Here are three style philosophies to embrace as you close the chapter on 2020.
Dec 30, 2020
The final day of one of the most trying years in recent history is fast approaching and, like the birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays before it, for most, New Year’s Eve is sure to be a more pared back event than usual. This year, we’re reuniting with loved ones over Zoom, and counting down till midnight with our friends via Skype. Despite the socially distanced form 2020 NYE celebrations are bound to take, there’s still plenty of cause to put together an ensemble anyway. Since gathering en masse is not currently in the cards, there may be less pressure to turn heads with your outfit, but there is still good reason for festive flair. So, whether you’ve been exhausted by the past 12 months and want to keep your look easy and breezy, or you’re pulling out all the stops to keep that party spirit alive, dive into which fashion philosophies to embrace and key pieces to which to turn as we bid 2020 adieu.
NICE AND EASY
After a year like 2020, a casual New Year’s Eve outfit has never been more acceptable—perhaps even called for. But even if it’s just a T-shirt that’s the base of your ensemble, there are still styles to choose from and ways to accessorize that’ll inject your look with some panache. Pair an embellished tee like IAMISIGO's Patched Front version version with a high-waisted miniskirt, an effortless and youthful combo. Keep things low key by adding a pair of crisp-white sneakers or flat sandals (Shekudo’s Tinubu slides are a striking exercise in minimalism), or try a chunky boot for an ultra-modern look. Another way to achieve a relaxed aesthetic is to turn to a simple summer dress. Whether it’s a mid-length sleeveless number, or a loose-fitting floral piece, it’s the perfect choice for a chill evening spent popping bubbly with pals over Zoom. Studio 189’s Sing Dress is a two-tone, artisanal piece with a free-flowing silhouette that will keep things comfortable and cool, while Doreen Mashika’s Asali style is characterized by a billowing shape cut from light fabrics. Finish things off by adding embellishment in the form of beaded baubles: Sidai Designs’ Maasai-crafted Pembetatu earrings are wearable art that will glam up your casual look.
comme ci comme ça
Strike a balance between “all dressed up” and “completely casual” and turn to the jumpsuit, a versatile closet staple. Depending on how you style it, the garment can go from relaxed and informal, to the epitome of nighttime elegance in a flash. Pair an understated iteration in a soft shade of your choosing (with a relaxed fit and gathered waist, Diarrablu’s Umy styles are a refined example), or lean into the clean, utility vibes of a coverall (Kiko Romeo’s versions are a cool take on modern minimalism), then let your choices of accessories temper the glamor. Dainty pieces like Pichulik’s Garland Hoops and Patrick Mavros’ Stud earrings are opulent accessories that won’t overwhelm, while Adele Dejak’s sculptural Dhamani Adele earring delivers a dose of drama. A comfortable mule like one from Shekudo is the right shoe choice here: on-trend and distinctive, they’re a happy medium between stylish and effortless. For an alternative to the jumpsuit, look to the street pajama. Taibo Bacar’s printed silk satin pajamas boast ultra-feminine silhouettes, while faux feathers, and diamante detailing further the garments’ sophistication. Pair the ensemble with a barely there stiletto, or pad around your place barefoot as you please.
to the nines
We may not be seeing in the new year out on the town, but that doesn’t mean you can’t pull out all the stops with your outfit and celebrate as though you were. In fact, if the remote nature of celebrations this year has left you downcast, dressing up could prove the perfect antidote to the gloom. Look to voluminous forms, vibrant prints, and dramatic shapes to define your end-of-the-year ensemble. Tongoro’s exclusive capsule collection for Industrie Africa is one by which to be inspired. The Folo Set and Jama Jumpsuit are playfully feminine, standout options. With such a statement garment, all one needs are modest accessories (Ami Doshi Shah’s Verdigris and Vessel Drop are delicate ones that won’t draw attention from your dramatic ensemble) and a striking heel: Loza Maléombho ’s Thila heel is just the sort of shoe that pairs beautifully with dramatic silhouettes. Christie Brown’s Fit and Flare Corset Dress is another attention-arresting, sophisticated yet gamine style—a show stopper with a cinched waist, full skirt, and hand-embroidered detailing, it’s a style that looks great teamed with just a silver statement earring, and a pointed court heel.
There you have it: a cheat sheet to turn to as you prepare for that countdown to midnight. Our soirées may be small, and the number of loved ones we’re free to embrace even smaller, but there’s still cause for celebration—and after a socially distanced year that saw loungewear reign supreme, we think that a little New Year’s Eve dressing up is very welcome.
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