There are few things in this life more exciting than receiving a party invitation. Not only does it give you the opportunity to hang out and have fun with your friends, it’s also a great excuse to buy a new dress! In fact, shopping online for a dress to make you look great and then spending hours doing your hair and make-up is often the best part of the night out.

Want to look your best but not sure where to start?

Whether you’re heading to a wedding, a hen do, or a cocktail bar with your closest girlfriends, we’ve got a host of top tips for picking party dresses that will leave you both looking and feeling incredible:

Stick with the 'little black dress'

Every woman understands the power of the little black dress: this versatile wardrobe essential can be worn for almost every occasion. When you have a well-fitting little black dress in your wardrobe, you will always have something to wear.

Whilst the little black dress may be a classic, it doesn’t have to be boring. The key is to look for a dress that features extra detailing such as trims and patterns. This velvet burnout bodycon dress from SilkFred is one such option. The leopard print detailing will attract attention for all the right reasons, whilst the modest sleeves and high neckline means that you could wear this dress almost anywhere.

Wow in a red dress

Want to stand out for the crowd and wear something more show-stopping than your little black dress? Why not invest in a little red dress. Research has shown that women wearing red are instantly more attractive to the opposite sex than women wearing any other colour. Red is bold, attention grabbing and flattering on any skin tone.

When choosing an eye-catching red dress, it’s important to remember the golden rule of selecting an appropriate cocktail dress: show your cleavage or your legs, but never reveal both at the same time! That means if you opt for a plunging neckline, such as the one on this ruffle hem dress, you should aim for a hemline that falls below the knee.

That's a wrap!

Finally, if you’re looking for a dress that will be universally flattering and appropriate for every occasion then don’t overlook the classic wrap dress. First designed and introduced by Diane Von Furstenberg in the 1970s, the wrap dress is having a huge fashion revival right now.

Wrap dresses are effortlessly elegant and feminine. They also look just as good during the day as they do for a big night out. Why not combine two hot trends in one outfit by opting for a wrap dress in this season’s biggest pattern, snake print? With their neutral base and muted colours, snake prints are incredibly easy to wear. Simply add black sandals or nude court shoes, as well as a matching handbag, and you’re ready for whatever the day throws at you!

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