20 Of The Best Cocktail Dresses For Every Occasion In Summer 2025

Sometimes, it's the simplest things that pack the most punch. This dress if proof of that; it has distinct '90s vibes and will look elegant and unfussy for any party you're going to. It's the perfect thing to wear if you're worried about being over or under-dressed, as it will hit the perfect note. Add an oversized blazer and it works for day, too.

You can't go wrong with a classic black dress, particularly if you're unsure about the dress code. Just add a low heel and your favourite earrings to this lace design by Club L, and you're ready to go.

This is ideal for weddings because it can easily be dressed up or down – wear flats and keep it more casual if the wedding is more relaxed or glam things up for more formal dress codes. Either way, this is a beautiful dress which you'll come to rely on for event-dressing.

Pictures don't do this dress justice, as it's made from such a beautiful crisp poplin fabric that makes it look super-fresh in real life. The fitted bodice, intricate broderie detailing and A-line silhouette mean it couldn't be more flattering to wear – simply throw on and style with simple accessories.

Karen Milen has a lot of dresses are available up to a size 24, making it one of the few high street brand that actually caters to most people. This dress is one of the loveliest – from the length to the design, it'll be the sort of thing you want to wear for any and every dressed-up occasion.

Nobody's Child is adept at creating glorious, stand-out dresses which look far more expensive than they actually are. This red dress is no exception and offers many styling options – wear with black ballet flats to make it feel less dressy or go all-out with clashing pink heels and statement jewels.

Rare London has seriously impressive pieces you'll want to wear every season but this satin floaty dress is certainly a highlight. Its structured silhouette and vivid colour make it a statement piece that you could wear with flats or heels.

Whether you're on the hunt for a second wedding dress or just want demure vibes for the next party you're going to, this white cocktail dress from Reformation is a dream. The elegant neckline and long sleeves balance out the shorter hemline – it looks great styled with sheer black tights and platform pumps.

Consider this an upgrade on your old LBD. The velvet and lace details lend this dress a dark romantic vibe – try with chunky gold jewellery to give your look a modern contrast.

For autumn/winter, velvet is always a classic choice. This bow-detail dress has sweet puff sleeves and embellished bows – it would be perfect for a winter wedding or simply as something special to wear at Christmas. Keep accessories minimal and let the dress do the talking.

Rotate has built the foundation of its business on giving good cocktail dress, so you know you're in good hands with the Danish brand. This dress manages to be both playful and chic simultaneously – try with accessories in various other shades of green for a fun contrast.

Rixo is renowned for its dresses and there are so many marvellous midis on offer that it's difficult to choose just one. This spotty style has universal appeal, however, and is available in an inclusive range of sizes (UK6-26). There are even two different fits, regular and petite, to ensure you find your perfect midi length.

When this dress launched last year, it repeatedly sold out – but now, it's back in stock. Available in white or black, it's a classic party piece that will look great with tights and pointed flats.

With its off-shoulder neckline and blown-up black and white polka dots, this dress taps into autumn/winter's penchant for '80s influences. Seen on catwalks from Coperni to Balmain, the taste for high-octane 1980's glamour is back – and this dress is an affordable way to look the part.

Forget what you thought you knew about sequin dresses, as this mini from Needle & Thread is far superior. The caped silhouette is super flattering and 100% of the sequins used for this design are made from upcycled materials using self-generated plastic waste. This is a true show-stopper for any kind of party this season.

Speak to any petite woman and she'll tell you how difficult it can be to find midi dresses (or longer styles) that don't need to be taken up. Luckily, Karen Millen has a selection of petite styles (designed for those who are 5"3 and under) to make life easier. This tassel dress will be fab with strappy heels – throw an oversized blazer over the top if you need an extra layer.

For stand-out cocktail dresses always guaranteed to make an impact, Rebecca Vallance is a no-brainer. Her unapologetically glamorous styles have amassed a celebrity fanbase and the new-season styles are just as great as her previous collections. This simple bandeau dress is given drama in the form of an oversized bow at the back – it'll ensure you're the best-dressed guest at an event.

If you want a twist on classic florals, this dress is perfect. The silhouette is giving '90s vibes – layer a boxy jacket over the top and add heeled mules to complete the look.

Ghost is practically synonymous with satin dresses at this point and this particular shape is one of the best from the brand. It has a low, cut-out back and is cut on the bias – you can afford to keep the rest of your look minimal and just let this dress be the main event.

If you'd like a longer cocktail dress but don't want to stray into black-tie territory, this slip from Farm Rio is a stylish compromise. Throw a jacket over the top to keep it more relaxed and wear with everything from trainers (for much more dressed-down events) to your favourite heels.