‘I just got engaged!', you've happily announced to the group chat and proclaimed with a curated Instagram post. But as the current state of my social calendar proves, for many brides-to-be, a bigger engagement celebration is usually on the cards - It is, after all, a once-in-a-lifetime event, worthy of going all out for. As the first in your line-up of wedding events, the engagement party marks the debut of your bridal style, and as such deserves as much sartorial forethought as your big day.
But where to begin? Well, as the designated fashion expert amongst my all-soon-to-be betrothed friends, I'd recommend starting with a browse through Selfridges. I spend endless hours trawling the internet for the best clothing to buy every day, so I can attest to the fact that no matter your style, the luxury retailer has the perfect dress that’ll help you looking your best in the inevitable bridal spotlight.
While shopping for your wedding dress can feel pretty overwhelming, the hunt for the perfect engagement party dress comes with far lower stakes. You still want to impress, of course, but you can experiment with more laid-back and trendy styles that don’t feel quite formal enough for the ceremony and are slightly more fun. From slinky slip dresses and flirty minis to romantic ruffled maxis, there are a plethora of bridal-inspired frocks to choose from, and Selfridges’ vast inventory has it all.
On the hunt for a playful mini you can twirl around in? Self-Portrait's Bow-Front Tulle Lace Mini Dress captures your bridal joy with its floral lace, dainty bow and sparkly crystal trim, while the short length is fun enough to pair well with ballet flats and trainers, too. If your engagement party is a more formal affair, House of CB is your best bet with its elegant and romantic designs. Case in point, the Lolita square-neck midi dress that’ll look striking with a pair of kitten heels, pearl earrings and a bridal headband. Of course, if I was planning my own celebration, I’d likely opt for a sparkly sequin number such as 16 Arlington’s Electra sequin gown. Perfect for shining bright on its own save for a pair of statement earrings.
Whether you’re a minimalist bride or planning a fairytale affair, to save you the task of spending your entire evening scrolling through the Selfridges website, I’ve done the hard work for you and truffled out some fantastic gems in the process. No matter if you opt for a simple midi or choose a more dramatic silhouette, the best engagement dresses will not only help you stand out but are versatile enough to be easily worn again on future date nights and anniversary dinners.
Scroll ahead for my top picks for the best engagement party dresses at Selfridges.
Shop: The Best Engagement Party Dresses At Selfridges
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Flattering and sophisticated with a touch of vintage, House of CB’s Lolita midi is cut with a flared skirt that flows elegantly away from the fitted waist. The midi length is perfect for showing off your heels, while the simple design will fit right in at formal dinners and cocktail parties for years to come.
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The slim-fit and long ruffled sleeves of this mini dress exude a polished sophistication, while the all-over fringing and sequins give it a sparkly and fun edge that’s perfect for a dressier engagement party. Let the dress shine on its own and accessorise with minimal jewellery apart from earrings and, of course, your shiny new ring.
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If your bridal style is more playful and flirty, add Self-Portrait's tulle mini to cart immediately. The sweet lace dress features a dainty bow at the front, along with crystal trims along the neckline and is guaranteed to make you feel like a bride without being too stuffy.
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For a timeless dress that still feels modern, Maje's floral-embroidered midi is perfect thanks to its sequin embellishments, fitted bustier top and flared skirt. Dress it up with pointed-toe pumps and a beaded clutch for an elegant evening.
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On the hunt for something simple yet sensual? Turn to Omnes’ floral print satin mini with cut-out cold shoulders and cowl sleeves that add a dramatic touch. The glossy frock can easily be dressed up with sparkling jewels for the event but is also simple enough to be worn again after.
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Now while Whistles advertises this silky maxi as a wedding dress, the simple and fuss-free design is perfect for an engagement party. Style with a relaxed updo to show off the crossover straps at the back.
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If your bridal style is relaxed and beachy, Away That Day's crochet maxi will set the tone quite nicely. Ideally at home at a daytime event, it’ll work wonders with wedge heels and a floppy sun hat, perhaps with customised 'bride-to-be' embroidery.
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For a dose of Nineties glamour, you can’t go wrong with Ro & Zo’s bias-cut maxi that languidly drapes across your body. The maxi dress comes with tie-back details and gently puffed sleeves for a romantic touch that’ll pair well with dainty kitten heels and a fresh blowout.
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There’ no better time to go all out than as a bride, and there’s no better brand to do it with than Sister Jane. This dramatic midi gown comes with satin bows all over for a show-stopping outfit that'll guarantee all eyes on you.
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Not one for a white dress? Consider Victoria Beckham's blush pink midi for your engagement soirée. This soft pink dress features puffed sleeves and an asymmetric hem that’s ideal for an understated event and will also make a great addition to your resort-wear wardrobe.
Main image credits: ©Instagram/@mrselfportrait @omnes
Hitanshi Kamdar is a senior commerce writer for Grazia. Hitanshi is always on the hunt for the latest trends, emerging designers and the internet’s most bizarre style discourse. When not writing, she can be found IDing outfits during Netflix binges and shopping for the latest It-girl shoe trends.