This plum spaghetti-strap satin gown featuring tucks all the way to the hemline will still turn heads for New Year's Eve this year. - Rudolph Brown/Chief Photographer

New Year's Eve is all about entering life's uncharted waters with glamorous optimism. Thus, we entertain the ritual of dressing up in fabulous garb.

So if you're attending an all-nighter party or formal ball, there's definitely one thing you'll need: a breathtaking dress!

Hence, in true out-with-the-old, in-with-the-new styles, Saturday Life visited one of St Andrew's chicest boutiques, Ladonna's Fashion, for our top New Year's Eve fashion picks to welcome 2009 in vogue.

Comfort and style

This year, choose an ensemble that is not only flattering but also comfortable. Nothing can be more agonising than having to be cheerful and sociable in a straitjacket.

So this season, we are opting for body-skimming silhouettes rather than body-hugging ones, along with ruffles, pleats and draping in all the right areas.

This must be done, of course, while wearing something that will allow your body to move. The last thing you want is to be pulling on your clothes all night to make sure that they fit properly or worrying about your dress falling off.

Choosing the perfect dress

Set New Year's Eve alight with this firecracker of an outfit. - Photo by Randy Bowman

Dresses made of fabric like satin, chiffon and lace are being glammed up with sequins, rosettes, beads, high-waist belts and clutch purses. Metallic accessories, patent leather shoes and bold-coloured accessories are among this season's trends, so be on the lookout for something special.

While you can't go wrong with the little black dress, make the most of your attributes by selecting something to enhance your figure, distracting eyes from your weak spots and drawing attention to your assets. Remember, beauty does not come in one size or shape.

Choosing the perfect dress requires that you dress your age. It will be fashion suicide to dress like a teenager when, in fact, you are well past those years. It's okay to wear something out of the ordinary at times, but not always. Growing old is a blessing. So don't be afraid to wear something that fits your age. It's not only fashionable, it will also make you look respectable.

Think about colour and choose one you know accentuates your appeal. Select hues that fit your skin. If sexy red seems to go along great with your copper tress, keep it in mind.

Choose classic styles. If you want to play it safe, go with designs that transcend fashion fads. Don't fritter away your time and money chasing every passing thrill and frill.

For full-bodied folk, tight-fitting clothes won't do you justice, but don't be fearful of experimentation. Instead, invest on a dress with classic style. A simple A-line black dress never goes out of style. Black or white pants are also classic must-haves. You can never go wrong!

Cultivate your own sense of style. Don't try to simply blend in with the 'crowd', step out with confidence and your inner beauty will shine through.

Ladonna's Fashion is located at 1B Baron's Plaza, 59 1/2 Constant Spring Road. Tel: 908-3160, 373-8875.

Glam accessories

Don't leave home without pulling the whole look together with:

Pumps

Preferably ones that feature luxurious fabric or glamorous details.

Bag

Ruffles and beading are a must for a holiday clutch. Metallics are also in high fashion.

Make-up

Well, the only good time to plaster on a lot of make-up is if you work in a circus. Go light, ladies.

N.B.

If you put on your dress before doing your make-up, drape a towel or put on a button-up shirt over your dress to prevent make-up smudges and accidents with food, drink, make-up, hairspray, little brothers, etc.

Jewellery

Add some bling, Miss Thing. Accessorise your attire. Earrings, necklace, watch and rings are just a few of the things you can wear. Try not to overdo it, though. Less is more, more or less.

The last thing you need is a great and perfect accessory - a smile. Your smile will make your outfit perfect.