‘Unexpected Sequins’ Are Winter’s Flashiest Trend—Here’s How to Wear the Look

Fall and winter’s best runways also pushed sequins into new territory: Stella McCartney splashed them over straight jeans, Louis Vuitton dressed paillettes down in a boho way, and Dries Van Noten paired a shimmering skirt with a simple gray sweatshirt. No longer relegated to nighttime, unexpected sequins turn the quotidian into something special. (And they’ll keep going strong into spring 2025, according to Burberry, Loewe, and Erdem.)

With holiday parties on the horizon—and an entirely new year to dress for beyond them—we’re committing to unexpected sequins for the season ahead. From glittering office tops to beaded, brunch-ready ballet flats, these editor-approved pieces are the best way to add some shimmer to your wardrobe.

Best sequin tops

The beauty of these tops is that they introduce some glamour to whatever else you’re wearing without overpowering the entire look. (The high-low effect is very Prada, just saying.) Try wearing these pieces with worn-in jeans and slim loafers at the office or on a lunch date; switch to a satin skirt and slingbacks for fancy dinners or cocktail parties.

Best sequin bottoms

Fashion people are obsessed with sequin skirts—especially ones with sheer layers underneath opaque paillettes, so these picks are basically cheat codes to look like a Condé Nast employee. Each of these slinky skirts, plus the sparkly pants below, would pair nicely with a trim cashmere sweater (perhaps layered over a striped button-down shirt) or a tank top and a wool coat.

Best sequin dresses

Okay, okay, sequin dresses aren’t quite unexpected—if you’re wearing them to a New Year’s Eve party, that is. But we challenge you to take these pieces somewhere you’ve never worn sequins, whether that’s to a wedding, an office party, or brunch. Leave your hair messy and wear your quietest flats and daintiest jewelry with these midis; try knee-high boots and an easy updo with these minis. See? We’re right back in unexpected territory, just how we like it.

Best sequin accessories

Not ready to commit to sequin clothes? We get it, and that’s where these glittering accessories come in. We love sequins on a bag, be it Tory Burch’s textural gold or a drawstring purse in the same purple shade as Carrie Bradshaw’s Fendi Baguette. But you can also try the material in a subtler way, such as with a headband or heels with sequin trim. Beaded necklaces, meanwhile, are a close cousin to sequins—and a foolproof way to dress up white T-shirts and sneakers.

Related: