Attention, class of 2009. New Year’s Eve is just around the corner, and we want you to look skinnier than that celery stick we traded for peppermint biscotti today. Unless you’ve got kids to tend to or you’re just flat out anti-social, you’ve got a big night ahead. It’s your duty to look absolutely smokin’.

Welcome, then, to The Style Insider’s ”New Year’s Eve 101″ series. In these 5 short sessions you will become informed and excited about your 2009 party debut. Our first class is about looking sleek. (Sleek looks are sophisticated and flattering, and jersey knits are in the spotlight this year.)

1. Maggy London draped matte jersey dress, $158 

2. David Meister one-shoulder sheath dress, on sale for $152.90

3. Yyigal Yaz dress, $380

 4. Tracy Reese Couture wool embellished dress in blue violet, on sale for $200

 5. Rachel Pally Angelica mini-dress, on sale for $151.20 

Finished with this class? Continue your studies by looking below this post to our second session: sassy styles.