I'm starting party season early, and these are my favourite dance floor worthy dresses
Great options to love for many years to come
It's never too early to start searching for party dresses to invest in, so you're ready for when the invitations for office parties, Christmas dinners, winter weddings, and festive tipples start coming in.
While we first started spotting the major party season trends on the autumn/winter catwalks back in February, designs have started to land on the virtual and physical shelves, with many starting to sell out.
This season, darker hues continue reigning supreme, with shades of plum and burgundy taking the lead. Regardless, for those who tend to opt for brighter colours, this summer's butter yellow is trickling down to autumn in the form of silk, chiffon, and collared dresses. Whilst reds and greens, often associated with the season, are slowly increasing in search and continue to remain very popular this year.
Of course, you'll never go wrong with a little black dress, and this season, it looks exquisite, with Mango's latest backless offering and Khaite's mini dress version elevating the timeless style.
I've made a conscious effort to include party dresses that stand out and tick off this season's trends while being timeless enough to be worn for seasons to come. However, if you're looking for a more sustainable alternative, I'm a big believer in renting party dresses from platforms like HURR and By Rotation. It's a great way to wear designer clothes you might not be able to afford normally, plus, you're guaranteed to never experience dress fatigue.
If you're looking to add to your forever wardrobe though, then keep scrolling.
Under £100
With a buttermilk hue and expert form-fitting cut, you’d be forgiven for thinking this dress is from a designer label.
Mango has cottoned on to the scarf dress trend, releasing this asymmetric style complete with throw-over-the-shoulder detailing.
Klyd Loose Tube Dress
Master of basics Klayd, master form-fitting basics for every woman. I particularly enjoy elevating basics in the evening, with complimentary jewellery and heels.
M&S X Sienna Miller has granted us many treasures, one of which is this svelte dress comprising 100% silk and a deep set V-neck.
Under £250
A silken slip dress you’ll have in your arsenal for the foreseeable future.
This motif-adorned frock will make a worthy investment as you can easily style it for day and night.
When buying a sequined piece, opt for second-hand or a reputable sustainable brand.
Inspired by the Starry Night’s sky, this Kitri piece was made with holidays in mind and (dare I say it), New Year's Eve parties.
Editor tip; head to The Outnet for past-season treasures like this disco-ready mini dress, courtesy of In the Mood for Love.
Under £300
Granted, Rixo partywear will always land you in good stead. Its classic and vintage-inspired silhouettes attract many of the fashion set.
& Other Stories Savoir Collection comprises '50s-inspired silhouettes, textiles and opulent styles.
Oséree is renowned for resort wear pieces and its party dresses are every bit as special. A golden sheen runs throughout this voile.
Ghost’s A/W 2024 collection has landed just in time for party season. Its characteristic bias fit paired with this olive colourway (and gaped back) is bound to turn heads.
Under £500
Realisation Par’s offerings are made with occasion wear in mind. From jacquard print midi dresses to floral print minis, there’s something for all this festive season.
Ninety Percent’s directorial dresses are among some of my favourites this season.
Thin swathes of fabric adorned with sequins. It’s light on the skin, dramatic (by way of the transparent feature) and free-flowing.
Don’t sleep on Labeca for party dresses. Although it’s best known for linen pieces, many of its offerings make great party dresses. Case in point, this floral adorned midi dress. Nothing says party quite like a burgeoning bloom!
Lean into flapper girl style with this tassel-decorated hem. It’s the perfect piece for gracing the dancefloor.
Under £1000
Christopher Esber excels when it comes to partywear. Its unique shapes and candied colourways will make you feel like a million dollars.
This season, burgundy has spearheaded colour trends. Aya Muse’s draped style is truly unique.
A whimsical offering courtesy of the Ukranian brand, Anna October. The darling floral embellishment makes this a head-turning party piece.
The Georgia Hardinge fossil dress has gained quite the fanbase over the past years. From the metallic foiling to the ruching and pleated skirt, there are many elements to applaud.
Over £1000
I’m forever in awe of the intricate embellishment in Clio Peppiatt’s designs.
Alaïa is renowned for its tantalising footwear. Equally as notable are its dress offerings, most of which swing in the direction of occasion.
For a few seasons, Grecian style draping has dominated dress trends and in true Magda Butrym style, this dress features the signature floral applique.
It wouldn’t be a party dress edit without one of Taller Marmo’s exquisite designs.
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Sofia Piza is the Fashion Writer at Marie Claire UK.
Sofia Piza is a Fashion Writer with experience working across runway trends, shopping picks, creative production, and celebrity fashion news. Born in Mexico and raised in five countries, Sofia decided to settle in London after spending four years at the London College of Fashion, studying Fashion Journalism. When she's not sourcing inspiration from social media, you will most certainly find Sofia anywhere from a local vintage market to busy central London streets people watching - the possibilities are endless.
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