The change in the weather certainly means a change in our social calendars, and if you want to make a statement at your next party, then you may be looking for the perfect party dress to get out on the dance floor in.
The glitz and the glamour of spring and summer (and Christmas on the way) has us looking for bold moments like glitter, sequins and paillettes, colour, texture and varying levels of sheer dressing – because the art of dopamine dressing is here to stay.
WATCH: Christie Brinkley rocks mini black dress during farewell party
Finding that perfect party dress that will have you feeling your most confident while you shimmy and strut between soirees is not an easy task and the options are oh-so endless. We get it, it can be overwhelming.
Consider this the ultimate guide to party dresses, with options to suit any occasion, style and budget.
The best party dresses to buy in 2023
The best black party dresses
The LBD is a staple of any true party wardrobe. Whether it’s mini, maxi, sequined or simple – a black party dress is an undeniable classic.

Malisha mini dress, $90 (usually $119.95), Showpo
Take the classic little black dress to the next level with this sequined mini that is a must-have before silly season.

Draped body dress, $149.95, MNG
A vintage silhouette that still feels modern, we love the full skirt and fitted bodice on this party-perfect mini.

Aere Short sleeve dress, $180, THE ICONIC
This elegant midi dress is a great wardrobe addition as it can be styled both casually and for festive occasions. Accessorise with strappy shoes and delicate jewellery for your next night out.
The best white party dresses
On the other hand, a white party dress just has something about it that we can’t help but love. Easy to style, you can pair these dresses with any colour accessory to make them pop even more.

Belle & Bloom Lovesick mini dress, $179.95, THE ICONIC
Ideal for long summer evenings, this feminine silhouette is ultra-flattering and the subtle lace material adds a special touch.

Starlet Super mini dress, $209, ASOS
Truly what could be more festive than this love heart-adorned mini from Starlet, it puts the festivity in the festive season and is perfect for the maximalist dresser.

Khiara mini dress, $89.95, Showpo
We love this asymmetrical dress with a statement bow for a more lightweight silhouette that screams summer. You’ll find us sporting this to beachside bars on those long hot nights you won’t forget.
The best cocktail dresses
Cocktail parties call for a slightly more refined style of party dress than you would usually style on a night out. Look for midi dress silhouettes or elegant mini dresses to nail the dress code.

Eternal flame dress, $189.99, Sheike
In a stunning and flattering chocolate, burgundy shade that suits any skin tone. The silhouette of this dress makes it perfect for more formal events, styled with statement earrings and you have a winner of a ‘fit.

Ashton metallic strapless dress, $189.99, Forever New
In a stunning metallic fabric that falls flattering over the body, we can’t take our eyes off this strapless midi dress.

Shona Joy Luxe ruched straight neck midi dress, $295, THE ICONIC
If this is for an event and you want to splurge out a little more, we can’t stop thinking about this red wine-coloured midi dress from Shona Joy. Also a great option for winter weddings.
The best mini-party dresses
Sometimes you’re just wanting something short, sultry and flirty and a mini dress certainly does the job. A mini is an ultra-versatile silhouette and is perfect for adding some fun to your next party look.

Runaway The Label Chyna dress, $119, THE ICONIC
Turn heads in this little lilac number that offers a point of difference thanks to the asymmetrical neckline and a subtle shimmer throughout the material.

Lioness Glory blush mini dress, $79, Beginning Boutique
If you love the rosette trend then this sweet blush mini dress is the one for you. As it has long sleeves this is great party piece for any season.

Adeline rose halter mini dress, $99, Meshki
A sure statement piece, the Adeline mini is the dress for your main character moment. It’s super flattering thanks to the comfortable stretch material and comes in three other colourways.
The best midi party dresses
On the other hand, you may after something that offers a bit more coverage or for those events that warrant something longer. A slinky midi dress is a timeless, elegant party piece that you can wear to almost any occasion.

More To Come Mieko Cowl back dress, $94.33 (usually $133.78), Revolve
If you’re after a dress that practically screams long summer nights then this tangerine dream is the one for you. Strappy with a seductive cowl back, it feels classy yet still modern and fresh.

Appliqué halterneck dress, $89.99, H&M
In a fitted silhouette that sits comfortably on the body, the detachable flower appliqué adds a feminine touch.

Welcome Style halter satin midi dress, $85, Hello Molly
In a stunning vibrant blue colour, this glamorous halter midi dress is sure to turn heads.
The best affordable party dresses
There is no need to burn a hole in your wallet or take out a loan in order to find that perfect party dress. There are plenty of affordable options on the market and they certainly hold their own.

Strapless mini sequin dress, $49.99, Glassons
You’ll be the life of the party in this mini sequined dress that is not only stunning but under $50. Pair with some strappy black heels and you’ve got yourself a party look.

Party Mood sequin maxi dress, $109, Hello Molly
0You can find formal party dresses that suit your budget if you know where to look. We can’t stop thinking about this sequined maxi dress from Hello Molly that looks like it would cost a million bucks.

Open back sequin mini dress, $27.47 (usually $54.95), NA-KD
Make a statement in style with this lime green sequinned mini in an asymmetrical design that flatters any body type. We love the idea of pairing this with purple and gold accessories for a colour blocking moment.