By now you’ve probably seen the signs: Le Beaujolais Nouveau est arrivé! In practical terms, this translates into “Free booze at midnight!” Between the anticipation of this year’s batch and the excitement about tonight’s uncorking parties, it’s understandable if you haven’t considered what you’re going to wear. But to prevent tonight’s raucous revelry from becoming tomorrow’s dry cleaning disaster, check out our tips for dressing to swill.

Oui: Dark colors and washable fabrics
Non: Anything that’s silk, cashmere or dry clean only.
Remember what happened when red wine was spilled all over Cindy Mancini’s white suede fringed outfit in Can’t Buy Me Love? Sure, she ended up dating Patrick Dempsey’s character as a result, but you get the idea.

Oui: Low, comfortable shoes
Non: Heels, open-toed styles and any shoes that you only bear to wear to the copy machine and back.
Dress for long lines and the possility of broken glass. And don’t forget to ask yourself, “Would I feel comfortable dancing on a bar in these shoes?”

Oui: Dressing in layers
Non: Heavy coats, thick wool sweaters
No matter what the temperature is like outside ce soir, you can count on the Beaujolais Nouveau parties to be crowded and steamy. So take advantage of this season’s shrugs and and blazers so that you can strip layers as needed. Within reason, of course (no matter how much wine you’ve had).

It’s helpful to bring a large bag to stow your jacket and other discarded layers. In years past, a stray bottle of wine also has been known to end up in revelers’ bags. Oops. Oh, and please leave the berets at home. In this town they’re still more Lewinsky-esque than Francophile.

Have any tips for Beaujolais Nouveau night?