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The step-by-step guide to a sustainable NYE shindig

From yummy food and glitzy decorations to killer outfits and remedies for killer hangovers, we share our favourite sustainable party tricks so you can leap into 2023 with a clean(ish) conscience.
Whether you’re planning a small get-together with friends or an all-out rager, there’s something special about a New Year’s Eve party. You want it to be memorable for all the right reasons, and not because of the volume of trash you’ll accumulate throughout the night, the money you’ll spend on an outfit you’ll only wear once, or the distinctly average beige party food abandoned in the kitchen.

Whether you’re planning a small get-together with friends or an all-out rager, there’s something special about a New Year’s Eve party. You want it to be memorable for all the right reasons, and not because of the volume of trash you’ll accumulate throughout the night, the money you’ll spend on an outfit you’ll only wear once, or the distinctly average beige party food abandoned in the kitchen.

Here’s everything you need to throw the perfect NYE bash and make sure you eat, drink and be merry with no compromises on style or sustainability.

Finding the fit

Everyone wants to look their best on NYE, but instead of dropping big bucks on an outfit you’ll only wear once (or worse, buying something cheap that’s just going to fall apart) why not rent your outfit? We love Loanhood, a peer-to-peer fashion rental platform that looks and feels just like a social app.

Or if you do want to treat yourself to a new outfit for keeps, check out sustainable brands like Tams, Neem London, Sutsu and Morena for slick pieces that you can wear throughout the new year and into the next (and the next, and the next).

The same goes for accessories. The Sustainable Watch Company, Loft & Daughter and Boutee all make gorgeous pieces that’ll pull your whole outfit together (or make a brilliant last minute gift for your OH!).

Putting your best face on

You’ve got a long night ahead of you, so get charged up with some quality R&R time before things get hectic. We love the uplifting, energising bath soaks and body oils from Wild Rising Skincare, and the decadent natural oil-infused body butters from Eco Whipped Skincare. Check out indie for sustainable treats that’ll make sure your hair’s looking its very best, too.

Thinking about seeing in the new year with a new make-up look? We absolutely adore Seeds of Colour for its ultra-versatile, super creamy natural pigments that give lips, cheeks and lids a no-fuss pop of natural colour.

Setting the scene

Forget cheap and tacky decorations – you don’t need to fill your house with disposable plastic to get people in the mood for partying! Head over to Counter Culture for a wide range of sustainable décor options and home fragrances that’ll have your gaff smelling great.

Fais Warm Spice Candle – Cinnamon + Clove + Black Pepper by Counter Culture

Of course, no party is really complete without a bit of sparkle, so check out Eco Glitter Fun for biodegradable glitter and sparkly party accessories in every colour of the rainbow.

Eating, drinking and being (very) merry

It’s not a party without the food and drink, but this year give the generic pre-packaged stuff the swerve and try something altogether more sustainable – and a lot tastier.

Nibbles from Soul Fruit and Spare Snacks keep the munchies at bay, but for some substantial monch check out the restaurant-quality ready-made vegan dishes from Brook Plant-Based Kitchen and Planty. And to wash it all down, how about an organic beer, wine or luxe soft drink from Planet Organic, or a smooth, warming glass of Montanya Rum, which uses natural, whole ingredients with no added sugar?

Oh – and without wanting to lower the tone – all of this eating and drinking will mean frequent trips to the loo, so make sure your bathroom is stocked up with toilet paper for your guests! We like Who Gives a Crap, Bumboo and Serious Tissues for a far more sustainable take on one of life’s necessities.

The morning after

Happy new year! So you’ve partied hard and now you’re feeling… less than fresh. Not to worry, we’ve got plenty of suggestions for ethical treats that’ll see you through the laziest day of the year.

First of all, grab yourself a cup of tea or coffee to help shift the cobwebs. Herbal offerings from Forager Health Tea will help you feel a bit more calm and grounded, while Apostle Coffee is perfect for a delicious caffeine kick.

Now there’s absolutely no judgment from us if you want to spend the day lounging around in your pants (and we’d recommend Bon + Berg or Pantee for the ultimate in comfy undies), but if you feel like easing into the new year with some gentle exercise, check out Pharamond Life for stylish, sustainable yoga gear, or Lockr Space for kit for a huge range of sports and activities.

Then, stimulate (or relax!) your senses with a soy candle, reed diffuser or essential oil from Helpmeorganics, and cosy up under a deliciously soft and snuggly blanket or quilt from Daughters of Gaea. Have a snooze – everyone knows the year doesn’t really start until the 2nd anyway!

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