Everyone has their own unique New Year’s Day traditions. You might spend it watching films in comfy clothes and slippers, or maybe you’ll keep the same energy from the night before with boozy brunch, lunch (and dinner). Or perhaps you wrap up and embark on wholesome wintery walks. Whatever the first of January looks like to you, it’s the perfect chance to refresh and reset your look with stylish New Year’s Day outfits.
If you’re feeling uninspired following a busy Christmas and Boxing Day, take a scroll through the ultimate guide to nailing NYD outfits.
New Year’s Day outfits for couch potatoes
Cosy sofa dwellers, look no further. Start the New Year comfy yet co-ordinated, in the ultimate knitted two-piece from Free People. I rate the beige au lait shade, but there are a whopping twenty three colourways to choose from.
Pop a white funnel neck underneath for maximum warmth – I suggest M&S for fabulously affordable base layers that wash well.
If you haven’t already invested in a super soft, real hide shoe, Just Sheepskin make the best moccasins for less than £100 – I live in the classic chestnut style come winter every year.
Lastly, achieve total snug status with French Connection’s faux fur gilet. I guarantee you won’t want to move from your TV spot.
For party goers
If you intend to continue sipping champagne with your nearest and dearest, you need a statement soiree outfit to keep you going.
This calls for a stand out mini, preferably in a bold print that will keep energy levels up. With Christmas and Boxing Day out of the way, you can pause on the velvet and sequins for New Year’s Day outfits. I have my eye on this leopard print party number with dramatic puff sleeves from Omnes – one of the best affordable eco-friendly brands on the market.
Tights are a must-have with any mini in this cold snap. I recommend a sheer pair with a maximum 20 denier. Calzedonia stock the best tights I have found to date and they’re less than £7. Add walkable platforms that won’t trip you up after a few glasses of fizz, and add a pair of cool-girl pearl earrings – they’re most definitely back for 2023. And finish with some arm (and hand) candy; I love this 70’s inspired cocktail ring and a feather embellished mini bag.
For party goers (who prefer trousers)
Daren’t bare your legs? Opt for a power suit instead and start the year as you mean to go on.
Black leather trousers and blazers have become failsafe style formula for many of us, and so the next step is a leather suit. This faux khaki co-ord will work as separates for the coming months and as a stand out look on NYD itself – and it’s a steal for under £95 for the set.
Layer it over a black lace trim cami to fake a nothing-underneath look. Slip on these gem encrusted black mules from hit Singaporean brand Charles & Keith. I also recommend adding a hair accessory to keep this suit on the fun side of formal for a New Year’s Day outfit – this velvet, pearl-embellished headband will do just the trick. A statement crystal cuff makes for the perfect finishing touch – as do these sparkling huggie hoops.
Top tip: keep your earrings on the small side when wearing a headband to balance the look.
For winter walkers
Your coat is key on long brisk walks – leave December’s caterpillar puffer at home and wrap up in a teddy coat for New Year’s Day outfits instead. Monki’s fluffy, long beige iteration is seriously snuggly and feels a little more glam than a padded version.
Keep the cold at bay with a pair of Uniqlo’s Heattech thermal leggings under your jeans – they sell out and restock every year for good reason.
Weekday is my go-to for good denim. The Voyage high straight jeans in the Splendid Blue shade are totally classic and there’s enough room in them for your secret thermal layers underneath. Throw on an oversized, high necked knit – I rate this striped design from H&M for less than £30.
Hiker boots will be both practical and stylish. Opt for a beige pair instead of black for a January update. Don’t forget a hat and scarf! A matching set will pull your outfit together nicely. Try the cobalt Deni beanie and the frothy Aspen scarf from Hush for a vibrant pop of colour.
For casual lunchers
Smart casual is the best policy for New Year’s day lunch. I adore this wrap around mini kilt by Sandro for its contemporary nod to highland style. Tuck in a ribbed black roll neck for an effortless finish.
Keeping the top half simple means you can add a little something extra on the bottom – switch out your plain sheers for a polka dot pair of tights instead. Knee-high black boots will add the smart factor here – this heeled pair will elongate your legs.
A gold chunky chain will look sleek over your high neck top. And don’t forget to add thick hoops – try the Bold Hoop by D.Louise. Finally zip on a cropped faux leather puffer. Et voilà!