The Final Countdown: New Year's Eve: the big night. The time to really celebrate and welcome in the new year. Hopefully by now you'll all have made some plans. Even I, the last minute kind, have somewhere special to attend. However, unlike previous years where I've dressed up in character (Shakira in her crazy hair days- so not a good look- I was 15, ok?) or just gone to a casual house party, this time round I'm spending it someplace fancy, and that requires me to dress fancy... Cue my dread: my usual attire of leathers, a blouse and fur are no good! I have to actually make an effort. Oh mon dieu! I've come to the conclusion that a dress it is. It's New Year's Ever after all: the one night to get ridiculously dressed up, go over the top, get your hair professionally blow dried, book yourself in for a spray tan, manicure... THE WORKS! That's the spirit! Oh. I still have to find something to wear. Right! Well, being an avid despiser of sales, the first place to start for me is certainly not out and about. Instead, I'm sitting comfortably in my PJs with the Macbook on my lap and I am about to do what my degree taught me to do well: research, research and research. Now, I could probably go through the better of the high street chains to see what they have in store but this is NYE and I want something special! I want something timeless, stylish and that really makes a statement. A good way to start 2013! Let me take you first to BCBG Maxazria then. I've bought a number of dresses from here before; they do great occasion wear and there's always plenty of choice. Prices are usually more on the expensive side but by no means ridiculously overpriced. You know you're getting a quality dress that inevitably will get you noticed. The store on the King's Road probably has the best selection, but Harvey Nichols usually have a great concession with some of the best picks too. I spot the Loretta. A black lace embellished evening dress. Chic, classic and totally lust-worthy. This dress is a statement and a half. I'm in love. Team with a bold clutch and red lips, and oh my, HEAVEN! Ok, so I need to stop getting ahead of myself. A girl needs options! My next stop is Aqua. Statement silhouettes and bold colours create a strong look every time. I instantly zoom in on the Voltaire Maxi Dress and it's a beauty, indeed. I can choose between a sleek black or a OTT orange version- both equally tempting, and I certainly want to try them both on. The Bergman Dress also catches my eye and comes in a number of shades too. I could quite easily go on, but it's settled. I know where I'm going, and I know what I'm looking for. Aqua don't disappoint me now, I'm coming to your Carnaby Street store pronto! So there it is, I'm all set to conquer post-Christmas shopping, and out of everything on offer I'm sure I can find something suitable. If you're struggling with what to wear I suggest you take a peek at the websites above and gain some inspiration. Of course, be prepared and have an option B, C and D at the ready. At this time of year, you never know what stock is like. My back-up plan is a vintage Alexander McQueen navy silk dress I bought for a 6th form ball 5 years ago. Not a bad option, I know, but a girl can't help wanting something new to wear to celebrate a very exciting year ahead! Good luck with the outfit hunt, and whatever you're doing for New Year, I hope that you bring it in with style, and of course, the obligatory flute of bubbles. Happy New Year and keep on jet-setting! Claire Menary |