From Engagements to Holiday Parties, My Closet Needs Some Dressy Options—33 Stylish Dresses I'm Considering
Next month, I'm attending an engagement party with a "fancy" dress code, and I realize I'm still uncertain about what to wear. I’ve known for some time that my wardrobe is missing one essential type: fancy dresses. Ironically, my closet is filled with dresses and skirts, but for the more elegant options, I usually depend on renting through the Pickle app. This has worked well so far, but with an early November celebration and upcoming holiday events, I’d like to expand my personal collection.
If you're in the same boat, I suggest checking out brands like Paloma Wool, Réalisation, Reformation, Rixo, and St. Agni as a starting point. Also, explore the selections at Nordstrom (specifically in the Space section), Net-a-Porter, Revolve, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Ssense. And if options are scarce? A classic black silk dress is always a safe bet.
As I’ve been bookmarking various options during my research, here are my top picks:
**Fait Par Foutch**
Colette Dress
The Fait Par Foutch dress of my dreams.
**Paolina Russo**
Sleeveless Bias Cut Chiffon Maxi Dress
This Paolina Russo dress is amazing.
**Vivienne Westwood**
Burgundy Sunday Midi Dress
This Vivienne Westwood piece has been on my wish list for a long time.
**KHY**
Silk Asymmetric Bias Gown
**SILK LAUNDRY**
Halter Dress Black
A classic silk halter from Silk Laundry.
**EMILY DAWN LONG**
Dammit Janet Sleeveless Dress
I recommend exploring all of Emily Dawn Long's dresses.
**Lamia Lagha**
Salma Dress Red
Styled with red tights and strappy black heels, as shown above.
**AARON ESH**
Black Asymmetric Halter Maxi Dress
This Aaron Esh dress is gorgeous.
**j.crew**
Collection Halter Slip Dress
Navy always feels sophisticated.
**Reformation**
Casette Silk Maxi Dress
I once rented Reformation's Casette Silk Maxi Dress for a wedding and received so many compliments.
**Ramy Brook**
Shauna Satin Strapless Open Back Midi-Dress
**Nia**
Daisy Fit & Flare Midi Dress
Nia is worth exploring.
**Peachy Den**
Amelia One Shoulder Maxi Dress
This dress from Peachy Den is quickly selling out.
**j.crew**
Off-The-Shoulder Mini Dress
An off-the-shoulder nylon mini in Fiery Coral.
**Simone Rocha**
Bow Detail Silk Satin Dress
I'm enamored with the Bow Detail Silk Satin Dress by Simone Rocha.
**NORMA KAMALI**
Open-Back Draped Satin Mini Dress
**Banana Republic**
Crepe Twist-Shoulder Dress
This color is a bit outside my comfort zone, but I’m drawn to this teal.
If you prefer minimalist styles, Rue Sophie might be your favorite.
**DÔEN**
Daphne Lace-Trimmed Pintucked Organic Cotton-Voile Mini Dress
**Acne Studios**
Satin Maxi Dress
The tie details on this ACNE dress add some intrigue.
**& Other Stories**
Sleeveless Satin Midi Dress
If you’re a soft autumn (like me), this dusty rose shade would suit you well.
**SIR The Label**
Rioja Halter Scarf Maxi Dress-Black
SIR creates high-quality garments.
For a flowing silhouette, consider this midi with a square neck and a high empire waist.
**Tularosa**
Allie Midi Dress
I like the design of this piece.
**St. Agni**
Silk Drape Dress
I’m a big fan of St. Agni.
**SIEDRÉS**
Exclusive Riviera Fens Jersey Maxi Dress
Siedrés is a Turkish brand to keep on your radar.
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From Engagements to Holiday Parties, My Closet Needs Some Dressy Options—33 Stylish Dresses I'm Considering
Stylish dresses for special occasions for fall/winter 2025.
