Whether you’ve got a wedding to attend in the coming months or have another formal occasion in the books, when something calls for “cocktail attire,” finding the right summer cocktail dress can be a task you’d rather save for someone else.
However, once you’ve learned the official dos and don’ts of the vague dress code, finding an appropriate dress is simple. After all, we know you’d rather be spending that time sipping margaritas and mojitos rather than searching for what you’re going to wear.
The main rules of cocktail dressing are to keep your dress between the mini and midi length and avoid anything that’s too revealing. Combine these two, and you’ll have a stunning look that’ll turn heads while also keeping you within the dress code.
Ready to start shopping for your next summer soirée? We rounded up our favorite cocktail dresses so you don’t have to. Check them out now.
A.L.C.
Cassidy Dress
Sweet and simple.Available in sizes 0 to 12.
AlexaChung
Bow-Embellished Halter Dress
We're obsessed with this neckline.Available in UK sizes 6 to 14.
Brock Collection
Dailey Floral-Print Cotton Midi Dress
Leave it to Brock Collection to create the dreamiest cocktail dress.Available in sizes 0 to 8.
Christopher Esber
Axis Singlet Dress
This dress will never go out of style.Available in sizes 0 to 10.
Cushnie et Ochs
Color-Block Gathered Silk-Tulle Dress
This sherbet colored dress has us dreaming of summer weddings.Available in sizes 0 to 10.
Everlane
Japanese GoWeave Long Slip Dress
A petal-pink dress will be perfect for all your summer occasions.Available in sizes 00 to 12.
Jason Wu
Sleeveless V-Neck Popover Cocktail Dress
You'll get so much wear out of this dress.Available in sizes 0 to 10.
Jonathan Simkhai
Handkerchief Bustier Midi Dress
We can't get over this dress.Available in sizes 0 to 12.
Marchesa Notte
Off the Shoulder Lace Ruffle Cocktail Dress
You can't go wrong with a gorgeous black dress like this.Available in sizes 0 to 12.
Nanushka
Soraya Satin Midi Dress
Nanushka is the cool-girl brand you need to know now.Available in sizes XS to L.
Prabal Gurung
Floral Ruffle Dress
These ruffles, though.Available in sizes 10 to 20.
Réalisation
The Violette
Wear this dress to a cocktail party or to a weekend brunch.Available in sizes XXS to XL.
Re:named
Polka Dot Slip Dress
You'll be wearing this affordable option every chance you get.Available in sizes S to L.
Self-Portrait
Contrast-Panel Pleated Dress
We'll take cotton candy colors any day.Available in UK sizes 4 to 14.
Silver Bloom
Ruffle One Shoulder Dress
This dress only looks expensive.Available in sizes 2 to 12.
Reformation
Sally Dress
A minidress makes for a great and versatile cocktail party option.Available in sizes XS to 3X.
Tibi
Silk Slip Dress
Nothing like a gorgeous slip dress that'll keep your look timeless.Available in sizes 00 to 12.
Tome
Pleated One Shoulder Kaftan Dress
This color combination is gorgeous.Available in sizes XL to XXXL.
Ulla Johnson
Pleated Ruffled Dress
Ulla Johnson makes some of the most romantic pieces.Available in sizes 0 to 10.
Who What Wear
Striped One Shoulder Ruffle Mini Dress
Turn heads in this one.Available in sizes XS to 4X.
Zara
Long Ribbed Dress
Dress this up with some bold accessories.Available in sizes XS to XXL.
In these dresses, we guarantee you'll enjoy those warm summer evenings and feel ultra chic doing it, too.