THE long, glamorous gowns hanging in shop windows or worn by mannequins were one of the season’s highlights for me as a little girl. I couldn’t wait for the time when I would be allowed to don a chic ankle-length number with a low-cut back and high slit, or something with a tight bodice and bare shoulders, and go to an “Old Years Night/New Year’s Eve” party. 

The newspapers on the second day of the New Year were filled with amusing photos of women lifting their dresses as they ‘wined’ down to the ground, which was slightly incongruous with the sophisticated glamour of the gowns. How things have changed! Who says you have to wear a gown? Who says you even have to wear a dress of any sort? Who says you even have to be formal?
This is not intended to knock the frank sophistication of gowns before the last decade, but today’s trends offer a lot more flexibility and variety. Basically, there is no longer an “Old Year’s Night/New Year’s Eve” look. Just work your style and look good. So, today, we will look at some of the trends that are on the current market, and examine what looks good:

1. Minis: No longer do you need to wear a long outfit on the most glamorous night of the year. Lightweight and skimpy is in. If you are conservative, opt for a heavier fabric and styles that cover your back, tummy and chest. Wear your “tights” if you feel more comfortable. But by all means, let’s see those legs!

2. Peplum Dresses: Walking around Georgetown the other day with a relative, I noticed that these dresses were everywhere. There were turtle-necked ones, long-sleeved ones, low-backed ones, armless ones, sheer-front ones in every conceivable colour, fabric and pattern.

But they all have one thing in common: A fitted, body-conscious shape with a flare of fabric just above the hips. These dresses are versatile, and can be worn to a number of occasions. They also look great with dramatic jewellery. Try a statement necklace or a huge earring for a striking effect (Just don’t wear both at the same time). You have the option of wearing a small purse hung on a chain from your shoulders, or having a sophisticated clutch. Platform pumps look great with this style, but stiletto-heeled strappy slippers may substitute.

3. Colour: It is no longer necessary to wear black, white, metallic or solid colours. Colour is in! And the brighter the better! Try a rose pink, a floral, even a bright yellow dress. Colour blocking — that trend where you creatively mix contrasting colours — is even better. Keep materials, hair and accessories sophisticated, though.

4. Lace: Is there any fabric more feminine and alluring than lace? Lace is no longer just for the bedroom or as a trimming on our clothes. In many of the dresses seen now, lace is the highlight.

5. Shiny: Sequins, rhinestones, glitter and metallic bring on the gaudy goodness. Bright is alright. Wear a sequined dress or a top, or even one of those sequined hot pants on the market. Don’t be afraid, you’ll stand out even in the dark.

6. Jumpsuit: Not your denim jumpsuit, of course. Try an elegant jumpsuit in a sophicated material like silk, satin or lace, in a neutral colour with glamorous accessories. This is the place for a statement necklace, bejewelled clutch and stiletto heels.

So, with that said, get creative and express yourself this holiday. Just don’t dress merely for the attention, or because everyone is wearing something. Assess your figure; make sure your choice is comfortable and flattering; and stay true to yourself.

(By Michelle Gonsalves)