Summer might feel like yesterday, but the festive season is nonetheless upon us, which means lots of parties! A good party dress is all in the detailing, so get ready to sport this season's graphic prints, metallics and ladylike midi and three-quarter length sleeved silhouettes this Christmas.
This short sleeve silk dress (£340) from Sea NY features lace panels at the front and back, a tie up corset front and an elasticated nipped waistline making it one of the most flattering little black dresses we've come across yet.
Retro, quirky and cute with a festive red, blue and green pattern, this Renewal O&O Asymmetric Lapel Dress (£45) is another great day/night transitional dress, which can be easily glammed up with a few great accessories.
Polka-dots are big this season and this satin and ruched tulle dress (£160) with three-quarter length sleeves uses them to great effect. Meanwhile, the V shaped back detail and detachable satin belt for cinching in the waist will help flatter all figures.
Is it a mini? Is it a maxi? It's both! This stunning navy blue, silk dress (£350) features a daring slit to reveal a sparkling sequin insert underneath - flash some leg, flash some sparkle and you're sure to be the Christmas belle of the ball.
If you tire of the sombre palette worn by most in the winter months, you’ll love the graphic print of this silk-crepe dress (£400) from Rag & Bone, which gives this season’s elegant midi length a modern twist.
This red dress by Vero Moda (£30) will help add some pizzazz to your party. Meanwhile, its fitted bodice and flared skirt add some flirty fun while the double layered hem with beige adds style.
This metallic gold Vivienne Westwood 'Fond' dress (£392) will add instant glamour to whichever party you wear it. Team it with silver or gold hoop earrings and a killer pair of heels and they'll be lining up for kisses under the mistletoe.
Be demure and flirtatious in this pretty dress (£225) from Reiss, where the popular three-quarter length sleeve is teamed with a semi-exposed back, rear-tie detail and stunning lace material with contrast piping.
With its on-trend Vreeland bouquet print and its flattering fit and flare silhouette, this dress makes a great transitional piece for those heading straight from the office to a party this winter. Just add heels and lippy!
Channel the arctic look with this fabulous, satin, Northern Lights printed dress (£61) from Great Plains. It makes a serious style statement while bringing a seasonal flavour to those Christmas parties.
Available in red, purple and black this pleated party dress (£75) by kiki features waterfall pleats down the front and detail round the waist making it a very flattering option and a great dress in which to twirl round the dance floor.
This crepe suit dress (£249) from Ted Baker gives a nod to this season's androgynous trend without sacrificing femininity, elegance or style. It's the perfect cocktail party dress and a little black dress that you can wear time and time again.
Keep warm while looking stylish in this luxurious cashmere and fur Fendi dress – an elegant and feminine cocktail style for those swanky soirées. It costs £650 to buy but you can hire it from Girl Meets Dress for £149.
This striking green and black zig-zag printed dress (£240) by Acne features a deep v-neckline and oversizes keyhole opening in the back. It's something of a show-stopper and a great little party frock to see you through the Christmas party season and beyond.
French Connection has embraced the metallic trend this winter to offer a dazzling yet edgy array of striking party dresses in both short and maxi styles. We love this Dragon Queen Dress £220 for a dramatic evening option – no jewellery necessary.