New Year's Eve outfits second-hand: sparkle, tailoring and what to check

What to look for

Sparkle

• Sequinned dresses, tops and skirts are the classic New Year's Eve choice.
• Metallic and lamé fabrics catch the light without being covered in sequins.
• Embellished collars and cuffs on a plain shirt or jumper add a little shine.

Rich fabrics

• Velvet in deep shades such as burgundy, emerald, navy or black, for dresses, blazers and trousers.
• Satin and silky fabrics for slip dresses, skirts and shirts.
• Lace for something softer.

Tailoring

• A dinner suit or a dark suit for a smart party.
• A velvet blazer over a shirt and trousers, or over a dress.
• A trouser suit or co-ord set as an alternative to a dress.
• A jumpsuit, which looks dressed up and is easy to move in.

Something you will wear again

One-night outfits are perfect to buy second-hand, but a piece you can wear again is even better value. A black velvet blazer, a satin skirt or a dark suit will see you through weddings, parties and nights out for years. Our guide to Christmas party outfits has more ideas that work for both nights.

What to check

Party wear is often in great condition, but delicate fabrics hide small problems. Look closely at the photos, and ask the seller for more if you need them.

• Sequins and beading. Look for bare patches or loose threads where sequins are coming away, especially under the arms and along seams.
• Zips and fastenings. A concealed zip on a fitted dress takes a lot of strain. Ask whether it runs smoothly.
• Velvet. Look for crushed or shiny patches on the seat, elbows and anywhere it has been sat on or pressed.
• Satin. Look for pulled threads, water marks and marks at the underarms.
• Linings. Check they are intact and not hanging below the hem.
• Smell. Ask whether it has been kept in a smoke-free home if that matters to you.

Get the fit right

Fitted party wear leaves little room for error, and sizes vary between brands. Check the measurements in cm rather than relying on the label:

• Dresses and jumpsuits: bust, waist, hip and length.
• Suits and blazers: chest, shoulder, sleeve and length, plus the trouser waist and inside leg.
• Stretch: sequinned and velvet fabrics may have little or no stretch, so check whether the fabric includes elastane.

Compare the figures with something you own that fits well. Our guide to measuring clothes for buying online shows how, and our Will it fit? checker compares a garment's measurements with yours.

Buy in good time

New Year's Eve comes straight after the Christmas post, so do not leave it late.

• Start looking in late November or early December, when sellers are listing party wear.
• Allow time for posting and delivery. On Rewear, sellers have five days to post after a sale, and then the parcel has to travel.
• Leave time for small fixes, such as a hem, a loose sequin or a button.

Stay warm on the way

A great outfit is no fun at a freezing bus stop at one in the morning.

• A long wool coat goes over almost any party outfit. Our guide on how a winter coat should fit helps you choose one with room over a blazer or full skirt.
• Shoes you can stand in for hours. Block heels, smart boots or polished flats often last the night better than stilettos.
• A wrap or scarf for the walk home.

Caring for party wear

• Check the care label before washing. Sequinned, beaded and velvet pieces are often dry clean only.
• Hang velvet rather than folding it, so the pile does not crush.
• Store sequins flat or folded with tissue, as their weight can stretch them on a hanger over time.

Sell it on in January

If you only wanted it for one night, list it again early in January while it is clean and in good condition. Photograph it in daylight, mention any small wear and give the measurements in cm. On Rewear there is no selling fee, so the price you agree is the price you are paid. Buyers pay postage and a buyer protection fee of 30p + 3%.

The short version

Look for sequins, velvet, satin, tailoring or a jumpsuit, ideally a piece you will wear again. Check sequins, zips, linings and pile, buy on measurements, and shop by early December. Plan a warm coat and comfortable shoes, and sell it on in January if it was for one night.