It's my favourite time of year because it's our moment to go all out with our outfits. To me, the holidays equate to sparkles [1], embellishments, and bold colours. If you're headed to a party or celebration in the next couple of months, you are in the right place. I have curated an ultimate shopping guide of all the best, most festive cocktail dresses [2] that should be on your radar.
All these designs were released in the past week, so they're fresh and brand-new. I have a feeling they will sell out in November, so invest in a fabulous frock now so you're ready for all the fun times ahead. These are the dresses [3] your friends will be envious of, trust me. Let's shop!
Classic Red: Zara Pleated Midi Dress
For a splash of red, this Zara Pleated Midi Dress [5] (£50) is so versatile. You can easily style this many different ways.
Pockets Included: Hutch Colorblocked Bow-Tie Maxi Dress
How cute is this Hutch Colourblocked Bow-Tie Maxi Dress [6] (£170)? And yes, it does have pockets!
Shimmer and Shine: Asos Edition Feather & Sequin Dress
The Asos Edition Feather & Sequin Dress [7] (£120) is the definition of the perfect party piece. The shimmery details make it stand out in a crowd.
Festive Fluff: Nasty Gal Feather Hem Double Breasted Blazer Dress
This fun Nasty Gal Bridal Feather Cuff Blazer Mini Dress [8] (£71, originally £119) would look great with strappy heels and lots of gold jewellery. It's definitely worthy of an Instagram snap.
Luxurious Velvet: Free People Gum Drop Mini Dress
This Free People Gum Drop Mini Dress [9] (£158) is comfy enough to wear all day on Thanksgiving. We have heart eyes for the rich colour.
Pop of Pink: Eloquii Surplice Bodice Pleated Dress
Pink can be festive too! This Eloquii Surplice Bodice Pleated Dress [10] (£96) would look pretty with silver heels.
A Gorgeous LBD: Norma Kamali Midi Dress
This Norma Kamali Midi Dress [11] (£195) is so much more than a LBD — the fabric is amazing.
A Bestseller: Free People Shayla Velvet Mini Dress
Customers rave about the flattering cut of this Free People Shayla Velvet Mini Dress [12] (£118). You can easily wear it with sneakers or heels.
Totally Timeless: ELLIATT Nerida Dress
The sparkly tulle on this ELLIATT Nerida Dress [13] (£170) is lovely. Style it with simple black heels.
Something Comfy: Anthropologie Somerset Velvet Maxi Dress
Not only is this Anthropologie Somerset Velvet Maxi Dress [14] (£148) stylish, it's also very comfortable. It comes in three different colours.
Victorian Romance: Batsheva Ella Dress
This Batsheva Ella Dress [15] (£350) has cute details like little buttons and ruffled hems. So dreamy!
A Holiday Classic: Kate Spade New York Silk Twill Matinee Dress
This Kate Spade New York Silk Twill Matinee Dress [16] (£335) is a great investment because you'll wear it for years to come. The tie will perfectly accentuate your waist.
An Unexpected Colour: & Other Stories Sequin Wrap Mini Dress
The purple shade of this & Other Stories Sequin Wrap Mini Dress [17] (£135) is so fun and equally as festive. You'll stand out!
Go Strapless: Selkie Seamed Tulle Mini Dress
For something with volume, opt for this Selkie Seamed Tulle Mini Dress [18] (£189). The moulded bust provides great support.
A Pretty Print: Hope For Flowers by Tracy Reese Off-the-Shoulder Midi Dress
The print on this Hope For Flowers by Tracy Reese Off-the-Shoulder Midi Dress [19] (£420) looks like artwork. It comes in a few different colours.
Go For Gold: Sister Jane Spectrum Dress
This Sister Jane Spectrum Dress [20] (£185) has been getting tons of attention online for its flattering cut. Get it while you still can!
Unexpected Teal: Hutch Floral Jacquard Cut-Out Mini Dress
If you're sick of classic red and green, slip into this Hutch Floral Jacquard Cut-Out Mini Dress [21] (£160). I like how it's styled in the photo with a black turtleneck.
Pretty in Pink: Free People Selena Sequin Shirtdress
Not only is this Free People Selena Sequin Shirtdress [22] (£328) fabulous, the loose fit also makes it easy to move in.
A Customer Favourite: Ted Baker Knitted Frill Full Skirt Dress
This Ted Baker Knitted Frill Full Skirt Dress [23] (£195) has been a years-long bestseller for a reason — the fit is excellent and the jewel tone colours are perfect for the months ahead. This is another great option with pockets.
Something Sexy: Nicholas Simone Dress
This incredible Nicholas Simone Dress [24] (£370) comes complete with a leg slit and belt. Keep the heels strappy!
Sleek and Chic: Zara Faux Leather Wrap Dress
If you're a LBD person, this Zara Faux Leather Wrap Dress [25] (£30) will be your new staple. The leather finish is extra cool.
Ruby Jewel Tone: Kitri Studio Mara Red Velvet Dress
If you have an office party, this Kitri Studio Mara Red Velvet Dress [26] (£165) is the perfect pick. The rich colour is compliment-worthy.
Date-Night Outfit: Zara Floral Print Dress
This cute little Zara Floral Print Dress [27] (£30) has flattering ruching in all the right places. Wear it with black boots.
Beautifully Embellished: Alice + Olivia Laurena Empire Party Dress
The pearl accents on this Alice + Olivia Laurena Empire Party Dress [28] (£439) are gorgeous. This design is so special.
Something (Navy) Blue: & Other Stories Velvet Wrap Midi Dress
The great thing about this &; Other Stories Velvet Wrap Midi Dress [29] (£85) is that you can wear it in the wintertime as well.