PARTY QUEEN / Nov 01, 2024

6 HOLIDAY COCKTAIL DRESSES THAT'LL MAKE YOU THE TALK OF THE PARTY

Nothing rings in the holidays quite like slipping into the perfect cocktail dress. The invites are rolling in, and it’s time to get serious (but also have fun!) about picking a look that’s festive, flattering, and a little bit unforgettable. 

With sparkle, velvet, and unique cuts, holiday cocktail dresses blend classic style with just the right dose of festive flair, making every event feel a little more magical. 

From shimmering sequins to lush velvet and intricate lace, here are six must-have dresses that will make sure you stand out—and maybe even steal the show—at every party.

What Is a Cocktail Dress?

A cocktail dress is the party staple for the chic and elegant. Usually falling around knee-length, it’s the perfect balance between formal and fun, designed to make you look and feel fabulous without being too formal. 

This dress type has evolved over the years to include trendy cuts, bold fabrics, and festive embellishments, making it the go-to choice for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, and any special evening event where you want to dress to impress.

Holiday Styling Tip

Holiday styling is all about turning up the glam without losing your unique style. Here’s how to nail that festive, elegant, and just-enough-sparkle vibe for the holiday season:

• Pick Statement Accessories: Think bold metallic earrings, layered necklaces, or a chunky bracelet. Statement pieces can elevate any dress without going over the top.
• Metallic and Jewel Tones: Holiday parties are the perfect time to go big with rich hues like emerald, deep red, or sapphire, and metallic touches that reflect festive lights beautifully.
• Add a Pop of Color: A red lip or vibrant clutch can bring the perfect amount of holiday cheer to any outfit.
• Layer with Glamorous Outerwear: A faux fur stole or sleek velvet jacket can keep you warm while adding elegance to your look.
• Mind the Heels: Strappy heels or chic pumps can do wonders, but make sure they’re comfortable enough for a night on your feet. Metallic or classic black options are usually foolproof choices.

Holiday fashion should feel effortless and festive. You’re aiming for a vibe that says, “I’m here to celebrate and look fabulous while I’m at it.”

Turn Heads With These Holiday Cocktail Dresses

Ready to shine? Here’s your stunning lineup of holiday party cocktail dresses that’ll make you look—and feel—like the life of the party.

Twilight Sparkle Sweetheart Dress

Get the look: GS3506 Elizabeth K Glitter Print Mesh Sweetheart Neckline Homecoming Dress

This glittery sweetheart-neckline dress brings sparkle and sophistication. With a fitted bodice and flowy skirt, it’s perfect for twirling under the lights and catching everyone’s eye. The shimmering fabric is just the right amount of festive for any holiday event.

Style this beauty with strappy metallic heels to keep the sparkle going, and add dangling earrings that move with you. A bold red lip completes the classic holiday look, and a small clutch in a complementary shade adds polish to your overall vibe.

Velvet Allure Asymmetric Sequin Dress

Get the look: GS3086 Elizabeth K Asymmetric Velvet Bodycon Short Dress with Sequin

This asymmetric velvet dress is all about bold elegance. The luxurious fabric and unique cut make it a standout, while the sequin detailing catches the light and adds just enough sparkle. It’s ideal for anyone who wants to look sophisticated with a bit of edge.

Pair with pointed-toe pumps to elongate the legs and a choker or statement necklace to enhance the neckline. A sleek low bun keeps the look refined and focuses attention on the dress, giving off major glam vibes.

Romantic Mauve Blossom Chiffon Dress

Get the look: GS1615 Elizabeth K Embroidered Bodice Chiffon Short Dress

For a softer, more romantic look, this mauve chiffon dress with an embroidered bodice is the one to beat. The flowy skirt adds a graceful touch, making it ideal for a night of dancing and socializing.

Style with blush or nude heels to maintain the ethereal vibe, and layer delicate gold jewelry like thin bracelets or dainty rings. Finish with soft waves for an effortlessly charming look that’s all about holiday romance.

Whimsical Floral Lace Cocktail Dress

Get the look: GS1604 Elizabeth K 3D Floral Applique Lace Short Dress

If you’re into intricate details, this dress’s lace and 3D floral appliques are a holiday dream come true. The blush, gray, and light blue tones add a unique twist, making this dress ideal for any festive gathering.

Match with pastel or metallic heels to keep the color scheme cohesive, and opt for minimal jewelry, like small hoops or a simple bracelet. A soft updo highlights the neckline’s details, creating a look that’s both graceful and unforgettable.

Dazzling Cutaway Babydoll Dress

Get the look: GS3097 Elizabeth K Cut Away Shoulder Sequin Short Babydoll Dress

Playful yet sophisticated, this sequin babydoll dress with cut-away shoulders and an open back brings a youthful vibe to any holiday celebration. The flared skirt is made for movement, perfect for dancing the night away.

Add platform heels for a touch of drama, and go with statement earrings to balance out the open back. A sleek hairstyle emphasizes the backless design, making this dress ideal for anyone wanting a chic, fun twist on holiday style. 

Embroidered Satin Sheer Elegance Dres

Get the look: GS3516 Elizabeth K Spaghetti Strap Embroidery Embellished Sheer Bodice Satin Bodycon Cocktail Dress

This satin bodycon dress with spaghetti straps and an embroidered sheer bodice is all about effortless elegance. The sleek satin hugs your curves, and the intricate embroidery adds a sophisticated touch, making it the perfect showstopper for the holiday season.

Keep the look refined with metallic or nude strappy heels, and go for a statement choker or earrings to accentuate the neckline. Add a chic blazer or cozy wrap for a bit of warmth, and finish with a deep berry or classic red lip for that perfect holiday flair.

Steal the Spotlight with GLS Collective’s Holiday Cocktail Dresses

This season, make your mark with holiday cocktail dresses that bring all the sparkle, sophistication, and style to every event. GLS Collective’s collection is crafted for those who want their cocktail holiday attire to speak volumes—bold, elegant, and unforgettable. 

Whether you're going for timeless romance, playful sparkle, or edgy allure, we have the looks that’ll make sure all eyes are on you. Don a show-stopping dress from GLS Collective and let your holiday cocktail attire be the talk of every party. 

Shop our collection and turn your festive nights into a true celebration of style!

Get inspired by our other style guides:

How to Wear a Bodycon Dress: X Outfit Ideas to Celebrate Your Curves

Work Party Outfit Ideas: Five Dresses for Formal Event.