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Ready the arsenal: A new season's refreshed social calendar will bring an onslaught of invites. Whether your inbox foresees a birthday party, wedding reception, work function, or any other dressy event, it will be handy to have a few co*cktail dresses in the rotation.
Our Top Picks:
1
Best co*cktail Dress on Amazon
ASTR the Label Sleeveless Lace Fit & Flare Midi Dress
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2
Best Figure-Flattering co*cktail Dress
Kiyonna Rumor Ruched Body-Con Dress
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3
4
Best Little Black Dress
Maggy London Illusion Yoke Crepe co*cktail Dress
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5
Dress The Population Sloane Body-Con Midi Dress
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6
Best Versatile Dress
M.M. La Fleur The Malala Dress
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7
8
Classic Silk Dress
Quince 100 Percent Washable Silk Slip Dress
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9
Best One-Shoulder Option
MakeMeChic Plus-Size One-Shoulder Belted Wrap Midi Dress
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10
But with so many dress codes to decipher, you may be wondering: What is appropriate for co*cktail attire, and what exactly is a co*cktail dress? Less fussy and formal than an evening gown, a co*cktail dress is appropriate for a myriad of dressy parties. There are, of course, spring dress styles that run the gamut, from sleeveless to one-shoulder to long-sleeve if you’re looking for arm coverage. Length and fabrication, more often than not, is a good indication of a co*cktail dress. However, don't fret. Cooler autumn weather still allows for fun mini to midi dresses, but pay attention to material such as airy silk, satin, draped jersey, and the like. And have fun with embellishment! Sequins, florals, and lace bring the festive spirit. While color is always an encouraged choice, a glamorous little black dress won’t fail you if the invite calls for co*cktail attire. To complete your evening outfit, opt for heels or fancy flats, a fun bag, and gleaming jewelry.
Here is our edit of the best co*cktail dresses to make an entrance in, no matter what your budget, body type, or celebration.
1
Best co*cktail Dress on Amazon
ASTR the Label Sleeveless Lace Fit & Flare Midi Dress
1
Best co*cktail Dress on Amazon
ASTR the Label Sleeveless Lace Fit & Flare Midi Dress
Sweet lace is foolproof when the warmer weather sets in. This feminine fit-and-flare frock should do the trick for a co*cktail attire wedding. Throw on a shawl over your shoulders for cooler weather outings and it's still guaranteed to impress.
2
Best Figure-Flattering co*cktail Dress
Kiyonna Rumor Ruched Body-Con Dress
2
Best Figure-Flattering co*cktail Dress
Kiyonna Rumor Ruched Body-Con Dress
Allover ruching, fluttery sleeves, a V-neck, and stretch jersey make this dress a reliable standby for an evening event.
Sleek and low-key sexy, this body-con column dress features bra-friendly wide straps, a draped cowl neck and bodice, and an asymmetrical hemline. Translation: a lot of dress for $35.
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4
Best Little Black Dress
Maggy London Illusion Yoke Crepe co*cktail Dress
4
Best Little Black Dress
Maggy London Illusion Yoke Crepe co*cktail Dress
Now 30% Off
Sheer mesh brings an understated elegance to this classic black dress. Don't miss the elongating front seams and V-back.
5
Dress The Population Sloane Body-Con Midi Dress
Simple yet sophisticated, this figure-hugging sheath has a sweetheart neckline and darted seams for a little oomph.
6
Best Versatile Dress
M.M. La Fleur The Malala Dress
6
Best Versatile Dress
M.M. La Fleur The Malala Dress
Simple yet elegant and dressy, this number goes great with a pair of high heels and a statement necklace or chandelier earrings. Plus, you can transform this co*cktail dress from nighttime to office with a neutral blazer.
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7
Best Floral Dress
Reformation Frasier Dress
7
Best Floral Dress
Reformation Frasier Dress
If romantic florals are your calling card, be sure to check out Reformation. The contemporary brand offers a covetable selection of party dresses, such as this pretty cap-sleeved midi with side-button detail—lovely for a spring co*cktail.
