20 Best Cocktail Dresses for Every Kind of Reception

Love Reformation but need something a bit more affordable? Step right up to this Amazon bestseller. Each of the available shades offers the same slide slit and cute shoulder bows that make this option look far more expensive than it is.

• Pros: Bodice has a lot of stretch; comfortable; adjustable straps.
• Cons: The longer length isn’t great for short people.
• Sizes: S–XL
• Color(s): 9
• Material: 100% polyester
• Customer review: “Super flattering and comfy! [I] love that the straps are tied and can be adjusted to the right length! The toe straps also add a beautiful hint of femininity to the dress. The slit is right above the knee, and the fit works for this curvy, busty girl.” —reviewer on Amazon

Satin tends to be a bit thicker and more structured than silk, making it a nice alternative for anyone looking for a nighttime dress that won't cling awkwardly to the body. The slim-fitting bodice emphasizes natural curves, while the smocked back ensures comfort.

• Pros: Cool to the touch; available in solid shades and punchy florals.
• Cons: Runs small in the hips.
• Sizes: 0–12 (also available in petite and plus sizes)
• Color(s): Buena, Porcelain, Tea Garden, and Verdigris
• Material: 100% silk
• Customer review: No reviews at the time of publishing.

A straight silhouette might not flatter all body types but does wonders for petite frames. Case in point: this Boden cocktail dress that brings the drama with ’80s-inspired puff sleeves. The cotton-polyester blend provides a flexible fit that still hugs your curves in all the right places.

• Pros: Fitted shape; machine-washable.
• Cons: The sizing was off for some.
• Sizes: 2–20/22
• Color(s): Multi, Moire Bloom
• Material: 72% cotton, 24% polyester, 4% elastane
• Customer review: “I was looking for a floral smart dress for a wedding and was so excited to see this stunning dress; it does not disappoint. Beautiful fabric, such a pretty design, the sleeves are just the right length to slim my arms, and the fit is amazing. I did wonder if I would have to size up as I am hourglass shape, but my usual size fitted perfectly.” —reviewer on Boden

For a glitzy moment, reach for this shimmery cocktail dress from Johnny Was. The slightly longer short sleeves and above-the-knee hemline are paired with an underlayer of mesh tulle that adds volume.

• Pros: Intricate beading.
• Cons: Higher price point.
• Sizes: 0–18
• Color(s): Champagne
• Material: 100% polyester
• Customer review: No reviews at the time of publishing.

This Staud dress will get so much wear thanks to a lightweight stretch poplin material that's great for day and night. The corset-like top provides structure, while the full-length skirt adds volume and movement.

• Pros: Fits larger busts; classic style.
• Cons: Dress runs small.
• Sizes: 00–14
• Color(s): 9 (varies by retailer)
• Material: 98% cotton, 2% elastane
• Customer review: “This dress is everything a girl could want if you're going for a classic, clean, and vintage look. The material is soft and moves beautifully, true to size mostly. If you are busty you may order a size up like I did and have the waist taken in. I am a four but ordered a six, and glad I did because otherwise, it wouldn't have zipped around my top half. All and all, I love it and want one in every color. Don't hesitate, just buy.” —reviewer on Nordstrom

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Who are we to resist a bow? Hutch’s elegant, understated number will all but guarantee you’ll be the best-dressed attendee of any function, be it a fall wedding or celebratory drinks with your besties. The cut looks great on a variety of body types, and since the dress is available in sizes 00 through 26 (plus two different hem lengths), there’s probably an option for you. Just get ready to turn some heads, if the rave reviews are to be believed.

• Pros: Inclusive sizing; petite options; eye-catching design
• Cons: Might run small.
• Sizes: 00–16 in standard and petite, 16–26 in plus
• Color(s): Black, pink
• Material: Cotton, elastane, polyester
• Customer review: ​​“I can say that you need to like attention when wearing this dress! From the vibrant color block to the large bust bow, you better prepare some answers to the waterfall of compliments you get in this dress!” —Honeyclam, reviewer at Anthropologie

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Lean into the dressier side of cocktail dressing with this ombre beauty. Shifting from aqua to pink to coral, the flowy material practically glows in the light—perfect for anyone who refuses to blend into the crowd. Thankfully, the one-shoulder design keeps things from getting too formal; you’ll look put-together, but carefree.

