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What’s the most exciting part about receiving an invite (other than the invite itself, of course)? Shopping for the best party dresses that fit the mood. It’s not only a form of indulgence, it’s a chance to embrace a level of glamour not often found in the everyday. Everyone’s version of razzle-dazzle varies—luckily, there are party dresses for every occasion, dress code, and personal style ethos.
The Best Party Dresses
- The Crochet-Knit Must: Diotima Medusa fringe maxi dress, $1,495
- The Lace-Detailed Slip: Massimo Dutti lace midi slip dress, $170
- The Sleek Midi: Helsa The S Curve midi dress, $298
- The Mighty Mini: Simkhai India satin twill mini dress, $645
- The Dazzling Strapless: Mango low-cut teardrop sequin dress, $600
- The Little Black Dress: Tory Burch jersey hoop dress, $1,398
- The Playful Print: Madga Butrym ruched floral maxi dress, $2,495
Have you taken a peak at the spring/summer 2024 runways? Extravagance is in—and many designers, from Valentino to Chloe, are capturing feminine flights of fancy with eccentric details, bold colors, and modern silhouettes. There are high-shine options from Rotate and J.Crew that’ll refract below a disco ball. For a black-tie wedding or cocktail party, look at Tove’s one-shouldered LBD or Dries Van Noten’s painted midi. Less is more doesn’t have to lack excitement—proven by the sheer cascading ruffles on the Marlies Grace Bea dress and the fold-over strapless neckline on Emilia Wickstead’s ivory midi. Needless to say, there are countless ways to ensure you’re dressed to the nines for every event on the calendar.
As the invitations to weddings, holiday parties, and birthday fêtes roll in, you’ll find a suitable party dress below whether the affair requires a pared-back mini or a hypnotizing shimmer for nights spent dancing until sunrise, ahead.
High-Shine
The best sequin dresses conjure a jovial feel that only a little glimmer and shine can truly bring out. This season, we’re gravitating toward one-and-done pieces from Mango and Rotate to Des Phemmes and Cos. Zara’s slipdress feels especially of the moment with its all-over rhinestones set on chainmail.
Mighty Minis
Nothing screams “I’m ready to have a good time” quite like a party-friendly minidress. For a leg-bearing statement, look for styles that balance the above-the-knee hemline with draped finishes, ample volume, or a fit-and-flare silhouette.
The Little Black Dress
No party wardrobe is complete without a little LBD. A night out on the town is the perfect opportunity to go bold and sleek with Toteme’s strapless dress cut or Helsa’s figure-hugging midi. Meanwhile, Tory Burch is yet again providing the It girl with options with its beloved Hoop dress defined by futuristic swirling structures.
Maximum-Impact Maxis
Looking for something with a bit of coverage that also feels festive? Count on maxis with fabulous details—like Paris Georgia’s liquid burnt red dress or the bohemian layers on the below De La Vali dress—to deliver.
The White-ish Dress
For social-filled days and nights ahead, don’t forgo a white dress—they transcend any season. These aren’t your standard summer dresses, however. Bottega Veneta’s is perfect for a fancy brunch, while Zara’s open-back midi dress nods to the noughties.
Out of the Boudoir
Slip dresses and semi-sheer lace are no long exclusive to the bedroom. In fact, we’re taking them out on the town thanks to designers bridging the gap between privacy and party. Add a simple kitten heel to play up vintage sensibilities with Nili Lotan and Massimo Dutti. Or, give a unique style a spin with something like Jason Wu’s crinkled organza dress.
