NYE Dresses 2025: Dazzling Selections for a Night to Remember

If you want high-impact sparkle without a high price, the Princess Polly Charlette minidress scored 7/10 in our testing for its sequin-drenched velvet and adjustable tie straps. The lined sheath fit reads party-ready, especially for NYE. That said, the fabric requires gentle care (hand wash, line dry), and sequins can snag or shed with frequent wear—similar to ELOQUII’s sequin styles. For a less delicate, longer option, consider the velvet Somerset maxi, which trades shimmer for timeless polish.

If you love a statement moment, the self-portrait Bow Mini Dress delivers with an oversized front bow and structured bouclé that keeps its A-line shape in photos. During our review, it scored 4.5/10 because the mini length runs very short, the limited stretch is unforgiving if you’re between sizes, and care is dry-clean only. At $163, it’s polished for photos, but our experience shows the Lulus long sleeve sequin mini or MARINA beaded midi offer better value, while higher-rated picks like Vince Camuto’s metallic pleated maxi bring impact and versatility.

With beaded long sleeves and a sleek off-the-shoulder neckline, the MARINA midi brings serious sparkle at a smart $99.97, earning an 8/10 in our review. We found the partially lined design keeps the bodice modest while the mesh sleeves shimmer, and the stretch body hugs curves. Do note the hand-wash care and fitted ruching can feel snug if you prefer looser silhouettes. If you want more ease, try the top-rated Somerset’s smocked A-line or ELOQUII’s stretch sequin option for similar shine with a bit more give.

Craving sparkle on a budget? Lulus’ long sleeve sequin mini scored 7.5/10 and was a crowd-pleaser in our testing for high-impact photos without the scratch factor. The mixed-media design—with a velvet top and stretch-lined, sequin-covered body—felt surprisingly comfortable for a sheath mini, and the long sleeves add balance. It does run slightly small, so we recommend sizing up for a roomier fit. While it lacks the swoosh of a gown, it’s shorter and more playful than our top-rated metallic maxi, and the $79 price makes it a festive NYE win.

For a show-stopping entrance, the Lulus Sequin Fringe Maxi is our top-rated pick at 10/10. In our testing, the sequin fringe and champagne tone caught light beautifully, and the fabric's reported stretch made hours of dancing surprisingly comfortable. At $99, it outshines far pricier options and even beats the Reformation Bryson on party impact. Just note the floor-sweeping hem likely needs heels (or a hem), fit can vary, and the long-sleeve version reads slightly sheer.

If velvet is your NYE vibe, ASTR's Dauphine Mini scored 7.5/10 for its plush feel and jewel-embellished bow that photographs beautifully. During our review, the fit-and-flare shape and adjustable straps made dialing in the bust easy, and the mini length shows off legs with tights or heels. Trade-offs: only the bust is lined, so the torso and skirt can feel less cushy, and it is dry-clean only. Not as value-packed as our 10/10 Lulus, but a glam velvet pick in classic black.

Our top-rated choice for NYE, The Somerset Velvet Maxi earned a 10/10 in our review for its plush, high-sheen velvet, smocked waist, and universally flattering A-line tiers—plus, pockets. The Dark Blue reads luxe in evening light, and the modal lining keeps it comfortable for long nights. Downsides: most colorways are dry clean only, and the ~55-inch length may require hemming for petites. If you crave sequins instead of velvet, the Lulus or Princess Polly options bring more sparkle at lower prices.

Reformation’s Bryson Dress scored 8.5/10 for its romantic sweetheart neckline, elastic flutter sleeves, and breezy crepe that drapes beautifully at a midi length. During our review, the smocked back offered comfortable give, making it easier to wear through dinner and dancing. Note the trade-offs: it’s unlined (lighter colors can skew sheer), dry-clean-only, and some shoppers advise sizing down. It’s an elegant pick just shy of our top velvet choice, especially in core Black for fuss-free coverage.

While affordable at $59.99, this Calvin Klein scuba-crepe sheath earned our lowest mark at 4.5/10 for NYE because the simple knee-length silhouette lacks festive punch and fit proved inconsistent in our testing. The stretchy, wrinkle-resistant fabric is comfortable and polished, making it a reliable office-to-dinner piece. However, some customers report seam or stitching failures and taller buyers may find it shorter than expected. If you want celebration-ready impact, a beaded or velvet pick will outshine this one.

Want a polished mini with sleeves? Club L London's Athena earned 6/10 from us: the double-layered stretch crepe feels refined, and the A-line cut with a pleated hem moves nicely on the dance floor. During our review, we liked the coverage and easy stretch, but at $205 the value is tempered by reported quality inconsistencies and pricier, restrictive returns for US shoppers. If you want a safer bet, our 10/10 Lulus or the 8.5/10 Norma Kamali offer stronger value, though this is a chic pick when you need sleeves.

With a 9.5/10, Vince Camuto’s metallic pleated maxi is our top-rated NYE choice for sheer impact and movement. In our testing, the gunmetal polyester blend with metallic fibers caught every bit of light, while the flowing maxi length provided elegant coverage and looked incredible in photos. The sleeveless, unembellished silhouette keeps it sophisticated, justifying the premium $218 price for a standout occasion dress. Do note the pleated metallic fabric can crease—our experience shows careful packing and a quick steam are worth planning for.

For a sleek, low-key NYE look, Zara's Satin Slip Dress offers an elegant drape at a smart $99.90. In our testing, the 100% viscose satin effect and thin crossed-back straps felt refined, and the maxi length reads formal without fuss. Plan on steaming, as viscose wrinkles easily; sheerness can be an issue in lighter shades, though black mitigates it. Scoring 6.5/10 - on par with H&M's glittery mini but subtler - add statement jewelry or a sparkly clutch if you crave more shine than this unembellished slip provides.

