Best Christmas party dresses 2021: Flattering styles in sequins, satin and vibrant prints
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It's the most wonderful time of the year – for dress shopping, that is.
In the run up to Christmas party season the shops are filled with more sequins, sparkle and velvet than Mariah Carey's wardrobe, and we couldn't be happier.
It's impossible to be overdressed at a Christmas party or New Year's do, so now's the time to indulge your most extravagant impulses and dress like the star that you really are.
We've rounded up 12 of the most flattering, show-stopping party dresses in the shops this season. From sumptuous satins and shimmering sequins, to bold prints that are sure to get you compliments, scroll down to find your dream dress.
Sequin V-Neck Angel Sleeve Midi Dress | £69 at Marks and Spencer
The moment we discovered this dress it was love at first sight. Available in sizes 6 to 24, the flattering skater silhouette and floaty angel sleeves are designed to skim over your figure, while the soft gold sequins will shimmer as you dance.
Lynette animal sequin dress in recycled polyester black | £120 at Monsoon
The rich copper tones of this long-sleeved mini reminds us of falling autumn leaves. This dress features a sophisticated take on animal print on top of a layer of mesh, and is available in sizes 8 to 24. Part of Monsoon's sustainable S.E.W. collection, it is made from recycled polyester.
M&S X Ghost Satin Puff Sleeve Empire Line Midi Dress | £79 at Marks and Spencer
Ghost sure know how to make a romantic party dress and this green satin number is every bit as elegant and sophisticated as we've come to expect from the brand. With a flattering empire line silhouette a flowing midi skirt and gathers at the shoulders, which give the long sleeves a gentle puff. It is available in sizes 6 to 20.
Phase Eight Sofianne Layered Embellished Mini Dress | £130 at John Lewis & Partners
Light up the dance floor as you pull out the cha cha moves you've learned from Strictly in this mini embellished with flapper-style layers of silver sequins and tassels. Available in sizes 8 to 18.
One Sleeve Midi Dress | £95 at & Other Stories
The bold blue print on this asymmetrical midi will ensure you stand out amid a crowd of reds and greens. With draped detailing across the bodice and a front slit on the calf length skirt, this statement number is available in sizes 32 to 44.
Mauve Lace Slip Dress | £120 at Anthropologie
Toughen up this satiny slip dress with a pair of boots and a chunky cardi for an on-trend look. Shaped to a figure-skimming bias cut with thin straps that crisscross over your back, it is available in sizes 6 to 16 and also comes in brown.
Back Detail Maxi Dress - Black, Daisy Paisley | £130 at Boden
The cut out detail on the back of this dress is just about low enough to still allow you to wear a bra, making it pretty and practical – a combo we don't come across often enough. The full skirted design comes in sizes 6 to 22 and is cut from soft cotton with a sateen finish which means it falls in elegant drapes.
HotSquash Sequin Embellished Mini Dress, Dark Blue | £134 at John Lewis
There's a hidden detail on this knee-length dress which makes it a wise choice for well-ventilated parties this season. Below the navy sequins is a thermal lining, so there won't be any shivering while waiting for your cab. Available in sizes 8 to 22.
Clip-Dot Midi Dress | £148 at Anthropologie
Trimmed with ruffles at the top of the V-neckline, at the cuffs and around the hem, this silver and bronze embellished dress works just as well with boots as it does heels. Available in sizes 6 to 16, we love the loose sheer sleeves.
Yumi Animal Print Velvet Midi Dress, Green/Multi | £70 at John Lewis
Velvet usually comes in block colours, so this animal-print shift offers something a little different. Available in sizes 8 to 16, the soft ruffled sleeves and hem make for an ultra flattering cut.
Nyla Velvet Dress | £160 from Reformation
Sultry and sophisticated, this emerald velvet dress is form-fitting throughout the bodice and skirt. It features a high, front slit and has an adjustable halter neck so you can fit it to your liking, in sizes XS to XL.
Kim spot midi dress green | £80 from Monsoon
With frill detailing and fun spotty print, this shimmering green dress in sizes 8 to 22, will have you feeling festive the moment you slip it on. But don't just take our word for it, one happy shopper wrote in a review: "Lovely flattering style. Hip skimming. Changes as you move and in different light. I'm wearing it on Xmas day and can't wait."
