Delicate and modern. With its cape sleeves and lace trim, you're sure to feel both comfortable and pretty--a great combo for a winning night! Sizes 0-14. Buy from Tuckernuck.

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The gold standard of party dresses. Cape sleeve, back slit, flattering slim fit. It's the dress you're sure to reach for again and again. Sizes 0 to 16. Buy from Tuckernuck. 

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Those maribou feathers are everything—instantly elevating this easy-to-wear jersey dress. Note the subtle drape from the waist and side slit. Sizes 4 to 20. Buy from Alex Evenings.

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All that glitters...is perfect for a special occasion. This dress has so many flattering features, from the portrait neckline to the ruched waist and illusion sleeves. And we love the gunmetal gray. Sizes 14 to 24. Buy from Alex Evenings.

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Not your basic velvet dress. This one surprised us. We tried it on a mother of the bride to be who wears a size 14-16 and it was an instant yes. Stretchy, slimming, comfortable to wear. The v-neck, three quarter length sleeve and draped bodice with tulip hemline all add to the appeal. Perfect for a holiday party or winter wedding. Comes in forest green and royal blue as well. Sizes 6-18. Buy from Alex Evenings.

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Elegant and approachable. The portrait collar is the perfect frame for a gorgeous necklace, or just to show some skin. The taffeta has some stretch in it for comfort and fit, and gives off a shine that makes this a special occasion winner. High low hemline shows a bit of ankle, so consider a colorful heel or a metallic. Size 4 to 18. Buy from Alex Evenings. 

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We're wild about the thick sequined straps on this modified halter style for a look both comfortable and cool. Combined with the velvet skirt, this dress is your pick for a winter wedding or gala. Affordable, too! Sizes 0 to 16. Buy from Bloomingdale's.

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Putting the special in special occasion. Flattering off-the-shoulder neckline (with a bit of arm coverage just where you want it), A-line silhouette in silver sequin and lace overlay. Sizes 16-22. Buy from David's Bridal.

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We love the collar style neckline on this lovely A-line gown, front and back. With its silver print, it gives modern elegant vibes. Sizes 6 to 16. Buy from Alex Evenings.

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The halter neckline feels up to date, and this is the first we've seen this affordable special occasion brand offer a "scuba" material, which is code for stretchy and forgiving. Don't be afraid to size up for a smooth fit! Size 0 to 16. Buy from Bloomingdale's. 

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If embellishment is your nightmare, this draped one shoulder style is the epitome of modern. Fitted through the bodice, the diagonal pleating add a flattering touch in a rich burgundy. Sizes 2 to 14. Buy from Nordstrom. 

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