NYE Style: Keep it Cool and Simple

Your plans have been made, the champagne is on ice and you're getting in a New York state of mind.  Now all you have to do is put together that all-important New Year's Eve ensemble. Easier said than done, right? Between the fireworks, the flash-bulbs and that oversized glitter-encrusted ball, it's easy to get caught up in the pressure to pull out all the stops-and we're not just talking about the bubbly. But after a bullish year, how to ring in the New Year in proper fashion? 

Speaking chic,  whether you're planning an intimate dinner in or an all out party, there's no need to break a sweat…or the bank. In fact, according to many local boutique owners, over-the-top party dressing is so last year. 

"After the year we've had I think people have re-prioritized a bit and are opting to celebrate a little closer to home," says Sherrie Paluzzi of Turnbury Lady Outlet in Bellmore. "So formal dressing just doesn't really seem to fit the mood." 

But, Palluzzi notes, even if you're just headed to dinner and a movie, you definitely don't want to be caught out in a velour track suit and Ugg boots when the clock strikes midnight.

With that in mind, Holly Piazza of La Pink suggests pulling together a look that balances the casual with the cool. "If you always wear jeans, then wear jeans with a great pair of heels and a chic printed top or tunic."

By simply adding rich flourishes -ruffles, cool metallics, sequins or studs-you can take everyday pieces somewhere entirely fresh. 

Wendy Lombardo of Reign, a brand new trend savvy boutique on Merrick Avenue agrees.

"Keep it simple," she says.

Lombardo suggests picking one great piece and mixing it with everyday basics to create a look that's equal parts edgy and effortless. Think basics with a subtle twist.

"While you definitely don't want to show up underdressed, you don't want to look like you're trying too hard either," Lombardo said.

She says an the embellished necklace-tee epitomizes this aesthetic. "Bib necklaces have been a big trend. So I love the idea of a silk blouse, or tee that comes with its very own." Super cute under a cardigan or blazer, she says, you can leave the rest of your outfit simple to really let the necklace take center stage.  

Sequins, according to these local 'stylistas' are another easy way add a break up basics and add a little soft sparkle. Perfect for easy evening glamour, this season they've been everywhere from boyfriend blazers to leggings and even some "flare" raising rocker chic minis. But again, they say to keep the overall look simple to avoid venturing into mirror ball territory.

"A little bit of sparkle goes along way," says Paluzzi.

Whether on the back pockets of a pair of figure-flattering jeans or wrapped around your neck in a festive scarf, Paluzzi says a few strategically placed sparkles are instant outfit transformers. 

If you think this mode of dressed down dressing-up sounds too good to be truly stylish, think again says Lisa Galeotafiore, owner of Clothesline, a boutique known for it's supremely stylish mix. With the recession weighing heavily, she says it makes sartorial sense that the trends would accommodate a more practical approach to dressing; versatile basics over one-hit stunners. 

Applied to party dressing she says the look translates as a sort of "laid back luxe." "No one wants to buy something that's just going to end up collecting dust in the back of their closet. Women have really embraced the idea of dressing for themselves." 

With that in mind,  Galeotafiore says it's officially time to throw out the idea of "evening wear." In fact, the same basic blouse you wear under a blazer during the day can often be paired with a great belt and worn with a pair of skinnies for night.

"It's the unexpected elements that really pack a punch at night. A little shock value is always super sexy," Galeotafiore says, but adds that the best look for any occasion is the one you're most comfortable in. 

So resolve to say farewell to 2009 in splendid fashion…looking like a total ten!

New Year's Eve-ning Do's 

• Do play with traditional looks. A classic tuxedo jacket, elegant dinner gloves or a tiny top hat can totally transform a basic LBD from so 2009 to a truly trendsetting ten.  

• Do make it all about your legs. Pick a hemline that shows off your gorgeous gams and accessorize with a pair of textured tights. From diamond weave fishnets to patterned mesh and even studs, no matter your size, shape or age, here anything hose! 

• Do skirt the issue. Dressing up doesn't always have mean putting on a dress. Instead opt for one of the seasons party perfect skirts. Pair with a simple top, and a great pair of heels and you'll 

• Do belt it out: This season take a note from the First Lady and embrace the belt. Thick, thin, elastic or leather, this versatile accessory will help accentuate your waist and add an instant-and very versatile-polish. 

• Definitely do try it on:  Move around in it and make sure it can handle whatever your New Year's is going to throw at it.