The Dresses

COCKTAIL

  • Ungaro

    Ungaro Embellished Knot One-Shoulder Maxi

    $895

    This the move when you want to feel comfy...but not quite caftan-y. The satin shift silhouette offers room to breathe without feeling totally unstructured. The bejeweled shoulder strap is a fun twist on the one-shoulder look. Sizes XS to XXL. Buy from Saks Fifth Avenue.

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  • Calvin Klein

    Calvin Klein HIgh-Low A-Line Gown

    $299

    The classic sleeveless, A-line silhouette gets a fun and flirty twist with the high-low hemline. Show a little leg, and perhaps a fab bright colored or metallic heel, but still feel tasteful in a style sure to flatter your curves. See it on MOB Shani. Sizes 2 to 16. Buy from Macy's. 

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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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  • 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.

  • 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.

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  • 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.

  • Theia

    Theia Crinkle Strapless A-Line Dress

    $645

    A classic A-line is always the right decision. The allover crinkle material gives the "Ellie" a modern twist, along with the angled neckline. There's rubber in the bodice to help everything stay in place, but keep in mind you mind you might want to have it pulled in tight to really provide support. Sizes 0 to 14. Buy from Saks Fifth Avenue.

    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 Metallic Jacquard Belted Shirt Dress

    $530

    If smart, tailored, and classic are among your preferred descriptors, this metallic jacquard shirt dress is the one for you. The material makes it cocktail-appropriate. The knee length tones it down for a more understated affair. We're partial to this chic black and slate print, but the style also comes in solid navy or champagne. Sizes 2 to 18. Buy from Bergdorf Goodman.

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

  • Theia

    Theia One Shoulder Short Sleeve Gown

    $795

    A perfectly modern way to get the asymmetrical one shoulder look...with sleeves! The lines on this dress—the "Rayna" are gorgeous, from the drape to the wrap. You're sure to feel as cool as you look. Comes in ruby, moss and gray as well. Sizes 0 to 16. Buy from Saks Fifth Avenue. 

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  • Mac Duggal

    Mac Duggal Sleeveless High Neck Beaded Midi Sheath

    $298

     

    When you want to play it cool, and sparkle too. this midi sheath is so modern and sleek—we love the vertical sequins, the back slit, and silver! We can't get enough of metallics for 2024. This versatile dress could work day or night; virtually year round. Get it! Sizes 0 to 24. Buy from Mac Duggal. 

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

  • Diane Von Furstenberg

    Diane Von Furstenberg Geometric Velvet Maxi

    $798

    The sort of relaxed glam that says you have nothing to prove. The small pattern adds dimension and flair without seeming too loud. We love the v-neckline cutout, the sexy slit, and contrasting details at the waists, cuffs, and hem. The "libby" dress in velvet is a win. Sizes 00 to 16. Buy from DVF.

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