35 Flattering Pieces That Make Some Seriously Jaw-Dropping 21st Birthday Outfits

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Oh, the much-anticipated 21st birthday! For many, it's a rite of passage worth celebrating (you can finally order a drink at a bar!). While some people choose to throw a big birthday bash, others take it easy with a Zoom party or perhaps an elaborate dinner party. No matter what the plan is, one thing is clear: there needs to be a birthday look that rises to the moment.

Whether it's a formfitting midi dress with a side slit or a revealing cropped cardigan that'll pair well with sleek trousers, we found some undeniably chic pieces that dial up the sex appeal. Even if you're in a more conservative mood, there's a top, pair of pants, or dress in the selection for you. Scroll on to see.

A Walk on the Wild Side: Zara Printed Short Dress
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A Walk on the Wild Side: Zara Printed Short Dress

Go for a wild print that speaks to your playful side in this Zara Printed Short Dress ($40). The print alone has us sold, but the silhouette and fit are the cherry on top of the cake.

A Classic Little Black Top: Sokie Collective One Shoulder Going Out Top
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A Classic Little Black Top: Sokie Collective One Shoulder Going Out Top

This slim-fitting Sokie Collective One Shoulder Going Out Top ($69, originally $98) will make a sleek impression at the next date night or friends' night out. The single-shoulder silhouette dials up the allure, while the overall design is versatile and easy to pair with laid-back denim jeans or polished skirts.

A Compliment-Worthy Top: H&M Crop Cardigan
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A Compliment-Worthy Top: H&M Crop Cardigan

This H&M Crop Cardigan ($40) will turn heads wherever you go, because it's so distinctly chic and effortlessly elegant. The muted shade makes sure you can style it with everything, from tan tailored trousers to a structured midi skirt.

For Day-to-Night Versatility: Zara Full Length Faux the '90s Leather Pants
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For Day-to-Night Versatility: Zara Full Length Faux the '90s Leather Pants

These glossy Zara Full Length Faux the '90s Leather Pants ($50) will amp up any look, whether you pair them with an asymmetric top, a knit sweater, or a fitted blouse. They are professional enough for daytime work meetings or after-dark parties.

Ruched Detailing: Nasty Gal Satin Cowl Mini Dress
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Ruched Detailing: Nasty Gal Satin Cowl Mini Dress

The side strings of this Nasty Gal Ruched Satin Cowl Mini Dress ($24, originally $59) give it texture, while the satin fabric will likely feel soft to the touch. It will hug your curves nicely.

The Perfect Slip Dress: ASTR the Label Alva Body-Con Midi Dress
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The Perfect Slip Dress: ASTR the Label Alva Body-Con Midi Dress

This ASTR the Label Alva Body-Con Midi Dress ($138) is a chic way to do lingerie-style dressing. It oozes femininity and confidence, and it's perfect for a night on the town.

A Dress That's Made For You: Dress the Population Martine Stretch Crepe One-Shoulder Dress
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A Dress That's Made For You: Dress the Population Martine Stretch Crepe One-Shoulder Dress

This Dress the Population Martine Stretch Crepe One-Shoulder Dress ($148) makes a sleek, modern, and sexy statement in your closet. If it gets chilly, just wear it under a leather jacket or a trench coat, and you'll be good to go.

A Corset-Style Top: Nasty Gal Recycled Rib Button Front Crop Top
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A Corset-Style Top: Nasty Gal Recycled Rib Button Front Crop Top

This Nasty Gal Recycled Rib Button Front Crop Top ($9, originally $48) features a corset bodice and a plunging neckline for maximum allure. Whether you style yours with casual jeans or amp things up with sleek leather trousers, you will look effortlessly stylish.

An Open-Back Statement: Nasty Gal Knitted Ribbed Midi Dress
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An Open-Back Statement: Nasty Gal Knitted Ribbed Midi Dress

Show off your back in an elegant way in this Nasty Gal Knitted Ribbed Midi Dress ($24, originally $59), which features a high neck, a relaxed silhouette, and long sleeves. Style it with strappy heels.

Guaranteed Crowd Pleaser: Nasty Gal Jersey Plunging Sweetheart Neckline Slit Front Midi Dress
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Guaranteed Crowd Pleaser: Nasty Gal Jersey Plunging Sweetheart Neckline Slit Front Midi Dress

The square neckline and relaxed silhouette of this Nasty Gal Jersey Plunging Sweetheart Neckline Slit Front Midi Dress ($24, originally $60) make it extremely wearable. Pair it with a dainty chain necklace or a chunky gold style, and finish with stiletto heels.

An Undeniably Chic Set: A.L.C. Eleanor Rib-Knit Cardigan
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An Undeniably Chic Set: A.L.C. Eleanor Rib-Knit Cardigan

This A.L.C. Eleanor Rib-Knit Cardigan ($95, originally $395) is refined enough to wear on festive occasions yet still casually elegant for everyday moments. Pair it with the matching A.L.C. Logan Rib-Knit Flared Pants ($95, originally $395) for the ultimate chic set.

