Start The Year in Style With These 15 New Year's Eve Wedding Guest Dress Picks

The countdown to finding the perfect look begins now.

Three New Year's Eve wedding guest dresses

Photos, left to right: Retrofête, ELOQUII, Rent the Runway

Updated Nov 14, 2023

What better way to ring in the new year than by attending a wedding? New Year's Eve nuptials start the year on an extra-celebratory note but they can also leave guests wondering what to wear to the occasion. Our first piece of advice? Don't be afraid to pull out all of the stops and go totally glam for New Year's Eve wedding guest dresses (think: sequins, beading, metallics and high-shine fabrics). A NYE wedding is all about merriment—and festive fits to match. Whether the ceremony is a casual event or a black-tie affair that calls for more formal attire, this is the time to put on your most celebratory garb while raising a glass to a new year—and the newlyweds.

From beautiful sequined numbers to festive frocks, we've rounded up the best dresses for New Year's Eve weddings for all dress codes and wedding guest styles. Now that you're ready to shop, see our editor-approved picks plus expert advice that'll help you start the new year in style. Still, craving more? Check out our comprehensive edit of what to wear to a winter wedding.

In this article…

What to Wear to a New Year's Eve Wedding
The Best 2024 New Year's Eve Wedding Guest Dresses

What to Wear to a New Year's Eve Wedding

"It's pretty safe to assume that a New Year's Eve wedding calls for some measure of shimmer and shine, whether that's a fully sequined dress, a style with sequin embroidery, a dress in lurex or satin, or embellished, sparkly accessories," says Lulus Senior Vice President of Brand Marketing, Patrick Buchanan. According to Buchanan, the idea is to bring a little more drama and glamour to your wedding guest look than you typically would, even if it's not a formal or black-tie event. It is the most dazzling night of the year, after all!

"Unlike other wedding dress codes, sequins are almost the default when it comes to New Year's Eve wedding attire," Patrick says. "In all likelihood, a couple getting hitched on New Year's Eve is expecting guests to bring the shine, so unless the couple specifically requests guests not wear sequin dresses, you should feel free to put your sparkliest foot forward." That said, if you're really unsure, don't be afraid to ask.

Of course, there are plenty of options for those who want to skip the sparkles. This year, Patrick has been loving all things silver and metallic. "Whether it's a pair of chrome pumps, a mirrored mini bag, or a metallic vegan leather mini skirt, there are so many ways to wear this trend your way," he says. Other festive options that are totally on trend for 2024 include tweed separates, rosette accents, feather trims, and chunky statement jewelry (the bigger the better!).

The Best 2024 New Year's Eve Wedding Guest Dresses

Let the countdown begin. . .to find the perfect outfit, that is. The holiday season is a busy time, especially when you throw a wedding into the mix. Thankfully, we're here to help save you a tiresome shopping trip to the mall and have handpicked 15 festive looks for your upcoming celebration (you're welcome). Whether you're a maximalist, minimalist, or somewhere in between, we think you'll love these New Year's Eve wedding guest dresses.

Reformation Jamen Knit Dress Gold Sparkle

Reformation gold glitter NYE wedding guest dress

Looking for the perfect wedding guest ensemble? Rock this shimmering dress with a pair of black kitten heels and you'll be, quite literally, golden.

Size Range: XS-XL

$198 | Reformation

Ieena for Mac Duggal Wine Sequin Tie Back Dress

Ieena for Mac Duggal wine sequin NYE wedding guest dress

Is there any better way to show what a gem you are than with a jewel-toned dress? We didn't think so. You can rent this sequined mini dress alongside all your other holiday wardrobe must-haves.

Size Range: 0 - 16

From $94 | Rent The Runway

Torrid Maxi Beaded Embroidery Velvet Mock Neck Dress

Black velvet long sleeve beaded NYE wedding guest dress

This velvet midi dress has 'New Year's Eve' written all over it. No, literally. It features an embroidered firework design that's sure to set sparks flying on the dance floor.

Size Range: 10 - 30

$120 | Torrid

Retrofête Doss Dress Champagne Gold

This champagne-colored maxi dress is certainly worthy of a toast. Pair with nude heels and gold jewelry for even more shimmer.

Size Range: XXS - XXL

$595 | Retrofête

ELOQUII Multicolor Stripe Sequin Jumpsuit

ELOQUII sequin stripe NYE wedding guest jumpsuit

A special occasion calls for an equally special outfit. With vibrant colors, balloon sleeves, and all-over sequins, we think this festive jumpsuit certainly fits the bill.

Size Range: 14 - 28

$170 | ELOQUII

Showpo Malisha Maxi Dress

Showpo black sequin NYE wedding guest dress

Talk about starting the new year in style. You'll be ready for your photo-op once you step into this sequined maxi dress featuring a sexy cowl back and dramatic leg slit.

Size Range: 2 - 10

$110 | Showpo

Let Me Be Tiered Fringe Ombre Dress

Let Me Be pink and red fringe tiered NYE wedding guest dress

Here's a look that's guaranteed to get the party started. With dramatic tiers of fringe, it will move with you as you strut your stuff on the dance floor.

Size Range: XXSP - 3XL

From $98 | Nuuly

ELOQUII Strapless Sequin Gown

ELOQUII black strapless sequin NYE wedding guest dress

Here's a classic pick you're sure to have on repeat all wedding season long. Pair the strapless maxi dress with a faux fur shawl or knit wrap to keep you cozy during the countdown.

Size Range: 14 - 28

$140 | ELOQUII

Tadashi Shoji Crae Sequin Velvet Mini Dress

Tadashi Shoji blue sequin NYE mini wedding guest dress

There's no reason to feel blue when you're rocking a dress like this. The combination of sequins, velvet, and feathers makes it an extra festive pick for a New Year's Eve wedding.

Size Range: XXS - XL

$358 | Tadashi Shoji