We may be on the brink of 2012 but party like it’s the 1920’s (or 30’s-70’s) cause nothing spells class on NYE like a classic vintage piece. You definitely wont run the ‘same outfit’ risk if you’re wearing a perfect little flapper dress or a sparkly seventies number. And for something a little too dated, just to change the length of the hem. By shortening a full-length dress to knee-length or above, you’ve instantly got modern cocktail attire with a retro twist.

Also, buying vintage doesn’t have to break the bank; a lot of secondhand stores have vintage merchandise sections now. Sometimes it takes some searching, but the gems are there to be found. And don’t forget to look in unexpected places. For last year’s NYE, I found a darling vintage navy blue nightgown trimmed with gold lace, hanging in the pajama section. I belted it, threw on layers of gold chain necklaces, a pair of ruffled heels and couldn’t have been happier with my outfit. I might even look for another vintage nightgown to rework this year.

Glitter is always on the menu for NYE and the majority of dresses tend to be black with sparkle, silver or gold. Now, I love any excuse to wear glitter but if you want to stand out this year just pick a different color palette. Go for saturated colors like mustard yellow or royal purple, and you just might outshine that gal in head to toe sparkle.  Of course, I’m not saying to forego the festive glitter all together. That is where your accessories come in. NYE is just the time to adorn in yourself in lovely baubles, belts and bags. Don’t already have a pair of sparkly shoes or a sparkly purse? Well you don’t have to buy new ones. Grab that old pair of heels or that hardly used clutch buried at the back of your closet and make ‘em NYE fresh. It’s as easy as a bottle of glitter, an over coat of Mod-Podge and some time to let it dry.

Actually, putting together a really sustainable NYE ensemble is all about the accessories. After buying a bunch of holiday presents and taking time off of work it’s hard enough to justify shelling out for a brand new outfit, especially if it’s just for one night of wear. Instead, give an old look new life with exciting accessories. Finding that huge vintage pendant necklace, dangly gold earrings, fun evening gloves or a bold belt are perfect for standing out on NYE. And who knows? Maybe that accessory will become your piece of choice for 2012.

It’s official; you’re going to look fantastic. Now all you have to worry about is finding someone to kiss at midnight and figuring out what the heck is old lang syne?