If You’re Looking For a Show Stopping Summer Party Dress—Here Are 27

May 15, 2021 at 06:00AM

It would be an understatement to say that party dresses have been languishing in the back of our wardrobes for a considerable amount of time. Sure, we might have pulled them out for the odd birthday Zoom party or Christmas day when we wanted to be extra fancy but most of the time, even when we’ve been outside, we’ve stuck to jeans, a tee and maybe a blazer. Party dresses on the other hand have continued to be ignored. Well, no longer, we say! It’s time to embrace joyful dressing. Whether or not you have any actual parties coming up, there are plenty of pub-, restaurant-, and picnic-ready frocks that are exactly what you need to lift your mood and break out of any style rut you might be experiencing.

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I’ve gone through quite literally hundreds of dresses that are available right now and found 27 of the best that we’d describe as show-stopping. I should point out that I’ve avoided too much sparkle or sequins as I think for summer most of us are after bold colours and frocks that are comfortable to walk around in if the weather is a little warmer. There’s nothing chic about sweating in a party dress. 

With this in mind, I’ve found a range of dresses from minis to maxis that will work for any occasion. If you are managing to get to a wedding, any of the below will work. But if you’re just after something to wow friends for drinks, then we’ve also got that covered. Keep scrolling for more. 

This might be a simple-looking dress but thanks to the stunning colour and the delicate ruching, it’s one to snap up. 

Ghost never fails to create garden party dresses.

One of the hottest colours of the year so far. 

Pair with gold jewellery for added oomph. 

How great is this colour?

Want to go a bit out-there? Ganni has your back. 

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This is exactly what we want to wear for all upcoming parties.

One to wear with strappy heels. 

16Arlington’s take on party wear always feels fun. 

Sassy. 

Super pretty vibes from Self-Portrait.

A more beachy style from Faithfull the Brand but great for warmer summer evenings. 

Another simple dress but will look knock-out with chunky accessories. 

Minis are making a comeback. 

If you’ve got budget to spend, then don’t overlook K-Kid favourite Alessandra Rich.

This dress was made for partying. 

A classic wedding guest dress if we ever saw one. 

Knee-high boots would work wonders with this dress. 

How pretty is this? 

Go slinky with Zara. 

Another vibrant colour we can’t get enough of. 

Square-necks always look so elegant. 

Another great option for wedding guests. 

Shirt dresses aren’t usually party dresses but this one is. It’s all in the slit. 

If in doubt go for black. 

So stunning.

This brand is getting a lot of attention right now, and for good reason. 

Next up, the biggest spring/summer 2021 fashion trends to know. 

Author Elinor Block | Whowhatwear
Selected by CWC