A Slinky Silhouette: Lisa Says Gah Elenor Wild Hearts Long Sleeve Ruched Minidress
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A Slinky Silhouette: Lisa Says Gah Elenor Wild Hearts Long Sleeve Ruched Minidress

The psychedelic heart print of this Elenor Wild Hearts Long Sleeve Ruched Minidress ($138) makes it stand out, and we also appreciate that it's cut from a recycled mesh fabric. The silhouette is flattering, making the dress a perfect pick for a date night or friends' night out.

For a Special Occasion: OPT Gertie Dress
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For a Special Occasion: OPT Gertie Dress

Reserve this OPT Gertie Dress ($82, originally $137) for dressy occasions like a hot date or office party. The asymmetrical cutout is unexpectedly playful, definitely dialing up the allure. Pair it with tall heeled boots or strappy heels.

Some Cutout-Shoulder Action: Enza Costa Silk Rib Angled Neck Midi Dress
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Some Cutout-Shoulder Action: Enza Costa Silk Rib Angled Neck Midi Dress

This Enza Costa Silk Rib Angled Neck Midi Dress ($225) oozes sex appeal, confidence, and femininity. It's a great one to dress up or down, depending on the mood.

An Effortlessly Elegant Pick: H&M+ Lace-Trimmed Slip Dress
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An Effortlessly Elegant Pick: H&M+ Lace-Trimmed Slip Dress

This H&M+ Lace-Trimmed Slip Dress ($35) oozes easy elegance, plus the fabric has a luxe appeal. Style it with a blazer for the office and on its own with mules for date night.

A Cool Print: AllSaints Melody Pembury Midi Slipdress
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A Cool Print: AllSaints Melody Pembury Midi Slipdress

The print and silhouette of this AllSaints Melody Pembury Midi Slipdress ($155, originally $259) make it stylish and airy. Pair with sneakers for a laid-back look or low-heeled mules for a dressier appearance.

A Designer Piece: Christopher Esber Ruched Crop Shirt
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A Designer Piece: Christopher Esber Ruched Crop Shirt

Christopher Esber is one of the hottest designers of the moment, known for his feminine pieces that ooze easy elegance and sensuality. We're crushing on this Christopher Esber Ruched Crop Shirt ($336, originally $480), which we're planning to pair with high-waisted jeans for a semidressy look or leather pants for a more polished ensemble.

A Red-Hot Moment: Nasty Gal Wrap Front Satin Midi Shirt Dress
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A Red-Hot Moment: Nasty Gal Wrap Front Satin Midi Shirt Dress

In a sea of wrap dresses, this Nasty Gal Wrap Front Satin Midi Shirt Dress ($40, originally $99) will definitely stand out. Cut in gleaming satin that will nicely hug your body without making you feel restrained, it will pair well with heels and a chunky gold necklace.

Not Your Average White Top: Zara Ruched Satin Effect Shirt
zara.com

Not Your Average White Top: Zara Ruched Satin Effect Shirt

This Ruched Satin Effect Shirt ($50) is a fun twist on a typical white button-down, and it packs just as much day-to-night versatility. We like the ruched detail and easygoing fit.

A Classic Blazer: Zara Buttoned Textured Weave Blazer
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A Classic Blazer: Zara Buttoned Textured Weave Blazer

This Buttoned Textured Weave Blazer ($119) will make you feel in charge, thanks to the structured silhouette and imposing presence. We love it paired with a matching skirt for a standout suit or with tailored trousers or jeans depending on the occasion.

A Bold Look: Naked Wardrobe One-Shoulder Faux Leather Midi Dress
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A Bold Look: Naked Wardrobe One-Shoulder Faux Leather Midi Dress

We can totally see Lori Harvey rocking this Naked Wardrobe One-Shoulder Faux Leather Midi Dress ($108), how about you? Channel your inner femme fatale in this fitted leather number that brings a shoulder-baring silhouette and sleek faux-leather finish.

A Printed Mini: Zara Printed Short Dress
zara.com

A Printed Mini: Zara Printed Short Dress

We love a printed dress, so this Zara Printed Short Dress ($50) immediately caught our attention. It has a relaxed yet put-together air that makes it a winner in our books.

An Outfit Repeater: Nasty Gal Recycled Ribbed Knitted Cut Out Midi Dress
nastygal.com

An Outfit Repeater: Nasty Gal Recycled Ribbed Knitted Cut Out Midi Dress

This Nasty Gal Recycled Ribbed Knitted Cut Out Midi Dress ($15, originally $89) is cut in a soft fabric and features an unexpected bodice cutout that amps up the sex appeal. We guarantee you'll be repeating this outfit!

