Cocktail Dresses & Party Dresses
Don’t be modest, we know how popular you are, and since it’s too cold for barbeques or beach parties, fall through winter is a time for straight up cocktail parties, where you’ll be expected to wear straight up cocktail dresses (and if you’ve had a tough week at work, drink straight up cocktails). We’ve picked out our favorite party dresses for women to pencil in to your upcoming fiesta schedule; they’ll ensure that you’ll stand out while you schmooze.
When gearing up for cocktail parties, don’t forget to accessorize – we’ve got guides for evening bags, jewelry and party shoes too.
For more top dresses picks, check out our guides to summer dresses, maxi dresses, and celebrity dresses.
Sleeveless Party Dresses
Those cocktail parties can get hot, so if your recession-conscious hostess refuses to turn up the air, you better attend wearing a sleeveless party dress.
 |
 |
 |
| J. Crew Silk Sirrah Dress $80 The more ruffles the better – this granite design from the always-reliable J. Crew’s fall collection has a pretty neckline and will look ideal paired with a pair of sleek black booties.
|
Velvet Liz Dress $152 Intricate stud detail around the neckline (it goes all the way around the back) makes this dress more special than an everyday LBD – but just as versatile. |
Twinkle Evening Walk Dress $302 We love the rich blue-green color and the texture and pleating at the waist; this one’s easy to dress up (stiletto sandals and diamond studs) or down (gladiator flats and a denim jacket). |
Strapless Party Dresses
Contrary to the beliefs of many, strapless is not only for summer. Not only that, but your neck and shoulders are two of the most feminine (and sexy) parts of your body; show them off!
 |
 |
 |
| Ecote Strapless Colorblock Dress $58 A flattering fit and flare shape is easy to dance around (and sit) in for an entire night. |
Phoebe Couture Feather-Hem Silk Dress $350
This silk design is classic enough for even the most stuffy of cocktail parties – but sexy enough to be worn out on the town once you’ve taken advantage of their open bar. |
Nicole Miller Deco Tape Dress $403.75 Graphic prints like the pattern on this art deco-inspired Nicole Miller strapless dress are in this season. Miller spices up the futuristic look with the slight splash of blue on this black and gray style. |
Cap Sleeved Party Dresses
Michelle Obama is often seen at various Presidential parties in the cap sleeve cocktail dress; it’s traditional, but doesn’t have to be conservative.
 |
 |
 |
| Silence & Noise Silk Jacquard Pleated Dress $68 From Urban Outfitters comes this 1960s style mini-dress. Great with black tights or solo, this will look effortless at any party. |
Theory “Kobe” Nouvella Black Dress $190 Throw on a fuzzy fall sweater and this sexy Theory dress with a revealing back can double for the office. |
Fitted Cap Sleeve Dress $380 With a sloping back, this blue satin cocktail dress shows off just enough skin. We love the pleating and its unique, modern color. |
One-Shoulder Party Dresses
One-shouldered party dresses for women are a nifty, trendy way to dress for a cocktail party.
 |
 |
 |
| Asymmetrical Ruffle Dress $152 This one is festive enough for invites with the dreaded “festive attire;” silver silk and a flouncy ruffle are exactly right for the holidays. |
Parker One-Shoulder Dress $198 Fancy up this simple, girly dress with big dangly earrings and a pair of interesting strappy shoes. |
Alice + Olivia One Shoulder Sequin Dress $484 We’d wear this with a black boyfriend blazer and substantial booties to balance out all the sparkle. |
SHOP cocktail dresses
MORE cocktail dresses »
See All Of The Week’s Sample Sales
Check Out Lady Gaga and Cate Blanchett In Vogue
Avoid Winter Doldrums with Franco Sarto Boots
