Stunning sequin numbers to feast your eyes upon
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Is it even the holidays if don't treat yourself to a new Christmas party dress? December is the one time of year when we can cast aside cool girl smart/casual dress codes and go all-out in velvet, satin, sequins and OTT colour combos.
The rule for party dressing in 2023? More is more. And here at Cosmo we are all for that mantra. Basically, we realise we spent a lot of autumn and winter in our PJs, so tbh we owe it to ourselves to buy the most extra outfit possible. (If you would rather stick to the former, we're not judging – shop our edit of the best pyjama sets here).
But if you're feeling a little overwhelmed by all the choice out there, we're here to make it easier. We've scoured the internet to handpick all the best bits (30 stunning Christmas party pieces, to be precise) and also compiled a guide to nailing different dress codes this December:
How to dress for a Christmas party:
This one is totally dependent on the occasion. If it's a black tie event, go for a gown or stunning cut-out dress. If it's a work 'do and you're not sure what colleagues are wearing, stick to elegant midis like Karen Millen's and Norma Kamali's that can be easily dressed up or down.
Wild night out? Go for sequins or embellished pieces every time. For intimate dinners, pare things back with a simple slip dress: we particularly like Free People's and Gilda & Pearl's iterations.
When do Christmas party dresses come out?
Right now! It's officially Christmas party shopping season, ppl! And the shops are filled with gorge dresses that are just waiting to be taken out out.
What are the must-have Christmas party dresses for 2023?
In Cosmo's opinion, it's all about '80s vibes in partywear this season. We love Self-Portrait's off-the shoulder number, Anthro's sequin puff sleeve style and Stories' versatile wrap style. We're also obsessed with Warehouse's maxi sequin number, too.
Where to buy a Christmas party dress?
The world is your oyster. If you want something really special, look to Net-A-Porter for bridge brands and designer bits. If this is a little out of your budget, we think Whistles, Ghost Fashion and Anthropologie are killing it atm. For high street price points, look to River Island, and every time.
In our opinion, it's not a Christmas party if somebody isn't in a bright red dress, so why not go all out with this Sister Jane number this festive season? We're in love with all of the brand's pretty babydoll dresses, but this midi feels especially Xmassy thanks to the oversized bows on the straps.
With its ruffled trims and empire silhouette, Joanie's velvet mini dress nods to old school '50s glamour. We think this style will work for any occasion – from Christmas parties to special birthdays and black-tie events.
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Christmas party dresses don't always have to be mini. We love the daring silhouette (hello, plunge neckline, thigh-high slit and open back) on this Free People maxi, and of course, those green and blue sequins – yes, we're still obsessed with all things mermaidcore.
The beauty of this Mango purple mini dress is that you can wear it with tights and an overcoat for Christmas drinks or with denim jackets and Converse at summer festivals. Talk about versatile.
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You can never go wrong with a little black dress – and this Reiss flapper girl style feels perfect for the party season thanks to its playful tassels and mesh panelling.
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Christmas looking a bit more casual this year? Opt for knitted dresses over sequins and mesh. We love how this cream Free People maxi turns to reveal an open back and cute bow detailing.
This silk v-neck dress stays true to Rixo's signature aesthetic with its vintage-inspired silhouette and clashing prints. The stars feel v xmassy but this dress would also work once party season is over, too.
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If you haven't heard of Sarah Ashcroft's brand SLA The Label, then get to know, ladies. The brand has every party piece a girl could ever need (we're talking blazer dresses, sequinned shirt dresses and sparkly two-piece suits). This rhinestone dress is our personal fave – the uber mini hemline and slightly sheer finish feels v noughties, no?
This & Other Stories dress is what late ‘80s dreams are made of. We're just obsessed with the oversized ruffles and on-trend strapless neckline. Wear yours with slicked-back hair and statement earrings for a Christmas bash this year.
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Warehouse's bright pink sequinned dress is giving Barbie does Christmas– and we're obsessed. From the gorge scoop neckline to the adjustable spaghetti straps and flowing maxi hemline, there's A LOT to love about this slinky number.
Dreaming of a white Christmas? DW, you don’t have to always wear red to a festive party. Made from lustrous satin, this long sleeve number from H&M is detailed with pretty faux pearls that look just like lil' snowflakes.
Stories' site is giving us all the Christmas party season vibes right now. We particularly love this fir tree-green sequinned number that has a flattering wrap neckline, beaut balloon sleeves and a subtle cut-out back.
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Live Unlimited Ombre sequin flutter sleeve dress
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Live Unlimited Ombre sequin flutter sleeve dress
More sequins coming at ya – because if you can't wear sparkly dresses at Christmas, when can you? We particularly love the ombre sequin effect on this flattering midi from plus size brand Live Unlimited.
This silver dress from Whistles is giving '60s space-age chic – and we are so here for the disco-ball vibes. The relaxed silhouette and mini hemline have a real retro feel, but the square neckline keeps it feeling super modern.