From simple and classic to overstated and fabulous, shop our edit of the best evening dresses to buy now
The hunt for the best evening dresses is always a challenge, whether it's for a dinner date or an evening out with friends - and with wedding season fast approaching, it's never too early to start planning your after-hours wardrobe.
Black and sequin evening dresses are as popular as ever, as are chic evening dresses with sleeves, but for Spring/Summer, you can experiment a little more with shapes, colours and prints.
You may want to go for a colourful design, or a geometric print. A bright shade will make you instantly feel party-ready in no time. If you're more of a wallflower, pastel tones are are softer and more subtle option.
Though if black is your go-to, there's nothing wrong with that either. Try off-the-shoulder shapes and ruffles to update your party season look for Spring.
We'll leave you with a few tips on how to nail evening wear too, in case you need them.
Here at Marie Claire, we stand by the age-old advice of showing your arms or legs, but not both together. There are plenty of long slip dresses, and high neck mini dresses out there to ensure you look and feel elegant.
Accessories can really make or break an outfit so be careful not too go OTT - a single statement earring will instant elevate your ensemble.
Whatever your shape, budget or style, our evening dress has it covered. Purses at the ready! Click through to shop our edit of the best evening dresses available now...
This gorgeous floral embroidery is the perfect mix of feminine and fun.
Add an extra pop of colour to this dress with a bright coral lip for a gorgeous evening look.
With long flared sleeves and an asymmetric, this dress is both fashion forward and flattering.
Yellow goes surprisingly well with other bold colours like coral or green, so don’t be afraid to inject colour into your accessories.
Silver grey is the perfect choice for a stand out look without being too colour bold.
Looks much more expensive than it is, doesn’t it?
Going to a wedding this summer? Try this art deco dress.
The shimmery gold print is classy and sophisticated, and the soft drape is ideal for all shapes and sizes.
If you really want to put yourself out there, then opt for a monochrome dress sprinkled with coloured pompoms.
This playful tulle gown is best worn with the simplest scrappy heels.
For a casual evening look, team this dress with boots and relaxed, loose curls.
If you want a dressier version, try silver heels and a classy up-do.
Award season might be over for this year, but there's no need to banish sparkle from your life until 2018.
For a black tie affair, an all-over sequin dress is never too much.
With a high neck and fluted sleeves, this dress oozes feminine chic.
Oversized bows were everywhere on the catwalk at New York Fashion Week, so this dress is a safe investment.
Looking for a trans-seasonal dress that will brighten up your wardrobe? It's this one.
Don’t feel like you need to wear this dress with heels either - it will look just as lovely with some dressy sandals.
There’s no escaping the bohemian trend, and why would you want to?
Wear this gently floral midi dress with black or metallic mules.
If you want to stand out in a sea of LBDs, this is for you.
Dare to bare with this mini, and brave the animal print trend for guaranteed party sass.
How to do florals the subtle way.
This dress is simple yet chic, and we can see this becoming a staple of our Spring wardrobe.
The flattering and fun monochrome graphic print makes this dress a sure-fire hit for any evening occasion.
Try adding some 70s style suede peep-toe heels for a look that's super sleek.
Oh, how we love a bit of red in summer!
This lace panel dress is so elegant that you'll want to wear it everywhere you go.
The shirt dress just got an evening makeover.
Proof that oversized can also be perfect evening wear, this is a great day-to-night dress.
Embrace the 20s trend at a summer cocktail party.
The print silk-chiffon maxi dress is both soft and playful.
You know you’re sorted for parties for years to come when you’ve got a dress like that hanging in your closet.
The classic LBD with a twist, this will quickly become your go-to party dress.
Don’t ruin the minimalist effect here by overloading with accessories.
Instead, simple sandals and stud earrings will do just fine.
If you’re a minimalist at heart, this dress is for you.
Keep things simple with a chic clutch and your favourite sandals.
You can never go wrong with polka dots and ruffles.
Make this dress work for the evening with a slick of red lipstick and stilettos.
Can't choose between traditionally light Spring colours and your go-to dark Winter hues? You don't have to.
Gradually ease yourself into the new season with this flirty floral dress which comes in tall, petite and curve to suit all body shapes. Perfect.
This dress is a great mix of party and business.
Florals and lace are two big trends for summer, so tick them both off in one go with this dress.