to take your ensemble up a notch. We love this simple but stylish design (zara.com, $100). We're partial to the gold, but this cute clutch also comes in silver.

Sometimes all you need to really make your outfit sing is the right pair of statement earrings. We suggest this pretty pair that sparkles with a smattering of rhinestones (otte.com, $60).

You can count on Swarovski to create a ring that really sparkles. The elegant crystal ring is crafted in faceted clear crystal with silver-plated inner lining (Swarovski.com, $190) for a piece that would make a great addition to any New Year's outfit.

Finish your look with an easy, elegant updo or beautiful braided look.