As much as we love a good soiree, and boy do we love them, the pressure that comes with finding the perfect thing to wear is enough to put us in a style standstill.
But when you find the dress, the cocktail dress that perfectly matches style, elegance and fun – well that’s something we can raise a glass to.
If you’re anything like us then you’ve wasted hours scrolling and scrolling on the internet to find said dress. But if you’re still coming up empty then have no fear because as experts in shopping, we have done the hard work for you and pulled together a guide to our top picks across the ‘net.
So scroll on, add to cart and focus on dancing the night away in your new favourite ensemble.
2024’s top 3 cocktail dresses
- Bardot Verona Sequin Maxi Dress, $229.99 at The Iconic
- Shadows In The Sun Mesh Maxi Dress, $99.95 at Peppermayo
- Joan Mini Dress, $159 at Meshki
The best cocktail dresses for your next event in 2024
Bardot Verona Sequin Maxi Dress
$229.99 at The Iconic
Shimmer, shine and dance the night away in this glimmering sequined midi dress from Bardot that hugs your curves and finishes flattering under the knees. It has an air of elegance to it yet still feels fun and flirty thanks to all the glitter.
Sizes: 6 to 16 | Colours: Nude, Dark Choco, Burgundy and Purple | Materials: 100 per cent polyethylene Terephthalate
Style notes:
- Keyhole with satin tie
- Midi length
- Low rounded neckline
- Slightly sheer
Shadows In The Sun Mesh Maxi Dress
$99.95 at Peppermayo
Perfect for sunset summer soirees this chic cut-out maxi dress feels pulled together yet youthful thanks to the artfully placed cutouts that show some skin without going overboard. Pair with nude heels and a deep nude lip for a head-turning look.
Sizes: 4 to 22 | Colours: Hazel Bloom | Materials: 95 per cent polyester 5 per cent spandex
Style notes:
- Lined
- Cut out waist
- Invisible side zipper
- One shoulder design
Joan Mini Dress
$159 at Meshki
Meshki is known for its enormous array of event-ready dresses and sets, we can’t take our eyes off this sweet mini dress with an adorable mini polka dot print. It gives of a vintage vibe but still feels modern and fresh.
Sizes: XXS to 3XL | Colours: Cream with Polka Dots | Materials: 55 per cent recycled polyester and 45 per cent polyester
Style notes:
- A-line skirt
- Neck sash detail
- Invisible zipper
- Asymmetrical neckline
Lazaro Mini Dress
$189.95 at The Iconic
Short and sweet, we love this strapless mini for an upcoming event. It’s made from a lovely wool blend with a subtle pinstriping to it, which gives off the effect of a cool suit but in a youthful mini dress silhouette – chic!
Sizes: 6 to 18 | Colours: Navy | Materials: 40 per cent wool, 29 per cent polyester, 28 per cent viscose and 3 per cent elastane
Style notes:
- Fitted bodice
- Flare mini skirt
- Designed in Australia
Anouk Maxi Dress
$199 at Mister Zimi
If you’re after something with a boho style and perhaps more coverage then you can’t get any more perfect than this long-sleeved maxi from Mister Zimi. Style it with chunky platform heels and plenty of bangles and jewellery for a boho-chic look for your next party.
Sizes: 6 to 16 | Colours: Barcelona, Deia and Madrid | Materials: 100 per cent LENZING™ ECOVERO™ Textured Viscose
Style notes:
- Bias cut
- Bra friendly design
- Round neckline
- Flared sleeves
Asymmetrical Mini Flower Dress
$139.95 at MNG
Prepare to dance the night away in this adorable mini from MNG that fits your body like a glove and will flit and flounce as you hit the dancefloor. With a one-shouldered long-sleeve design and draping throughout, it’s the perfect combo of elegance and fun.
Sizes: XS to XL | Colours: Black | Materials: 100 per cent viscose
Style notes:
- Flower applique
- Size zip
- Asymmetric hemming
- Short skirt
Naomi Strapless Dress
$139 at Runaway The Label
If you’re looking for some glitz and glamour but still want to keep it understated, this midi dress with subtle diamonte detailing is one to watch. With small yet impactful cutouts on the side and a strapless design you can show off some skin and the figure-hugging design is a head-turner.
Sizes: XXS to XXL | Colours: Black | Materials: 95 per cent polyester and 5 per cent spandex
Style notes:
- High split on leg
- Side seam with invisible zipper
- Ruching on bodice
Dazzle Mini Dress
$179.99 at Sheike
Dazzle you will when you don this metallic mini from Sheike that combines glitz and structure. The playful emphasised shoulders creates a unique and flattering silhouette with the fitted skirt. Silver is the colour of the moment so let it shine by pairing with delicate black accessories.
Sizes: 6 to 18 | Colours: Silver | Materials: 100 per cent polyester
Style notes:
- Ruched neckline
- Elasticated waist
- Keyhole back closure
What is a cocktail dress?
Cocktail dresses are typically worn for semi-formal or formal occasions so they tend to have an elegant and sophisticated style to them. They are typically knee length or slightly shorter and you can find them in an array of colours, materials and styles.
What is a cocktail attire dress code?
Cocktail attire is slightly less formal than black tie but is certainly more formal than casual wear. You’ll find these dress codes at weddings, dinners, galas and the like. Cocktail attire usually calls for a dress as mentioned above or otherwise a stylish suit or jumpsuit makes for an excellent ensemble.
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