“What are you wearing?” This is a common question that’s asked repeatedly, no matter the occasion. We think it’s a totally valid question, because—as many women know—you can have the most overstuffed wardrobe this side of the southern hemisphere, but that still won’t mean you necessarily have anything to wear. For each different occasion, there’s an up-to-the-minute maxi, midi, or mini to match. But do you have the right one in your possession? And if you don’t, will you be able to make do with what you have?
If the answer to any or all of the above is no, fear not! It’s never too late for a shopping spree, right? Here are some stunning evening dress ideas fit for all occasions. Whether you’re looking for something long and luscious or you’re pursuing that perfect party dress, we’ll help you find what you’re after. Let’s go (browser) window shopping!
Maxi dresses fit for a party
The Lucy Dress (left) and the Marta Dress (right). Images: Alamour The Label
The Lucy Dress and the Marta Dress are textbook examples of party maxi dresses in a seductive style. On the one hand, the Marta Dress is form-fitting yet flowy, providing full coverage, except for where it counts. It is a picture of formality undercut—literally—by subtle, seductive winks at the leg and bust. Black is a perfect choice here because this shade fits both of these themes or intentions. The Lucy Dress, on the other hand, provides full coverage but finishes just above the bust. It clings to the neck from a skinny halter strap, keeping the arms on display. Why have we classed this as seductive? Well, because red is the colour of seduction! Pair it with a set of heels or strappy sandals and you’re only elevating the look—literally!
The Jolie Dress. Image: Alamour The Label
Not all maxi party dresses are created equal. If you want your princess moment, the Jolie Dress is the closest thing you’ll get to Cinderella’s ballgown. It doesn’t always need to be sexy to be suitable—but that is always a plus, right?
Midi dresses: also fit for a party
If you’re after something shorter, there are also midi party dresses on the market in an array of different designs! For today, let’s focus on the Perla Dress and the Flora Dress: two very beautiful garments that, in ways, couldn’t be more different.
The Perla Dress (left) and the Flora Dress (right). Images: Alamour The Label
The Perla Dress is understated yet fabulous. It may be a muted gold colour, but look closely—or under the right light—and you’ll see its endless, eye-catching glitter fabric. Wear this with some sequinned shoes or matching earrings and you’ll surely be the belle of the ball! The aptly named Flora Dress is just as glittery but is a whole lot less subtle about it. Show up at any event and this dress will stand out. It is bright colours against a dark, bold backdrop and a celebration of all things floral. Show up in this one if you’re not afraid to show a little shoulder and flirt with the boundaries of bust coverage.
Side-slitted ensembles
Though we have flirted with the idea of side-slitted dresses already, let’s explore the concept in full. If there’s any evening dress suited to all occasions, it’s bound to be one with a side slit. These simple additions speak to class and also allow a cheeky peek at your legs.
The Vallara Dress (left) and the Kara Dress (right). Images: Alamour The Label
This odd couple reiterates that two dresses can be the same design without being cut from the same cloth. If you examine these two dresses from the perspective of cut, they’re actually not that different. Sure, the Vallara Dress is a midi and the Kara Dress is a maxi, but look at their shapes: they both grip at the waist, they both have a cowl neckline, they both have a lace-up back (though you can’t see it here), and—most importantly—they both have a side slit. And these dynamite features are enough to empower any woman as she enters the room.
The Kara Dress is a little more versatile than the Vallara Dress. Whilst the latter is strictly for formal or evening occasions, the former is more of a day dress. For us, it’s the side slit that renders it suitable for evening events. So whether you prefer single blocks of colour or something patterned and floral, side-slitted dresses will suit all occasions.
Frilly favourites
Some occasions are more straight-laced than others, but that doesn’t mean you can’t frill it up. Frills are like the garnish on a delicious snack—and by snack, we mean you, of course! Flirty, fun, and visually interesting, frills can provide fun-sized textured portions to ensembles fit for a queen. Here’s what we mean.
The Carly Dress (left) and the Fleur Floral Yellow Roses Midi Set (right). Images: Alamour The Label
Featuring puce plumes almost floral, the Carly Dress is the closest you’ll get to wearing an actual rose. Make a subtle yet elegant entrance at any occasion with this flowy, feminine ensemble that’s ruffled in all the right places. The Fleur Floral Yellow Roses Midi Set, whilst technically not a dress, is a tantalising two-piece with one-piece energy. Because it’s broken in two, it can close off each separate segment with a frilly hemline. We are digging the way the frills and florals combine in harmony to create a light and breezy day dress that would also slay at any evening occasion.
So, what are you going to wear?
When presented with a small wardrobe of options, it’s normal to find this either clarifying or paralysing. Yay for totes adorbs dress options, but which should you choose? Look to the dress code of your special event for guidance. As a general rule of thumb, the more formal the event, the longer the dress should be. Moreover, formal events typically call for single blocks of colour, so save your florals for something lighter and more fun.
Finally, every dress will look slightly different on each girl. If it makes you feel any less than the queen that you are, then do not settle. If it makes you feel beautiful, then go all in and own that look! Gowns look gorgeous and accentuate all the right features, and your confidence will finish the look. No matter how much you bring the bling or elevate your ensemble with killer heels, confidence will be the best accessory you ever wear—to any occasion. So, what are you waiting for? Add your favourites to your online cart now. With evening dresses like these, you really can’t go wrong.