A Seductive Style: Significant Other Monza Cutout Jersey Midi Dress
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A Seductive Style: Significant Other Monza Cutout Jersey Midi Dress

This sultry Significant Other Monza Cutout Jersey Midi Dress ($220) features front cutouts, signature drapery, and a slim fit, perfect for cocktails on a roof. It has an understated elegance that makes it ready for your next date or vacation night out.

For Maximum Allure: Minkpink Willow Ruched Jersey Dress
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For Maximum Allure: Minkpink Willow Ruched Jersey Dress

This Minkpink Willow Ruched Jersey Dress ($90, originally $129) will accentuate your figure, thanks to its lustrous knit and slinky silhouette. It will look great with mules or kitten heels.

A Dreamy Statement: & Other Stories Off Shoulder Tulle Midi Dress
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A Dreamy Statement: & Other Stories Off Shoulder Tulle Midi Dress

This & Other Stories Off Shoulder Tulle Midi Dress ($249) looks straight out of a fairy tale with its voluminous neckline and air of royal elegance. Save it for a fancy gala or a themed holiday party.

A Taffeta Affair: Self Portrait Lace-Detailed Midi Dress
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A Taffeta Affair: Self Portrait Lace-Detailed Midi Dress

This lustrous Self Portrait Lace-Detailed Taffeta Midi Dress ($555) is cocktail ready. It features slightly dramatic puff sleeves, a pleated bodice, and ruched detailing for a flattering fit and polished look.

A Green Statement: J.Crew Open-Back Silk Charmeuse Dress
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A Green Statement: J.Crew Open-Back Silk Charmeuse Dress

The green jewel tone of this J.Crew Open-Back Silk Charmeuse Dress ($262, originally $328) gives it a luxe appearance, while the side slit amps up the sex appeal. It also features a head-turning open back, which makes it an all-around irresistible look.

An Elegant Top: H&M Rhinestone-Embellished Rib-Knit Top
www2.hm.com

An Elegant Top: H&M Rhinestone-Embellished Rib-Knit Top

This H&M Rhinestone-Embellished Rib-Knit Top ($35) is an easy way to look polished and put-together. Complete the look with leather pants or a slip skirt.

Your New Favorite LBD: H&M+ Rib-Knit Dress
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Your New Favorite LBD: H&M+ Rib-Knit Dress

This H&M+ Rib-Knit Dress ($40) dials up the allure with the neckline, and we like the matching turtleneck piece if you opt for more coverage and warmth. The rib-knit fabric makes it look quite polished.

For a Figure-Sculpting Number: Naked Wardrobe Hourglass Midi Dress
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For a Figure-Sculpting Number: Naked Wardrobe Hourglass Midi Dress

Flaunt what your mama gave ya in this flattering Naked Wardrobe Hourglass Midi Dress ($64). It will hug you in all the right places with its figure-sculpting silhouette, polished fabric, and charming hue.

A Standout Style: ASTR the Label Halter Neck Satin Maxi Dress
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A Standout Style: ASTR the Label Halter Neck Satin Maxi Dress

This ASTR the Label Halter Neck Satin Maxi Dress ($89) will move beautifully with every step thanks to its figure-sculpting silhouette. The ruched details, halter neck, and side slit all come together to create a sultry effect.

For a Night Out: AFRM Adut Cutout Bodice Long Sleeve Mesh Midi Dress
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For a Night Out: AFRM Adut Cutout Bodice Long Sleeve Mesh Midi Dress

You'll feel confident and sexy in this head-turning AFRM Adut Cutout Bodice Long Sleeve Mesh Midi Dress ($88). Complete the look with some thong sandals and a cute shoulder bag.

An Intricate Black Dress: Nasty Gal Satin Animal Jacquard Midi Dress
nastygal.com

An Intricate Black Dress: Nasty Gal Satin Animal Jacquard Midi Dress

The subtle print of this Nasty Gal Satin Animal Jacquard Midi Dress ($24, originally $60) gives it visual interest, while the ruched bust and square neckline give it a feminine edge. Paired with your favorite pair of mules, it makes a decidedly polished, head-turning ensemble.

A Vibrant Dress: Norma Kamali Halter Turtle Side Slit Gown
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A Vibrant Dress: Norma Kamali Halter Turtle Side Slit Gown

Norma Kamali is a master of the female form and of effortlessly elegant silhouettes, and this Norma Kamali Halter Turtle Side Slit Gown ($109, originally $145) lives up to the designer's excellence. Plus the vibrant pop of pink is undeniably glamorous.

A Classic Look: ASTR the Label Gaia Sleeveless Midi Slip Dress
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A Classic Look: ASTR the Label Gaia Sleeveless Midi Slip Dress

If you're going to go for a classic slip dress, then make it one that will definitely stand out. This ASTR the Label Gaia Sleeveless Midi Slip Dresss ($98) is a guaranteed way to turn heads wherever you go.