There are certain pieces of clothing that we should all just have in our wardrobes, and cocktail dresses are one of them.
It’s the silly season, which means office parties and get-togethers with friends and family over the holidays. And you don’t want to be stressed about what to wear.
Whether you’re going to a wedding, a party or any other special event, everyone needs a great dress on call for the occasion. If you don’t have anything inspiring in your wardrobe, don’t fret, we’ve found some of the best, most flattering cocktail dresses to shop for your next function.
Keep reading for our picks.
2024’s top cocktail dresses
- Daria Maxi Dress, $279.99, Sheike
- Fan Flower Print Sundress, $399, Oroton
- Oxford Charlotte Cupro Dress, $249, The Iconic
The best cocktail dresses 2024

01
Raphera Square Neck Midi Dress in Red
from $189.95 at Myer
Best for: an effortlessly chic eye-catching fashion moment
A cocktail dress code is the perfect opportunity to show off a bit of colour with an eye-catching dress. This effortlessly chic dress from Pilgrim in a striking red hue will have all eyes on you.
Sizes: 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18.
Colours: Red, Green, Black, Navy.
Materials: Silk, elastane.
Key features:
- Adjustable shoulder straps
- Bias cut for a flattering fit
- Mid length
- Pop over style
- Available in multiple colours

02
Oxford Charlotte Cupro Dress
from $249 at The Iconic
Best for: a cinched cocktail dress
This periwinkle Charlotte Cupro Dress from Oxford has a Victoria Beckham-esque silhouette and design at a fraction of the price. It has a chic, understated elegance and the cinching around the waist is universally flattering.
Sizes: 6, 8, 10, 12, 14.
Colours: Blue.
Materials: 60 per cent Cupro, 40 per cent Viscose
Key features:
- Slim fit
- Gathered front
- Round neckline
- Short sleeves
- Back split
- Invisible back zip
- Cupro blend

03
Daria Maxi Dress
from $279.99 at Sheike
Best for: a timeless black cocktail dress
Looking for a cocktail dress that you can wear no matter what year, season or trends? As we know, black is effortlessly timeless, making it the perfect colour choice for a cocktail dress. This Daria Maxi Dress from Sheike not only has a timeless silhouette, it also features removable gold flower hardware for an extra touch of glam.
Sizes: 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18.
Colours: Black.
Materials: 95 per cent Polyester, 5 per cent Elastane
Key features:
- Woven stretch fabrication
- Fitted styling
- Tuck detail at bodice and skirt side seam
- Slight scoop front neckline
- Adjustable straps with removable flower hardware
- Invisible zip at centre back

04
Minima Esenciales Paityn Linen Maxi Dress
from $260 at The Iconic
Best for: a versatile cocktail dress
For those times you need a cocktail dress that doesn’t double as an evening gown, this will be your go-to. Made from 100 per cent linen and cotton, this Minima Esenciales Paityn Linen Maxi Dress will be breathable in the warmer months and light enough for daytime events.
Sizes: 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16.
Colours: Brown.
Materials: Linen outer, Cotton lining.
Key features:
- Pure linen fabrication
- Round neckline
- Short sleeves
- Back button closure
- Maxi length

05
Fan Flower Print Sundress
from $399 at Oroton
Best for: a vivid patterned moment
We love an eye-catching print at The Weekly. This elevated sun dress is ideal for the warmer months, and can easily transition from day to night. For day occasions, pair the dress with a sleek pair of sandals and for the night, swap sandals for heels to add some glamour to your look.
Sizes: 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16.
Colours: Ivy.
Material: Cotton.
Key features:
- 100 per cent cotton
- Pockets!
- Elasticated back for comfort
- Closed-end zip
- Lace trim detail and bow detail on the bodice