For a under-$100 option that still feels luxe, J.Crew’s Natasha Slip scored 7.5/10 in our testing. The 60% cupro/40% viscose fabric has a silky hand but better durability, and the lined bodice adds modesty—plus it’s machine-washable, a win after a long night out. Fit runs slightly small with minimal stretch, so our experience shows many will want to size up, especially curvier shapes. More low-key than our top-rated metallic maxi, this black midi is primed for sparkle via accessories.

Prefer understated polish? & Other Stories' Satin Slip Midi scored 7/10 in our review for its lustrous finish in black and delicate lace-trim V-neck that reads dressy without sequins. We found the non-stretch 100% viscose skims rather than molds, great if you want flow, less so if you need forgiveness or bust support from the thin straps. At $139, it is a sleek base under a blazer for NYE, though gentle care is key to keep the sheen. Not as impactful as our 10/10 Lulus, but reliably chic.

Looking for a plus-size sequin mini that delivers NYE sparkle without breaking the bank? In our testing, ELOQUII’s fully lined stretch-knit sheath (mock neck and subtle shoulder pads) looked polished and comfortable for a close fit. At $65.97 and a 7/10 score, it’s strong value, though sequins can pill or shed and the body-skimming cut may feel restrictive if you like roomier silhouettes. Plan on delicate care—turn it inside out and lay flat to dry—and consider sizing for comfort.

Compared to our higher-scoring, flowy picks, Good American’s Sculpting Modern Tank Maxi earned a 7/10 in testing as the sleek, sculpted option. The mid-weight super-stretch scuba jersey smoothed and shaped beautifully, and the square neckline with wide straps looked modern in photos; the pullover design keeps the lines clean. That said, it’s very body-hugging and the fabric can show snags if it meets rough surfaces, so handle with care. The back slit is modest, which may slightly limit stride during very active celebrations.

Looking for sleek drama without sequins? Norma Kamali's LS Shirred Fishtail Gown earned 8.5/10 in our testing for its ultra-comfortable 4-way stretch mesh, flattering V-neck, and shirring that carves a long, vertical line. The included under-piece solves modesty with the semi-sheer mesh, and at $120 it is exceptional value compared with pricier evening gowns. Note that the length runs long and may need a hem, and thumbhole sleeves are a love-or-leave detail. Subtler than our 10/10 Lulus, but wonderfully versatile.

While not our highest scorer, the Sandra chiffon gown earns a solid 7.5/10 for formal NYE galas and black-tie dinners. During our review, the V-neck with a self-tie waist created a customizable, flattering fit, and the chiffon outer with full lining moved beautifully yet stayed opaque. The floor-length sheath silhouette is elegant but often requires professional hemming for petites, and sizing can run inconsistent across retailers. We suggest ordering two sizes and, if possible, choosing machine-washable listings to simplify post-party care.

If full-length glamour is your vibe, the Lulus Pleated Cutout Plisse Maxi scored 8/10 for dazzling metallic pleats and a formal, floor-sweeping silhouette. In our testing, the built-in padded cups offered light shaping, so going braless felt feasible for many. Keep in mind the fabric has no stretch and needs delicate handling to avoid snags, and the cutout/padded-cup combo may require sizing tweaks for different busts. At $99, it’s a striking alternative to pricier options like Reformation.

H&M’s off-the-shoulder glittery mini is a fun, wallet-friendly way to shine, earning 6.5/10 in our testing. The metallic threads catch party lights beautifully and the fitted bodycon silhouette nails a sleek, going-out vibe. Just budget for gentle care—machine wash cold and line dry—to help preserve the sparkle, and note the short length and slim fit can feel tight. If you prefer more coverage, Reformation’s midi or the Somerset maxi offer longer hemlines with elevated fabrics.

On a budget but still want sparkle? MANGO's TEEN Sequin Mini in gold earned 6.5/10 for high-impact shine and a bold open back at just $69.99. In our testing, the mini sheath silhouette felt flirty and club-ready, though the short length is not ideal for formal venues or conservative dress codes. Our experience shows sequins can shed or snag, so avoid delicate layers and store it carefully. If you would prefer more length or longevity, the 8.5/10 Norma Kamali gown is a smarter bet.

A New Day’s leopard column slip is a versatile satin midi that scored 6.5/10 in our review for its flattering length, smocked back, and adjustable straps. In our experience, the lightweight fabric looks luxe but runs thin, and some shoppers noted tightness at the top plus occasional shipping hiccups. It’s a great base under a leather jacket or blazer if you want print without sequins. Compared with the Abercrombie slip, this isn’t final sale and feels a touch more forgiving.

The Abercrombie Julia Slip is a budget-friendly way to get a satin look, but it scored 4.5/10 in our review due to thin, slightly clingy fabric and a final-sale listing with no returns. Adjustable straps help tweak the fit, and the leopard print adds personality for layered looks. In practice, it’s best under a blazer or cardigan rather than as the star of NYE. If you can stretch your budget, the Lulus or MARINA dresses feel more special for the night.

Looking for a romantic under-$60 option, the ASOS Sweetheart Ribbon Midi offers a soft drape in breathable 100% viscose. During our review, the sweetheart neckline and tie detail flattered the bust, while the fit-and-flare midi length stayed versatile for dinner-to-party plans. However, the plain-woven fabric has little stretch and ASOS sizing can run small - our experience shows you may want to size up. It scored 4.5/10, the lowest here, and lacks embellishment, so add glittery tights and a sequin bag - or choose Princess Polly's 7/10 or H&M's 6.5/10 - for true NYE sparkle.