Lily Russo-Bah
It’s not the most practical of purchases, but there’s something about shopping for a party dress. Maybe it’s the promise of carefree revelry. Or perhaps it’s because your opportunities to go out-out (and dress up-up) have been reduced to a once-in-a-blue-moon frequency this year. Both reasonable explanations but, in fact, swathing oneself in sequins, velvet or satin until one appears positively festooned is reason enough to enjoy, nay, cherish the process of finding “the one”.
This year, party season kicked off early courtesy of one trend, which looks set to continue into December — the lace slip dress. Earlier this summer, street-stylers wore their negligee-style camisoles over wide-leg trousers or under oversized blazers (Zara’s was the one spotted on influencers, FYI). For a wintry interpretation of the ubiquitous trend, shops have dialled the lingerie-factor down a notch without losing any of the original’s sex appeal. Zara’s animal-print version, with lace bra cups that extend into straps, is mighty tantalising (and only £39.99).
If a slip isn’t your vibe, there’s nothing stopping you from opting for a gown, whether or not your night involves a red carpet. Taller Marmo, the kaftan label who this year is celebrating its 10th birthday, has just released its sumptuous resort collection, Nocturne, full of draping, fringing and the kind of colours that will knock your socks off (chartreuse, violet and ruby).
In between a slip and a swooshing ball gown, of course, there exists a spectrum of party dresses, from a rather angelic take on the “naked dress” category to a draped satin frock with a neckline that’s 100% chic. Keep scrolling to shop our edit of the best party dresses in the business. Trust us, these are so good that next year you might not be able to shop for “the one”. Why? Because it’ll already be hanging in your wardrobe.
Under £150
Zara's leopard-print slip dress proves everyone's favourite style is nowhere fast.
Effortless, timeless, and a dress you will wear time and time again. Just add sheer tights and you're good to go.
Gold is a guaranteed winner when it comes to party season - this draped style from M&S looks way beyond its High St price tag.
New Look is great for party dresses with an inclusive size range fitting up to a UK size 22.
I like to take a very literal approach to party dresses at Christmas time. So if the red, green, and gold sequins on this dress make me look like a Christmas bauble, then it fits the bill.
Some times the most understated of dresses can have the most impact. This sheer style from Asos can be dressed up this party season, but will look amazing with a pair of sandals next Spring too.
The thigh-high hemline of this velvet mini puts a fresh spin on the fabric.
No brand does affordable satin — that still feels sumptuous — quite like Ghost.
The Spilt sleeve mini dress from independent label Odd Muse has one of the most flattering silhouettes we've ever come across. Its a great desk to dance floor option too.
Invest in party dresses you can dress up and down depending on the occasion to make sure you get the least cost per wear - case in point is this simple tunic dress with exaggerated shoulders.
Under £250
Mint Velvet's forest dress dress has an ever-so-slight spangle, plus, and this is important, sleeves.
Arrange at ASOS is our go-to high-street label for standout party dresses. This embellished style won’t be around for long and is sure to turn heads on the dance floor.
Faux fur detailing isn't just for outerwear. We love this mini from Reiss' Atelier collection to make a statement this party season.
If you prefer to wear black but want to add some interest to your look, opt for vibrant embroidery like this Cheongsam-inspired dress.
Translucent at the bodice and below the mid-thigh, Baum und Pferdgarten puts forward the butter-wouldn't-melt naked dress for party season.
Boden's leopard-spotted shift dress can be paired with knee-high boots for a '60s take on party season.
When it comes to party season, comfort can still be key. This mini dress from Reiss, featuring cape details, gives you room to move on the dance floor while still delivering the wow factor.
Under £500
St Agni's minimal dress will still make an impact on the party circuit this Christmas.
Queens of Archive know how to design a great party dress — and this is just one of many from their collection on our wishlist.
The high cowl neck on this satin dress makes for a super chic silhouette.
Seen on the catwalk, COS' black dress has a swathe of fabric that can either encircle the waist or the elbows.
Flaring and gorgeously feminine, Alemais' party dress is the fairytale.
Under £750
Leopard-spotted with a lovely draped skirt, this two-for-the-price-of-one-dress is a special find from Jacques Wei.
This timeless bustier dress will easily take you from boardroom to bar. Just add a button up blazer by day and statement accessories before you jump in a taxi.
Retrofête's tiered silver mini dress is made to be noticed (and to dance in).
You can never go wrong with a great pink dress.
Under £1000
Throw-on-and-go dresses are my favourite, and this Simkhai dress delivers on low-effort, high-impact.
Tove's grown-up take on the party dress is given festive spirit courtesy of a berry-red colour scheme.
The timeless botanical print together with feathers make this a great party dress investment to wear all year round.
Self-Portrait's dress ticks off "razzle dazzle" — and then some.
Sequins and feathers are the best of friends come party season, especially when in the hands of 16Arlington.
Over £1000
Buck the trend for black, red or metallics this festive season, and stand out in primary coloured brights. You'll be the talk of the party.
If you're going to invest, choose timeless styles that you will love wearing for years to come. This black mini with voluminous skirt will be as stylish in 5 years time as it is today.
The ultra-feminine bow and fit-and-flare shape of this dress are balanced by the unexpected chocolate brown colourway — obsessed.
A floral dress isn't usually a common sighting on the party circuit, but why not opt for this surprising take of Tory Burch's. The blown-up lily print is beautiful, no?
Magda Butrym knows how to design dresses that flatter the female form, and we love the contrast between the modest coverage and the figure-hugging ruching in this midi dress.
Huishan Zhang's floral dress, meanwhile, is embellished so its surface resembles liquid sequins.
We love the draped neckline and thigh-split of this dress. Pair with a pair of 15 denier tights and strappy heels.