• Pros: Flowy, comfortable material; floor-grazing length
• Cons: Pricey; limited sizing
• Sizes: XS–L
• Color(s): Multicolor
• Material: Polyester
• Customer review: ​​“Flowy, bright pops of color, quality material. I often wear larges, but I went with a medium because it is such a flowy dress, and it was definitely the right decision. I received so many compliments. It was such a fun dress to wear! Pairs well with silver or gold.” —DGoodwin, reviewer at Anthropologie

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This best-selling dress on Amazon is popular for a reason: The off-the-shoulder sleeves show just the right amount of skin without being too revealing, with a high-low hem bringing a party-ready vibe. Factor in the thicker material that's suitable year-round, and it's a no-brainer why nearly 33,000 Amazon shoppers have snapped this off-the-shoulder dress up.

• Pros: The material has a lot of stretch; a budget-friendly price.
• Cons: Runs on the larger side.
• Sizes: XS–XXL
• Color(s): 19
• Material: 60% cotton, 36% polyamide, 4% spandex
• Customer review: ​​“This is such a cute dress. It fits perfectly, and the off-shoulder stays in place. The length difference from front to back isn't quite as dramatic as shown, but just enough to notice and be flattering. The fabric is stretchy and very comfortable, [it] looks like a much more expensive dress.” —reviewer on Amazon

The little black dress has a wide square neckline and a skater hemline that's endlessly versatile. Great year-round, this LBD works alone or paired with a blazer and semi-opaque tights. Either way, it's the one dress you'll wear on repeat.

• Pros: Flattering fit, comfortable stretch material; can be dressed up or down.
• Cons: It’s on the shorter side.
• Sizes: 00–12
• Color(s): Black and orange
• Material: 98% cotton, 2% elastane
• Customer review: No reviews at the time of publishing.

Farm Rio specializes in gowns that blend tropical prints with unexpected silhouettes—and this long-sleeved number is a prime example. Although it covers up a ton of skin, it’s anything but matronly; the skirt is accented with ruffles that only make the bold floral fabric stand out more.

• Pros: Breathable material; covers plenty of skin; machine-washable material
• Cons: Pricey
• Sizes: XS–XL
• Color(s): Multicolor
• Material: Viscose
• Customer review: ​​No reviews at the time of publishing.

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Fun and flirty, this pretty sequined dress is a great formal dress option for a summer wedding. The bodice features a full skirt that hits below the knee and is perfect for dancing the night away in.

• Pros: Fully lined; high-quality sequined embellishments.
• Cons: The straps are not adjustable.
• Sizes: 14–22
• Color(s): Lavender
• Material: 100% polyester
• Customer review: “Gorgeous dress! It has tulle underlining, so it is as poofy in person as the picture. I need to have the straps taken up, but overall it’s beautiful, and I can’t wait to wear it!” —reviewer on Eloquii

There's a good reason the Hill House Nap Dress continuously sells out, and that's because it's actual perfection. The loose-fitting silhouette features an elastic smocking at the bust that looks as good as it feels. Available in a handful of on-trend colors, prints, and fabrics, the lace version in particular has an elegance that'll stand the test of time.

• Pros: Comfortable, midlength; easy fit.
• Cons: Needs a full-length slip.
• Sizes: XXS–2XL
• Color(s): Black lace, navy lace, white lace, botanical lace garden, pink lace. (Powder blue is out of stock.)
• Material: 68% nylon, 32% cotton
• Customer review: “I love all of my lace Ellies. I have white, black and pink. I wear a Skims bodysuit (full bottom) under all of them—and they all look SO good. They are eye-catching and look really polished, but [are] so comfortable and fun to wear. Going for a bodysuit vs. the slip is not for the faint of heart, but it's a cheeky little way to have fun with your day! They fit true to size. I'm a size 8 in clothes and wear a medium in the lace Ellie.” —reviewer on Hill House

What would Carrie Bradshaw wear? Well, the answer is this exact cocktail dress that was seen in the first season of And Just Like That…. Who can blame her? Between the four-way stretch fabric, the built-in bodysuit, and the ruched material, this dress fits like a glove.

