With the festive season fast approaching, it's finally time to start searching for the best party dresses to see you through the many nights out, Xmas 'dos and NYE parties that will quickly start filling up your calendar. And here at Cosmo, we're already gearing up for a spot of evening-wear shopping – because it's never too early to get into the festive spirit, right?
Although, it's worth remembering that you don't have to go clubbing to wear a lil' number; after years of WFH in tracksuits, we'd happily wear sequins everywhere from the corner shop to the pub. Just try and stop us. There's sparkles aplenty in this edit (metallic minis, bedazzled, embellished, silk, satin and velvet designs) but also a lot of 'wearable' pieces too; there's nothing better for your purse strings, or the planet, than a dress you can re-purpose endlessly post-event.
Into hardcore glam? Try this season's bow trend, or anything feather-trimmed. Got evening drinks? Try a mesh-panelled dress or an LBD elevated with jewellery. If you've got a restaurant date, try a formal look toned down with flats, or just throw a blazer over the top (slip dresses are great for this high-low styling). Glamming up to stay in? Try a luxe maxi and slides elevated with jewellery. Finally, for day parties with pals, feel free to go all out with an OTT dress – so long as you pair it with trainers or streetwear-inspired accessories, you're all good.
Keep scrolling to see our top 40 party dresses to shop in 2023.
Nothing says party quite like a full feathered lewk. We're obsessed with Topshop's fiery red mini – with its open back and spaghetti straps, this baby is all kinds of flapper girl chic.
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Nobody's Child Petite silver metallic vienna mini dress
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Nobody's Child Petite silver metallic vienna mini dress
It's no secret that silver has been the shade of the year and the metallic trend is going nowhere anytime soon. We're looking forward to styling this Nobody's Child dress with an oversized headband and Mary Janes this party szn.
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Best long party dress
Karen Millen Embellished Fringe Plunge Neck Midi Dress
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Best long party dress
Karen Millen Embellished Fringe Plunge Neck Midi Dress
Now 20% Off
It wouldn't be a party dress edit without a few fringed lewks, are we right? We'll be channelling our inner Hollywood film star in this amazing midaxi from Karen Millen. Just look at those crystal embellishments and that sexy thigh-high slit!
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Sequins are always a party-season essential and we're obsessed with Sézane's cool take on the sparkly trend. This gorge mini is crafted from velvet and features subtly puffed sleeves and a gently draped skirt.
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Abercrombie & Fitch Giselle pleated trapeze mini dress
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Abercrombie & Fitch Giselle pleated trapeze mini dress
The Giselle dress from Abercrombie & Fitch has quickly become a bestseller for the brand, and we can see why. We're in love with the A-line shape, open-back and fir-tree green hue on this pleated number.
If the sequinned lewks from Rabanne's recent collab with H&M weren't for you, this LBD might be more up your street. Crafted from jersey, this is probably one of the comfiest party dresses in our edit, but the frilled trims and playful puff ball skirt keep it feeling faaancy.
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Reformation's gorge nude sequin dress is giving us all the 16Arlington vibes but without the hefty price tag. Praise be for bridge brands 🙏.
Christmas parties are a great excuse to dress up in big bows – you know, to remind your friends and family that you are the present!
Obvs, red is the colour of the festive season, but we actually think H&M's crimson midi will work all year round thanks to the timeless midi silhouette and flattering ruching.
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If you've got a lil' bit of money to splash on a designer party dress this year, we can't recommend this Ganni style enough. The brand has put a modern twist on the nightie silhouette by adorning this mini with hundreds of red sequins.
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New in from H&M, this little red mini is defined by its asymmetric neckline and super festive bow detailing. We're already envisioning wearing ours on Xmas eve with a red lip and statement earrings.
Nude sequins are the biggest party trend of the year and it's safe to say we are obsessed. Mango has made this slinky mini even more party appropriate by adding feather fringing to the hem. J'adore.
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If you haven't already heard of British fashion brand Joanie, let us give you a quick intro. Founded in 2016, the label is known and loved for its snuggly pjs, amaze collabs and super reasonable prices. Case in point: this gorgeous velvet mini dress which is under £80.
Sister Jane is always a safe bet when it comes to party dresses – whether you're into embroidered frocks, ball gowns or sequin minis, the brand always comes through. We're loving the tiered skirt and deep V-neckline on this number.