If you’re looking for something to wear to a party or special event, consider a cocktail dress. They’re shorter than formal gowns and fall just above or below the knee.
They’re available in a wide range of colors, lengths, styles, neck and sleeve shapes, and fabrics. These shorter dresses are a great option for women who want to look elegant, yet comfortable.
A-line
A-line cocktail dresses are one of the most popular types of party dresses. They feature a fitted bodice that flares out at the waistline (through sewing darts) to create a classic triangle shape like a capital letter A.
Dresses in this style look great on nearly any body type. Textures like jersey pintucking and pleating create flattering textures that mold to the body.
These special occasion styles can be cut from lightweight fabrics, such as textured crepe or jacquard. These fabrics accentuate draping wonderfully and provide a luxurious feel without being too heavy to wear.
Embroidered lace and tulle are also popular choices for evening dresses in this silhouette. They’re lightweight and breathable, and are especially beautiful when embellished with shimmering sequins or sparkling glitter.
Maxi
Maxi cocktail dresses are an excellent choice for women who are attending a semi-formal or casual event. You can wear them for a birthday party, graduation 2023, wedding reception, or any other type of social occasion.
Maxi dress are very comfortable and they are a great way to show off your legs. They can be made of various fabrics like chiffon, lace and linen.
You can also wear a maxi dress with a pair of high heels and accessories. This can make you feel very elegant and stylish.
When you are wearing a maxi cocktail dress, you should choose a light and airy fabric like chiffon. This will give you a light, floaty appearance and the skirt will flutter in the breeze.
When you are choosing a maxi dress for an occasion, remember to take the venue and season into consideration. For summer, a maxi dress in terra cotta or mustard tones will look beautiful, while jewel tones are a classic pick for fall and winter.
Strapless
Strapless cocktail dresses are a classic style that works well for a wide variety of occasions. These dresses are flattering for a variety of body types and come in various colors, styles, and fabrics.
You can wear a strapless dress to a formal wedding, a casual party, or any other type of event that requires an evening gown. Whether you want to show off your figure or not, these dresses will flatter your bust, shoulders, and legs, making you feel confident.
If you’re looking for a flattering style that will suit your age and size, consider an A-line, tiered, or asymmetrical style. You can also find stretchy, lace, or embellished fabric options for your favorite cocktail dress.
Strapless cocktail dresses are also a great option for women with fuller figures. This flattering wrap dress enhances a heavier bust and draws attention to slender wrists, which will look beautiful with sparkly accessories.
Vintage
Cocktail dresses are short, less formal and have far fewer ornaments than floor-length ball gowns. They are a great choice for semi-formal events, such as dinners, lunches, parties and evening celebrations.
They can be worn with other cocktail dresses and are easy to dress up with accessories like gloves, dazzled heels and jewelry for a complete look. If you want to be authentic to a specific era, pair a vintage dress with a coordinating skirt or a fringed kimono coat for extra flair!
Vintage cocktail dresses are a must have in any closet. From sparking 1920s flapper dresses to elegant 1930s lace sheaths, classy 1940s fit and flares, flirty 1950s swing dresses and swinging 1960s mini skirts, there is a frock for everyone! Shop a wide selection of new and vintage cocktail dresses on 1stDibs today.