Big plans for NYE? In need of a new party dress?

I’ve always found that party dresses are the most fun to shop for. For the most part, you can wear anything your heart desires. Party dresses break all the rules. We tend to be a little more adventurous in a party dress. Maybe it’s a little shorter or tighter or flashier than we would normally wear…. but, it’s a party! It’s the perfect opportunity to wear something we might not otherwise.

This time of year there is a large inventory of party dresses in all kinds of styles. The current trends are leaning towards short fit & flare skirts, sequins, lace and shimmer. This doesn’t mean that you can’t wear your trusty little black dress to your NYE party. THE LBD will ALWAYS be in style. But if you’re looking to add a new dress to your wardrobe, I would recommend trying something a little outside your comfort zone. There are some gorgeous dresses on the market now and while your first thought might be “that won’t look good on me”, “I’d never wear that”, “I can’t pull that off”… You really need to try stuff on. You might be surprised at how amazing you look in the mirror!

I always try to push clients to try things on that might be out of their comfort zone, especially if it’s a style that I think will work for their coloring or body type. In most cases, they are surprised to see how great it looks. “It’s something I would never have picked out for myself, but I love it.” And it opens up a whole new style for them. Try this when it comes to party dress shopping. The only person, who’s going to see you in the fitting room, is YOU! What have you got to loose?!!

If you like shopping with a friend, that’s even better. Make sure you tell her to be honest! You don’t want her to tell you it looks great just to make you feel good. If the fitting room has the mirrors that go around in a semi-circle, use that. See yourself from all angles so you can be your best critic.

Don’t forget to have fun with it! Half the fun can be buying the dress!

In case you’re interested in some ideas, I have a few dresses selected below to get you started:

Adrianna Papell Embellish Blouson Sheath Dress

This dress incorporates sequins with comfort for a flattering style on a variety of body types.

This fit & flare style incorporates the popular metallic look in a stylish and fun cocktail dress.

If you are looking for something totally different, try out a shiny new romper. This styles shows a little skin without being too over the top!

ML Monique Lhuillier Lace Illusion Dress

Lace is also a big trend this season and popular in a lot of cocktail party dresses available now!

I hope these dresses offer you inspiration for your New Year's party plan!