Host a New Girl Watch Party

Grab your tortoise shell lenses and your hair chutney, the New Girl is back! There’s no judgment here if you’re just a tiny bit giddy over the show’s return on Tuesday, Sept. 17th (9 p.m. ET) — I’d live inside Jess’s frosting-coated, rainbow-print world if I could — which is why I mapped out a guide to becoming Jessica Day err, hosting a so-geeky-it’s-fun watch party.

First, let’s dissect Zooey Deschanel’s style as Jess. Yes, there will be a test on this later. And yes, everybody at your party should come dressed as her. Or, okay, fine, one of the guys.

 Dress like Jess from FOX's New Girl (AKA steal Zooey Deschanel's style)

Second, here’s your shopping inspo (and yes, I am shortening “inspiration” in all instances to “inspo” like a Pinterest addict. If the shoe fits, well…):

Here's how to dress like Zooey Deschanel/Jess from the New Girl

Kirna Zabate full skirt in teal, Target; $39.99

Ivy League Readers, Fred Flare; $12

LC Lauren Conrad Pineapple & Strawberry stud earrings, Kohl’s; $10.50 (both)

Essential Striped Cowl Neck Top, Forever 21; $15.80

Cap-Toe Ballet Flats, Old Navy; $20

 

Third, set your menu:

New Girl Menu

Drinks: If over 21, rose and PBRs, since it’s hipster-chic, and as Jess once said, “pink wine makes me slutty.” It’s a subtle homage. If you’re under 21, add a splash of cranberry juice to Sprite or 7-Up for your own take on Jess’s devious drink.

Noshes:

Mini Pumpkin Pie Cupcakes — Because Jess and cupcakes go together like cat hoarding and spinsters. (Top with Georgetown Cupcake’s Vanilla Cream Cheese frosting)

Chili Cheese Dip — Nick & Winston would approve of this no-frills classic.

Garlic, Herb & Parmesan Popcorn — A gourmet touch elevates the party, so any Schmidts in attendance won’t dry heave over the food options.

Mango Chutney, Proscuitto & Paneer “Pizza” — Just because of the way Schmidt says “chutney.” Or you can just make the chutney and use it as a dip for chicken tenders or fries.

White Chocolate Peanut Butter Dip — Serve with pretzel sticks and sliced apples

 

Fourth, plan your preshow entertainment:

1. Play a few rounds of “True American,” or make up your own version.

2. Nail art. Jess would approve.

3. Craft rules for a drinking game during the show (like a sip for every time Jess breaks into song, or whenever Nick frowns and looks like a grumpy Muppet)

4. Whet your appetite with the cast’s predictions for Season 3.