The Dresses

COCKTAIL

  • Norma Kamali

    Norma Kamali Strapless Ruched "Diana" Gown

    $285

    Golden Bachelor finalist Leslie Fhima wore this style for her son's wedding. It says: you're confident, modern, and can turn heads without any fuss. The "Diana" is one of Norma Kamali's most popular silhouettes for a reason—it's chic, tasteful, and party-ready. You'll find it one shoulder as well as this strapless style; knee-length and ankle, in a range of colors. The ruching makes the stretchy fabric easier to pull off. We love the asymmetrical hemline. Sizes XS to XL. Buy from ShopBop. 

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  • Norma Kamali

    Norma Kamali One Shoulder Ruched "Diana" Gown

    $215

    You're a modern minimalist, and not afraid to show some curves. The "Diana" is one of Norma Kamali's most popular silhouettes for a reason—it's chic, tasteful, and party-ready. You'll find it strapless (recently worn by "Golden Bachelor" finalist Leslie Fhima for her son's wedding) as well as one shoulder; knee-length and ankle, in a range of colors. The ruching makes the stretchy fabric easier to pull off. We love the balance of the one shoulder and asymmetrical hemline. Sizes XS to XL. Buy from Revolve. 

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  • ML Monique Lhuillier

    ML Monique Lhuillier One Shoulder Metallic Jacquard Midi

    $595

    We're crazy about this navy-pink-gold combo. From the one shoulder ruffle to the luxe material and tasteful midi length, this is a perfect way to wear something special when the wedding isn't super formal. Sizes 0 to 16. Buy from Neiman Marcus. 

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  • Ted Baker London

    Ted Baker London Sleeveless Organza Maxi

    $345

    We're digging the retro glam vibe of this bright pink number. Sixties-style mini with a sheer '70s overlay. Loose without seeming overwhelming, and with that dramatic bow to tie it all together. Sizes 1-6 (which is 4-14). Buy from Nordstrom.

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  • Elliatt

    Elliatt Strapless Ruffle Cocktail Dress

    $170

    Long isn't the only option. We love the versatility of this strapless cocktail dress, from its asymmetrical neckline and hemline to the ruffle at the waist, it's got an architectural sensibility that could fit in at a fancy evening affair, or an afternoon wedding by the sea. (See it on Susan.) Comes in several other colors, including dusty rose, pale blue and black. Sizes XS to XL. Buy from Revolve.

    Mother Of independently curates the dresses we recommend. When users buy through our links, we may earn a commission.

  • Alice + Oliva

    Alice + Olivia Short Sleeve Sequined Maxi Dress

    $895

    We're here for a preppy-glam moment. Love this comfy silhouette, from polo-style top to A-line tiered skirt, done up in sequins. Could be a fun way to dress up for day, or night. Sizes 0 to 14. Buy from Neiman Marcus.
    Mother Of independently curates the dresses we recommend. When users buy through our links, we may earn a commission.

  • Milly

    Milly Asymmetric Strapless Botanical Jacquard Gown

    $795

    How perfect this print would be for a garden wedding. Or a vineyard. Or a beach. Basically, any place where you want to rock a formal silhouette in a cool and unexpected lush print. The asymmetrical strapless neckline is another cool touch. Sizes 0-12. Buy from Neiman Marcus. 

    Mother Of independently curates the dresses we recommend. When users buy through our links, we may earn a commission.

  • Mac Duggal

    Mac Duggal Sequin Flounce Sleeve Tulle Dress

    $578

    The flounce sleeve is like the cool, older sister to the flutter sleeve, and it creates some nice movement on this art deco-inspired sequin cocktail dress. Could blend with virtually any wedding colors, and with the midi length, you could wear this chic sparkler day or night. Sizes 2 to 20. Buy from Nordstrom.

    Mother Of independently curates the dresses we recommend. When users buy through our links, we may earn a commission.

  • Shoshanna

    Shoshanna Flutter-Sleeve Metallic Chiffon Maxi Dress

    $615

    Shoshanna answers all of our insecurities with a design flourish: flutter sleeve, ruching, A-line skirt. The metallic diamond-pattern on lurex chiffon makes it special. Sizes 0 to 14. Buy from Neiman Marcus.

    Mother Of independently curates the dresses we recommend. When users buy through our links, we may earn a commission.

  • Mac Duggal

    Mac Duggal One Shoulder Asymmetrical Hemline

    $398

    One of those instant pick-me-ups—modern and chic with the one shoulder cape sleeve and asymmetrical hemline. We love the subtle wink of glitz with the beading on the sleeve. A good option for petites. See it on mother of the groom Lisa. Sizes 2 to 16. Buy from Mac Duggal. 
    Mother Of independently curates the dresses we recommend. When users buy through our links, we may earn a commission.

  • Betsy & Adam

    Betsy & Adam Floral Halter Chiffon Dress

    $219

    Show some flair without going over the top. Halter style, cascade ruffle, muted pattern. Special enough to wear for a wedding, but so versatile, you're sure to reach for it again and again. Sizes 4-16. Buy from Betsy & Adam.

    Mother Of independently curates the dresses we recommend. When users buy through our links, we may earn a commission.

  • Rickie Freeman for Teri Jon

    Teri Jon Off The Shoulder Metallic Dress

    $550

    A dress that will change your mind about knee length. Trust us: it's even better on than on model. The draped sleeve is adjustable—looks great worn shawl-like, a bit higher on the shoulder, as well as all the way off. The fabric has some stretch and shimmers with gold flecks that sit on top of the pink material. This would be great for a daytime wedding, rehearsal dinner, or cocktail party. Sizes 2 to 18. Buy from Teri Jon.

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    Mother Of independently curates the dresses we recommend. When users buy through our links, we may earn a commission.