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Winter cocktail dresses are unlike any other in that they’re either infinitely more festive, designed to offer more warmth, or, often, both. But the most significant difference this season is assuredly the fact that you’re shopping for them at all for the holiday party circuit and beyond. Think celebratory dinners, winter weddings, and birthdays. And, of course, at-home parties can just as easily warrant a fun design, whether you are taking on the role of host (which undoubtedly requires a remarkable look!) or attending a soiree with a cocktail dress code.
Indeed, festive fashion is back in full swing, thus making an assortment of winter cocktail dresses essential for standout style. We’re talking about everything from sequined, metallic, and embellished designs for high-octane glamour to pretty prints, lace, and satin for elegant moments. Plus understated styles with just a wink of cheer, like long-sleeve dresses with a hint of shimmer, sumptuous velvet, and versatile black silhouettes magnificently detailed so as not to snooze. Whatever your taste for festive desires this season, keep scrolling for Vogue’s edit of the best winter cocktail dresses for women—’tis the season.
The Long-Sleeve Dress
Combat the winter chill while looking fabulous in a long-sleeve cocktail dress—be it a ruched mini, colorfully cutout midi, or minimal satin number with a detachable cape.
The Metallic Dress
While gold and silver dresses equate to megawatt style, don’t be afraid to go beyond them when taking the metallic route—think shimmering aqua, green, burgundy, and beyond.
The Printed Dress
A far cry from springy blooms and plucky summer stripes, winter prints are utterly fresh on the cocktail scene, from florals rendered in velvet and metallic-flecked fabrics to tartan checks and deep paisley.
The Satin Dress
Whether you’re a minimalist or revel in the liquid-y feel of silk, a satin cocktail dress never fails. Choose a long-sleeve style or elongated hem for cold weather, or layer up with a blazer or embellished cardigan over a slip silhouette with tights underneath.
The Velvet Dress
What fabric feels quintessential winter more than velvet? Bursting with elegance, it’s warm, to boot, whether you swathe yourself in a puff-sleeve midi, bow tie mini, or cozy-chic ribbed-knit-and-velvet hybrid.
The Sequined Dress
The holidays unquestionably call for sequins—go timeless in a minimal gold or black slip or a silvery high-neck mini. But when breaking the paillette mold, embrace vibrant hues like deep purple, red, and garnet.
The Lace Dress
Synonymous with sophistication, a lace cocktail dress is equal parts festive and feminine. For an au courant look, seek out modern touches, like a fitted bodice with sweet bow-tie straps, a drop or peplum waist, or perhaps a vibrant kelly green hue.
The Black Dress
Black is never to be discounted when it comes to winter cocktail dresses. Feather trim and rhinestone detailing amount to the ultimate in merry. Look to restrained silhouettes in luxe fabrics for a more understated approach, like a draped satin midi, leather wrap, or structured wool mini.
The Minidress
If you’re all about a mini, stock up for the season with options ranging from voluminous taffeta and shimmering lamé to asymmetrically ruched jersey and ruffled satin.
The Midi-Dress
Midi hemlines are always refined—to keep things festive, embrace voluminous full skirts, shimmering fabrics, and strikingly vibrant hues.
The Bow Dress
Like a stylish gift, why not wrap yourself up in a bow on the winter cocktail circuit? The beloved detail ranges from dramatic to sweet, whether you take the route of a train, bow ties, or glittering embellishment.
The Embellished Dress
Up the ante on your LBD this season with a cheerful party dress adorned with pearls, rhinestones, beads, or sequins.
