Happy New Year! That’s what most of us will shout when the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve. Some might be at a huge party with a glass of champagne in hand; others might be cozy at home watching TV, happy to avoid the crowds. Whatever your plans, you’ll probably still wear something a bit sparkly—after all, dressing up in sequins is half the fun of welcoming 2026. But me? I’d rather be caught dead than wear sequins this holiday season. Hear me out.

I’m not a holiday Grinch or anything. I’m excited for New Year’s Eve too! I just hate the idea of being told what to wear—or following a uniform that everyone else will have on. Shimmering crystals and dazzling metallics are the unofficial dress code for the night, and the problem is, I already wear both of those things all the time. I do New Year’s dressing year-round. At the office, I’ll often stroll in wearing my metallic Saint Laurent boots. For happy hour with friends, I’ll change into grosgrain-trimmed trousers and a velvet blazer. Yes, I’m tooting my own horn—I simply don’t need a holiday to dress snazzy! Sue me.

By the end of the year, the idea of disco-ball dressing feels anticlimactic. When you wear sequins on a regular Tuesday, sporting them for a New Year’s send-off just seems tired. Aren’t you supposed to step into 2026 feeling like a new-and-improved version of yourself? I’d argue that a New Year’s look should be something completely fresh and unexpected. And no, I’m not saying that those who do embrace glitzy style on the 31st are basic or anything. If that feels new and exciting to you on the big night, then go for it! For me, though, I want to experiment with actually toning things down and trying a whole new fashion vibe altogether.

So what should a glitzy fashion lover like me wear when the countdown begins? I’d say start by considering the New Year’s Eve vibe and location. I’ll be ringing in 2026 while watching Robyn perform in Brooklyn, so I’m thinking of channeling a darker, sheer, sexy mood. I just so happen to have a mesh Jean Paul Gaultier top that’s begging to be worn with my favorite black dress pants. To me, that feels like a look worth celebrating in—stepping into 2026 with something I wouldn’t typically wear, like a new fashion identity or a new version of myself. Plus, I can always slip right back into my sequins come January 1st.

Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of FAQs about choosing not to dress up for a glamorous New Years Eve designed to sound like questions from real people

FAQs Choosing a LowKey New Years Eve

Beginner Definition Questions

Q What does not dressing up for a glamorous NYE even mean
A It means choosing comfort and personal preference over the traditional expectation of wearing fancy clothes like sequined dresses suits or high heels Think cozy sweaters nice jeans pajamas or whatever makes you feel good

Q Isnt it depressing or boring to stay in on New Years Eve
A Not at all For many people its a relief It can be a peaceful intentional and deeply enjoyable way to reflect on the past year and set intentions for the new one without the pressure crowds and expense

Q Do I have to stay home if Im not getting dressed up
A Absolutely not You can have a lowkey gathering at a friends house go to a casual neighborhood bar enjoy a nature walk or have a cozy dinner at a relaxed restaurant The key is avoiding the glamorous scene

Benefits Reasons

Q What are the benefits of a lowkey NYE
A Major benefits include saving a significant amount of money avoiding stressful crowds and transportation enjoying genuine relaxation and starting the new year feeling rested instead of exhausted

Q I feel social pressure to go all out How do I deal with that
A Remember that FOMO often promises more than it delivers Be confident in your choiceyoure prioritizing your wellbeing You can always say Im doing a quiet night in this year to recharge which most people will understand

Q Can it still feel special if Im in my pajamas
A Yes You can create special moments make fancy snacks watch your favorite movies play board games write down your years highlights or have a champagne toast at midnight The special comes from your intention not your outfit

Common Problems Logistics

Q What if my friends or partner really want to go to a glamorous party
A Communication is key Suggest a compromise Could we