There are certain pieces of clothing that we should all just have in our wardrobes, and cocktail dresses are one of them. 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
- Caravan + Co Lightness of Being Bias Slip Dress Magenta, $399, Shop with Women’s Weekly
- Tie Back Sundress, $499, Oroton
- Oxford Charlotte Cupro Dress, $249, The Iconic
The best cocktail dresses 2024
01
Caravan + Co Lightness of Being Bias Slip Dress Magenta
from $399 at Shop with Women’s Weekly
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 silk slip dress from Caravan + Co in a striking magenta hue will have all eyes on you.
Sizes: 8, 10, 12, 14.
Colours: Black, Emerald, Magenta.
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
Duke Midi Dress
from $179.99 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 Duke Midi Dress form Sheike not only has a timeless hue, but a classic, high-neck silhouette too.
Sizes: 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18.
Colours: Black.
Materials: Polyester, Spandex.
Key features:
- Stretch knit textured fabrication
- Fitted styling
- Midi length skirt with back vent
- High neckline
- Sleeveless
- Invisible zip at center 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 day-time 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
Tie Back Sundress
from $499 at Oroton
Best for: a vivid red moment
With a slight drop waist, a fitted bodice and a charming oversized bow on the back, this Tie Back Sundress from Oroton in poppy red is perfect for both night and day cocktail dress occasions. For day occasions, pair the dress with a sleek pair of sandals and for the night, swap sandals for heels to elevate the look.
Sizes: 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16.
Colours: Red.
Material: Cotton.
Key features:
- Fitted bodice
- 100 per cent cotton
- Tie back
- Curved neckline
- Convenient zip opening