New Year's Eve has three essential parts: the champagne, the kiss and the clothes. While you can't always control the quality of the first two, you can command the wardrobe. The trick is in accessories.

It's about "dressing up a little more" than you normally would, says Kathryn Floyd, accessories editor of Marie Claire. "But you don't want to go over the top."

Outfit simply (little black dress, or strapless top and tuxedo pants) and accessorize smartly (metal mesh scarf, chunky cocktail ring).

Floyd encourages some spice, something that grabs, but "I'm not going to say 'bling' — I hate that word," she confesses. Fair enough. How about dazzle?

Shoes: Find something metallic with a sexy heel. A knee-high boot works with a skirt or dress, too.

Jewelry: "I love stacking bangles, solid gold or silver — it goes with everything," she says. With necklaces, try a sweet little pendant or rhinestone.

Bags: "Clutches are the way to go," says Floyd. "They always look chic and are easy to match with everything." For a standing-room-only affair, look for something with a long chain strap. The better to keep track of.

"You can get away with more over New Year's," says Floyd. "So why not go for it?"

A little more dazzle comes with Cheray deCandia crystal earrings, $85 at cheraydecandia.com.