Holiday 2012 Trends: Colorful Cocktail Dresses

Nov 9, 2012
LadyLUX • Fashion

As holiday parties and events get closer, so does the inevitable question: “What do I wear?” Luckily, the runways offered plenty of inspiration for colorful cocktail dresses this season that included shimmering details of sequins and beads, pleated styles and fresh silhouettes. Long-sleeved looks proved as elegant as one-shoulder styles while loose and fitted shapes were right on point. Through the endless sea of options and possibilities, we’ve curated the best cocktail dresses to make you look fabulous for any cheerful soiree or festive celebration. Glam up your holiday with a stunner that will turn heads wherever you go.

There is nothing merrier than an emerald green sequin dress and Shoshanna has crafted the perfect one. The shift dress is doused in shiny sequins and finished with tonal piping trim. Add on a casual scarf to add an element of effortlessness and carry your essentials in a small crossbody.

Shine and shimmer in Parker’s fringe beaded dress. The silver brushed sequins are overlaid on a minidress complete with a beaded fringe trim to show off a classic flapper style. On the chilly nights, layer a fur jacket over the shine to contrast textures. Step into simple heeled sandals to round out the look.

Tory Burch spices up the LBD with a striking single-shoulder style. The Ashlee is a figure flattering crepe dress with pleating details on the strap and bodice. Complement the look with sparkling gold peep-toe slingbacks, a stack of bracelets and sassy clutch.

As if it was made for a jolly good time, Herve Leger’s signature essential long sleeve cocktail dress is brilliant in lipstick red. The off-shoulder banded dress hugs all the right curves. Extend the legs with simple pumps and stay warm by pairing the number with an oversized coat.

Halston Heritage’s accordion pleat dress is sweet and sassy. The swing dress features tiny sparkling crystals at the crew neckline. The retro-inspired look feels modern in an indigo blue. Style the dress with a little holiday spirit by adding on red and gold accessories and finishing with a pair of killer heels. Toss on a leather jacket to stay toasty.

Showing a feminine edge, Alice and Olivia’s Azala sequin dress combines a silk-chiffon skirt with a gold sequined bodice. The long-sleeve silhouette is balanced with the flouncy skirt, and is perfectly flirty for a joyful occasion. To give the look an unexpected attitude, pair with open-toe booties or stay classic with pointed toe pumps.

Exclusive to Shopbop, Alice and Olivia present the short-sleeve goddess dress in plum. The wearable style embodies soft chiffon panels across the figure-hugging silhouette. Accent the royal shade with a bold necklace and metallic wristlet.

Show up to holiday parties in style in Herve Leger’s short-sleeve metallic dress. The crackled metallic coating offers a gilded texture to the form-fitting style the brand is known for. Silvery gunmetal panels criss-cross at the waist over silver and gold. Let the dress shine by accompanying the look with a simple miniaudiere and black platform sandals.