Building a wardrobe of essentials for different events helps you get ready without putting in much effort. This also applies to occasion wear such as party dresses to avoid the ‘what do I wear’ dilemma before every party. We understand that collecting a plethora of party dresses is not ideal since they are not worn regularly, unlike daily wear clothing. Having too many party dresses is also not sustainable for the closet space or your wallet.
Trying to figure out how many party dresses you actually need? We’ve got you covered. These ideas and tips on how to style dresses for different parties will come in clutch all year around and you can pick and choose from the ones you need. Whether you’re a social butterfly or expecting only a few invites in 2024, build a party-ready wardrobe with this guide.
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1. Birthday
Ring in your birthday this year in a sensuous black mini dress paired with minimal jewellery and wedge heels to support your feet through all the dancing. Arguably one of the most important parties of the year, your birthday outfit should make you feel nothing less than the ‘main character’. While a strapless LBD is classic, you can also opt for one with shoulder straps or chains, halter neck, mesh sleeves or romantic bell sleeves – your party, your choice.
Available in every possible style and design, a black dress can really solve all your problems – it’s delulu girl science. In fact, you can recreate all of the below listed styling tips with a solid black dress. Keep reading!
2. Anniversary
Fit and flare dresses are elegant and romantic as they give you a float-y feel. You can choose a dress with an underbust flare or from the waist, depending on your body type and which area you want to highlight. Pair a fit and flare dress with high heels and statement earrings for a dressy look or give it a casual touch by wearing a corset belt. Glide through the room with your significant other at your next anniversary party.
3. Dance Night
A classic addition to your party outfit collection, bodycon dresses highlight your curves while looking chic. Pair the fitted dress with stockings and comfortable boots for a night of dancing. You can also opt for fitted sweater dresses for colder weather or layer with a quilted jacket. Pro tip: Wear seamless undergarments under your bodycon dress to avoid visible lines.
4. Cocktail Parties
Sequins are the choice of bling at the moment and your party dress wardrobe will truly remain incomplete without a sequined dress or gown for cocktail evenings or even bachelorette parties. From asymmetrical details to sequined long gowns, add a touch of whimsy to your next cocktail party look. Pair the dress with strappy heels, let your hair down, and show off the bold no-jewellery look.
5. Valentines
If you’re participating in Valentines festivities with friends or hosting a Galantines with the girl squad, turn heads in a satin slip dress to win (or break hearts). We recommend a pastel slip dress with red accent heels and bag for a subtle nod to the Valentine colours. Wish to go all out? Wear a red dress with soft gold metallic jewellery and accessories.
6. House party
Do you feel comfortable in oversized t-shirts at home? Well, we can thankfully get the same comfort while looking put together at house parties with t-shirt dresses. They will hug your body while letting you breathe. If you wish to add more length, wear a skirt with lace details at the hem for a peek-a-boo effect. Accessories with a choker necklace to elevate the look.
7. Brunch and Casual Lunch
Day outings are the ideal time to bring out floral dresses. Flowy floral dresses are breathable and will keep you cool, especially during outdoor parties. While kitten heels are a classic footwear option, you can also wear sneakers and a cap to add a casually cool element to your outfit.
8. Formal Fiestas
While throwing on a blazer over your dresses is always an option, you’d be missing out if you didn’t try out the trendy blazer dress. You can choose from solid black blazer dresses to options with embellished buttons and sequined lapels.
9. College Events
A rite of passage for students, school and college farewell parties are a special occasion full of memories. You will cherish these dresses for a long time and opting for timeless floor-length gowns will allow you to wear them again later. Long gowns are also ideal for parties with a black-tie or formal dress code.
10. Winter Soirée
Party dresses often feature short lengths, cutouts, or off the shoulder details, which look fashionable but can make you feel cold on winter nights. However, you can seamlessly transition all your dresses for colder weather with light weight leather or denim jackets and sheer fur stockings.