• Pros: Four-way stretch fabric, built-in bodysuit.
• Cons: The bodysuit created a panty line for some.
• Sizes: XXS–XL
• Color(s): Blue, black, bronze, green (varies by retailer)
• Material: 95% polyester, 5% spandex
• Customer review: “I ordered this dress in black to wear as a bridesmaid at a wedding. The dress fit perfectly, and I felt it was flattering in all the right places. I paired it with vintage jewelry and heels. Super easy to throw on and go!” —reviewer on Amazon

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Casual yet bold, this Barbiecore-inspired halter dress makes a statement with its draped design. The flowy material provides ample coverage, leaving you feeling confident as ever. Accessorize by pulling your hair back and showing off the gorgeous twisted front detailing. We guarantee you'll be the star of every summer soiree—without breaking the bank.

• Pros: Unique halter design, breezy fit.
• Cons: The silhouette runs large.
• Sizes: XS–XXL
• Color(s): Cerise (bright pink)
• Material: Polyester 98%, spandex 2%
• Customer review: No reviews at the time of publishing.

Go strapless in this sculptural minidress. The airy, architectural ruffles almost make you look like you’re emerging from a (very chic) cloud, while the hidden-seam zip closure provides peace of mind that ensures your dress won’t ride up or slide down as you move. Wear it to your wedding reception or a gala—you’re guaranteed to turn heads no matter where you go. (And pair it with one of the best strapless bras for good measure.)

• Pros: Strapless design; sculptural details
• Cons: Might be too short.
• Sizes: XXS–XL
• Color(s): White
• Material: Cotton, nylon, spandex
• Customer review: No reviews at the time of publishing.

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Transition from day to night with the help of this showstopping cocktail dress. The twisted, ruched fabric hugs your body without feeling tight or constricting, with fluttery short sleeves and a midi-length hem providing you enough coverage in AC-filled spaces.

• Pros: Comfortable; affordable price point.
• Cons: The material was sheer for some.
• Sizes: XS–3XL
• Color(s): 23
• Material: 93% polyester, 7% spandex
• Customer review: “I bought it for an occasion that I last minute couldn’t make it to, but I kept it because it was so cute. I recently wore it, and I seriously got so many compliments on the dress. It was so flattering, I felt so confident! I love it and [I] can’t wait for an occasion to wear it again.” —reviewer on Amazon

Ruffled, smocked, and printed—this long-sleeve maxi is doing the most, in the best way. Wear it to a work event, then pack it in your weekender bag for vacation. It's the perfect dress to style with heels, white sneakers, and walking sandals.

• Pros: Adjustable neckline.
• Cons: May be too hot for warmer months.
• Sizes: 2–12
• Color(s): Light cream, blue, violet, yellow
• Material: 100% recycled polyester
• Customer review: No reviews at the time of publishing.

This stunning piece puts a romantic spin on the traditional shirtdress with a charming eyelet design. Available in navy and white, it includes a removable waist sash and jersey slip lining for strategic reveal.

• Pros: Lightweight fabric, comfortable silhouette.
• Cons: Runs on the small side.
• Sizes: 00–16
• Color(s): White and navy
• Material: 100% rayon
• Customer review: "This dress is gorgeous, one of my all-time favorite Lilly purchases. The fabric is substantial but not weighty, and a true navy. The dress hangs beautifully and is very comfortable. Unfortunately, I had to return because it was too long. I am 5'4 1/2", 120 lbs, evenly proportioned, with a small bust. I ordered the 2. Try it, I hope it works for you!” —reviewer on Lilly Pulitzer