8
Classic Silk Dress
Quince 100 Percent Washable Silk Slip Dress
8
Classic Silk Dress
Quince 100 Percent Washable Silk Slip Dress
If you don't own a slip dress, snap this one up immediately. Crafted of 100 percent mulberry silk with a flattering bias cut (and available in a slew of colors), it's the ultimate workhorse. Wear it solo, topped with a tuxedo blazer, piles of jewelry...it's a blank canvas.
9
Best One-Shoulder Option
MakeMeChic Plus-Size One-Shoulder Belted Wrap Midi Dress
9
Best One-Shoulder Option
MakeMeChic Plus-Size One-Shoulder Belted Wrap Midi Dress
One-shoulder styles continue to reign, and this plus-size option ticks all the boxes: It has stretch, a flattering wrap front, and an adjustable self-tie belt, and it comes in a range of colors.
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10
Best Cutout Dress
The Drop Jacob Long-Sleeved Cutout Midi Dress
10
Best Cutout Dress
The Drop Jacob Long-Sleeved Cutout Midi Dress
Want to test out the ubiquitous cutout trend? Try it on a long-sleeved style, like this wearable A-line dress that reveals just a hint of skin.
11
Best Plus-Size Option
Lulu's Reinette Mauve Purple Midi Dress
11
Best Plus-Size Option
Lulu's Reinette Mauve Purple Midi Dress
With a flattering wrap front and tulip hem, this spaghetti strap dress, available from XXS through size 3X, is appropriate for a fancy dinner or date night.
12
Best Black co*cktail Dress
Vince Camuto Popover co*cktail Dress
With a foldover neckline that bares the shoulders, this fitted sheath offers a unique take on the LBD.
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13
Best Wide-Sleeve co*cktail Dress
NA-KD Trend Wide-Sleeve Midi Dress Green
13
Best Wide-Sleeve co*cktail Dress
NA-KD Trend Wide-Sleeve Midi Dress Green
Now 79% Off
Like a jolt of confidence, this wide-sleeve midi number in green will have you feeling extra bold.
14
Elliatt Camo Asymmetrical Satin co*cktail Dress
14
Elliatt Camo Asymmetrical Satin co*cktail Dress
It's all about the cowl-neck halter and the edgy asymmetrical hem on this satin mini dress.
15
Best Flowy Dress
Mango Flared-Sleeve Dress
A flowy, softly draped fit lets the sunny yellow hue shine on this midi dress.
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16
Best Bodycon Dress
Open Edit Drape Knit Body-con Dress
A versatile long-sleeved silhouette in a punchy, "look at me" color works for a slew of events. Plus, the stretchy fabric and side ruching flatters all body types.
17
Most Unique co*cktail Dress
Never Fully Dressed Khaki Jaspre Skirt with Gold Fleck
17
Most Unique co*cktail Dress
Never Fully Dressed Khaki Jaspre Skirt with Gold Fleck
You'll get compliments all night in this unique dress that feels plucked from a vintage store. The olive dress with gold details is also great for mixing and matching. We especially love the skirt that offers pretty movement when you're walking (or dancing).
18
Best Ribbed Dress
Pink Queen Cutout Ribbed Midi Dress
18
Best Ribbed Dress
Pink Queen Cutout Ribbed Midi Dress
Available in over 25 color combinations, this slim-fit, ribbed dress with waist cutout just needs heels and a clutch.
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19
Most Romantic co*cktail Dress
GOELIA Pink Ruched Midi Dress with Belt
19
Most Romantic co*cktail Dress
GOELIA Pink Ruched Midi Dress with Belt
Billowy soft sleeves, soft buttons, and a fitted waist with belt (not to mention the cotton-candy-pink hue) make for a romantic effect.
20
Best Sequin Dress
& Other Stories Sequin Wrap Mini Dress
20
Best Sequin Dress
& Other Stories Sequin Wrap Mini Dress
Sparkly metallic silver was seen all over the runways this spring, and this festive mini with wrap front is a festive way to tap into the trend.
Paula Lee
Freelance Fashion Editor
Paula Lee is a freelance Fashion Editor. Off duty, she can be found day-tripping around the tri-state area, hanging around farm animals, or browsing the library stacks.
PoojaShah
Freelance Writer
Pooja Shah is a freelance writer and lawyer based in New York. She writes on commerce, culture, lifestyle, and travel. More of her work is at www.pooja-shah.com.
