The Best Evening Dresses For Holiday-Party Season and Beyond

If you're looking for affordable evening dresses that are sophisticated yet still relaxed enough for you to move around or endlessly twirl around the dance floor in, we can't recommend this ASOS Design Sleeveless Chiffon Midaxi Dress ($52) enough. The sleeveless evening gown is fitted with a chiffon-draped design that elevates the slip with a sheer flair. It's also available in a moody black colorway, too!

Planning on doing some party-hopping this holiday season? You'll need a versatile, sophisticated, and warm frock like this Something Navy Turtleneck Open Back Sweater Dress ($124, originally $165) to keep you feeling comfortable and covered through even the chilliest winter nights. Pair the body-hugging style with chunky knee-high boots or even sparkly heels for the most regal evening ensemble.

When you're attending an event where you're not quite sure what the dress code is or what's appropriate to wear, we recommend opting for a more versatile and layered piece like this Mango Striped Satin Dress ($130). You get a playful flair up top with the gown's relaxed, striped design and a more fashion-forward base courtesy of the satin skirt.

All eyes will be on you in this olive-colored Mac Duggal Sequined Drop Shoulder Faux Wrap Gown ($398). The floor-length evening dress is wrapped in glitzy sequin embellishments that are eye-catching without being too overbearing. The drop-shoulder design completes the look with a formal structure, and we love the leg slit — which is breathable and totally perfect for showing off your shoes, too!

While elegant evening gowns tend to be more sophisticated and formal than other daytime styles, that doesn't necessarily equate to them being super expensive. Case in point: this minimalistic H&M Satin Wrap Dress ($40), which is equal parts stylish and affordable. The muted gown is simple enough to wear to a more polished office party or dress up with statement shoes and an evening bag for a night out on the town.

It simply doesn't get more regal than this Significant Other Demi Dress ($286). Of all the midi evening dresses that are available to shop online, this gold-toned slip is arguably our favorite thanks to the formal gown's cutout detailing, balloon-sleeved design, and practical back-zipper accent.

There are endless ways to style a slip dress, and the proof is in this Dynamite The Midi Slip Dress ($109). The simple midi dress can easily be dressed down with chunky boots and a winter jacket or dressed up with stilettos, delicate gold jewelry, and a classic clutch for any black-tie affair.

This Zara Short Dress With Ruching ($60) proves that minidresses can actually make just as much of a statement as any floor-length styles. Crafted from a glossy polyester material, this Zara evening dress oozes a party-ready vibe that feels primed for wear on New Year's Eve and beyond.

If you have any black-tie events coming up on your calendar, you'll definitely appreciate having this princess-style Aidan Mattox Metallic Off the Shoulder Gown ($550) incorporated into your wardrobe. The floor-length evening gown is wrapped in an iridescent, metallic design that's so regal, it looks as if it's fit for a queen.

Perhaps you're looking to slip into something a little sexier for your next late-night soirée? This red-hot House of CB Adrienne Satin Strapless Gown ($299) is elegant and playful with a corset-like silhouette that hugs the body in all the right places. Pair it with matching red stilettos for a bold and totally cohesive ensemble.

Liven up the fashion vibe at your next holiday party or gala with this Reformation Veria Silk Dress ($398). While many evening dresses are notably muted and simple, this halter-top evening dress manages to incorporate a floral-centric design that's refreshingly unique yet still polished enough to wear to a variety of upscale events.