When you just can't wear black again, this is your festive winter alternative. The simple style makes it versatile. The feather cuffs are a party ready to happen. Sizes XXS to XXXL. Buy from Tuckernuck.

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

Shirt dress meets wrap dress and the result is understated sexy cool. It's all in the details: high sheen satin, bishop sleeves, gentle draping. It's going to look good whether it hits ankle or higher. Sizes 0 to 14. Buy from Simkhai. 

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

The perfect dress for holiday parties—and beyond. High neck, ruched waistband and drop waist. Made from 100% recycled polyester, the "Menon" has great flow with full skirt. Size 00 to 16. Buy from Diane Von Furstenberg. 

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

Asymmetric neck, off the shoulder, blouson bodice. This wool blend dress is flexible enough to make you feel party-ready no matter how you're feeling. We love the side slit, midi length, and the long, stretchy sleeves make it feel like a cozy sweater. Wear it to your work holiday party, and again to a fall/winter wedding! Comes in black as well as oxblood. Sizes XS to XL. Buy from Bloomingdale's.

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

And LBD likely to get selected over all the other LBDs in your closet for its simple elegance, from elbow length sleeves to the midi length and center back slit. It's lined, but know that the material is a thin jersey, which actually means you could wear to more casual events without feeling overdone. Reviewers and retailers do say it runs small. Sizes XXS to XL. Buy from Neiman Marcus.

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

Proof positive that you can dress ladylike and look infinitely cool. The "Tabitha D" is something extra special, from its scalloped neckline with silver embroidered details to its fitted waist, puff sleeves, and all-over shine. You're sure to reach for it again and again. Sizes 0 to 12. Buy from Tuckernuck.

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

Pleats party! A dress sure to make you feel great and look perfectly chic for special occasions. Great stretch, sexy slit, all-over pleating for a sleek fit. Sizes XS to XL. Buy from Nordstrom.

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

Your holiday party dilemmas are officially solved with the timeless blackwatch plaid version of one of our favorite dress silhouettes, Tuckernuck's "Chloe." Ladylike, but not uptight. The spread collar and short wing sleeves are fun and flattering; the material has just the right amount of structure to it to give you some definition without discomfort. Try it with a red ballet flat by day, and switch to a strappy gold heel for night! Sizes XXS to XL. Buy from Tuckernuck.

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

This little number is giving us Audrey Hepburn vibes. A utilitarian dress that still hits all the pretty notes in an A-line silhouette with that deep V, you could wear it for a ceremony at the courthouse, a backyard brunch, and then throw a cardigan over it and take it to the office or out to dinner. Comes in several colors. Sizes XS to XXL. Buy from Bloomingdale's. 

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

A solid candidate for a beach wedding weekend. Easy, chic styling; a fun print that isn't too distracting. The thing to know is there's no structure in the bodice, so you're going to need a good strapless bra, or a seamstress to help you build in some cups. At this price, that might be worth exploring! Sizes XS to XL. Buy from Nordstrom.

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

 

If you can pull off a backless halter style, the "Darmi maxi" is a fun option for a destination wedding (or rehearsal dinner!). See it on real mom Melissa. 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.

A total classic-meets-chic move. Shirt dress styling, done in a sheer organza overlay which amps up the drama and sophistication for a special occasion. We love the chest pockets over the visible spaghetti straps—cool and unexpected. Sizes 00 to 10. Buy from Saks Fifth Avenue.

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