The best cocktail dresses are the middlemen of the formalwear world. From fancy dinners to work celebrations to, yes, even weddings, the appeal of these party dresses lies in their versatility: With the right accessories, that sequin mini dress you’ve been eyeing works just as well for your friend’s courthouse celebration as it does an upcoming birthday. So why not add a few extra pieces to your closet? Think of it as manifesting more festivity, one lace-trimmed slip dress at a time.
Vogue’s Favorite Cocktail Dresses:
If you’re shopping for a wedding guest dress, the specs to search by are a little more stringent. Typically, a “cocktail attire” dress code means something knee-length or a midi dress (though shorter styles done in a luxe fabric, like taffeta or silk organza, could also be appropriate depending on the venue). Steer clear of floor-length gowns in favor of breezier silhouettes, like a halterneck ankle-grazing style or something with an asymmetrical handkerchief hemline.
If you’re shopping more generally, anything goes. A lemon-colored square-neck mini with floral appliqués? Absolutely. A glittery mock-neck dress—why not? A clingy cowl neck number that looks straight out of a ’90s fever dream (in the best way)? Sure. This sartorial prompt is your chance to go a bit outside of the box and get creative; but if you need a little inspiration to start your search, the below cocktail dresses should offer plenty.
A Mini Moment
Don’t underestimate the power of a mini dress. Whether worn with sky-high platforms or styled with sleek kitten heels, shorter shapes can work for special occasions, too. Pick an A-line halter in seafoam green from Cos for a late summer cocktail party; for something later in the season, a long-sleeve or one-shoulder style, like these from Bernadette and Staud, might be more appropriate.
The Perfect Midi
When the temperature dips and you crave a little more coverage, the midi dress is a timeless option for weddings. Simple silk slips are pretty much season-less: Pop a shawl over these options from Isabel Marant and Dries Van Noten for colder climates. Minimalism not your thing? Voluminous skirts from the likes of Simkhai and Colombian label Maygel Coronel offer a high-drama approach to formal dresses.
Sequined Stunners
When in doubt, sequins always feel special. A strapless mid-length piece is a perfect match for a semi-formal dress code; Staud makes a pared-back version complete with an embellished beaded floral print that’s ideal if you don’t want to look like a disco ball. (Though if that does sound appealing… might we suggest this long-sleeved Alaïa piece?)
Moody Florals
Who says florals are just for spring? Kika Vargas and Victoria Bechkam’s darker palettes are a smart pairing for autumnal occasions (plus, Khaite’s navy sheath dress is so minimal, it’s essentially a neutral). For something even more subtle, La Double J’s rose-red, corset-top dress has a faded jacquard pattern.
Classic LBDs
A little black dress is the demure answer for anyone after understated sophistication (or anyone with decision paralysis—this is one investment you won’t regret). Whether it’s Reformations off-the-shoulder neckline or Oscar De La Renta’s sleeveless midi, you can never go wrong with a sleek black ensemble.
’90s Revival
From a classic lace slip dress to a slinky maxi dresses from Zara and Paloma Wool, you can channel your favorite ’90s supermodel at your next event with one of these wish list dresses. You’ll be the epitome of glamour in a scoop-neck aqua stunner from Banana Republic or a classic Versace bodycon LBD.