New Year's Eve lookbook

Taking a look at the colourful fashion trends of 2021, I’m so excited to see the styles popping up ahead of New Year’s Eve. One of my favourite holidays, there’s nothing better than getting glammed up to celebrate with the people closest to you – especially to mark the end of another pretty rubbish year.

To keep this outfit inspiration budget-friendly, I’ve provided links to many high street shops which tend not to be sustainable. However, in the run-up to Christmas I’d like to remind readers to consider more ethical resources and maybe use this style guide to search charity and vintage shops. Although this is more difficult for a variety of reasons, from budgets to sizing, I have tried to include timeless pieces so they can be worn repeatedly in different styles and situations. Happy shopping!

1. Sequins

With inspiration from the 60s disco scene seeming to take over the runways this year, sequins are bound to be a hit this New Year's Eve. Their timelessness makes for a perfect outfit in neutral shades of black or silver that emulates the Studio 54 disco balls. This dress retailing at £39.99 from H&M is my favourite sequin pick.

2. Feathers

Similarly, the subtlety of a feather trim became popular again for its versatility and chicness. I’ve always loved this style but since the Michael Kors and Seen Users dresses hit stores, I’ve been seeing this gorgeous look everywhere. While those examples are well out of range for a student budget, this River Island dress retailing at £38 is a perfect backup choice.

3. Corset Dress

Corsets also came back in style as politics and activism took shape in fashion with women reclaiming their right to shapewear and being in control of their own sexuality. Another timeless colour, brown, remained popular this year and this £25 dress from I Saw It First is perfect for that glamorous NYE look.

4. Prairie Dress

Femininity became less of a dirty word this year and comfortable floy styles could be seen to take over TikTok feeds. Comfort is key, especially if we’re going for a big NYE meal, and this dress from ASOS retailing at £38 will limit any bloating discomfort or (unnecessary) stress and embarrassment, while simultaneously looking free and fun.

5. Block Colour Power Suit

With power suits taking over the red carpet this year, colour doesn’t just have to come in the form of elegant dresses – and I love how Zendaya showed this in her pink Alexander McQueen suit on Good Morning America. This affordable alternative from Zara, retailing at £29.99 (blazer) and £19.99 (trousers), comes in two shades of pink or a shade of blue which I think will be very popular as we come into 2022 – especially as periwinkle was named the Pantone colour of 2022.

6. Animal Print

Another trend reminiscent of the 60s, animal print, seemed to be everywhere from fashion to home decor to stationery this year. This £29.99 Jaguar patterned chiffon from H&M looks comfy and chic, while also staying away from the more common leopard and zebra prints.

7. Knitted

As we face colder weather during the winter months, knitted looks make for both practical and stylish outfits. This ribbed dress from River Island retailing at £48 is in a chic shade of green, perfect for a laid back night. It is guaranteed to keep you warm in the British weather and its versatility will allow you to restyle it as we enter 2022.

8. Cyber Swirl

Shades of blue, green and orange have been popular throughout 2021 and are predicted to remain in style into the new year. We're also seeing cyber styles, which have taken inspiration from the indie sleaze of vaporwave from the noughties, popping up more. As we become more reliant on technology, this almost matrix-style futuristic look is bound to become trendy as we continue into the mid-2020s. This £38 dress from Jaded London is a great choice for those more interested in risque fashion.

Edited by Katie Wheatley