In a sea of sameness, this fully lined jersey gown with satin details is a knockout. Modest, yet totally modern with details both subtle and chic. And yes, shoulder pads! Sizes 2 to 14. Buy from Neiman Marcus.

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Bring the drama! Sweeping ruffle, architectural one shoulder neckline jeweled detail at the waist. The monochromatic textured print brings it all together with structure and shine and a mermaid finish. See a similar version on Eileen. Sizes 2 to 16. Buy from Dillard's. 

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A sleek, sophisticated stunner. The neckline is so elegant; the draped satin gives the "Valencia" a modern feel. Dressy enough for a mother of, and equally appropriate for a gala or black tie event. Sizes 00 to 14. Buy from Simkhai.

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Classic, with a glamorous twist—an origami-inspired structurally pleated neckline and bodice with defined waist and trumpet silhouette. Size 0 to 16. Buy from Bergdorf Goodman. 

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Comfortable on top; beautiful on the bottom. A flattering silhouette that's ready to party. Sizes 0 to 16. Buy from Nordstrom.

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Modern and romantic. The straight strapless neckline is such a cool choice this season and we're swooning over this fuchsia floral watercolor print on this sleek column gown. Sizes 0 to 22. Buy from Teri Jon.

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Floral on velvet makes this dress feel like a standout in a season where we can't get enough lush greens. The sleek silhouette adds sophistication, with a welcome big of ruching and flattering V-neck. Sizes 0 to 22. Buy from Teri Jon.

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The strapless fan bodice is definitely having a moment and this is such a ethereal version with its light layers of tulle and waist detail. The emerald green is a fresh choice. Sizes 0 to 16. Buy from Bloomingdale's. 

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The dress for making a statement without a lot of fuss. Flattering drape, ruffle for flourish, ruched in all the right places. Comes in blue, green and olive as well. Sizes 2 to 18. Buy from Bloomingdale's. 

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From the up and coming designer known for her dressy separates, a gorgeous column gown that brings it all together: the exquisitely adorned sleeveless top with embroidered and beaded lace; the silk taffeta column skirt with just enough movement to its sleek silhouette. And all created in the color of the season, a wam brown they call "suntan." Sizes 2 to 16. Buy from Emily Shalant. 

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If you're going to wear black, give it some dimension. We love the shimmer on this column gown and the dramatic bow on the asymmetrical neckline, which feels like an updated twist on one shoulder. Sizes 2 to 16. Buy from Macy's.

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Show off those shoulders with this gorgeous ruffled neckline. We love an unfussy flourish. And it's got a bit of stretch. Sizes 0 to 16. Buy from Bloomingdale's.

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