The race is on! It’s time to start looking for this year’s scene-stealing dress. We pick our favourite party dresses under $200
Every festive season has us scrambling at the last minute for the perfect dresses for Christmas cocktails and New Year’s Eve parties. We mean business this year, so we kickstarted our search early (so many parties, so little time). Only problem? With several cocktail dress purchases to make (on top of all the food, wine and decor we’re splurging on), we challenged ourselves to a $200 budget. We think we came out on top; see for yourself with our best picks of party dresses under $200.
Halston Heritage Cutout paneled satin and pleated cotton and silk-blend dress
Ah, the LBD. A must-have in every woman’s wardrobe. This timeless number by Halston Heritage (a contemporary take on legendary label Halston) features a luxe mix of satin, cotton blend and silk with panel cutouts on the side and back to keep it playful.
$180, from Halston Heritage via The Outnet
Cocktail Lemon Dress by Sundays the Label ($125)
All eyes will be on you in this dress by Aussie-based Sundays the Label. The head-turning red guarantees you the spotlight, while the off-the-shoulder neckline and thigh-high slit lets you flaunt the bod you’ve been working at all year. Shop it online from Willow & Huxley or head instore store to the Amoy Street or Tanglin Mall branches. Warning: You’ll probably leave with more than one shopping bag.
$125, from Sundays the Label via Willow and Huxley
Lori-Lace Plunge Neck dress from theWyldShop
The flirty flare silhouette, and cream lace keeps the plunge neckline of this angelic frock from pushing the envelope a little too far. Don’t forget to secure that neckline with a little tape so you’ll be dancing carefree all night.
$75, from theWYLDShop
One shoulder sequin mini bodycon dress
The holidays are that one time a year we’re happy to be entirely covered in sequins. Go big or go home with this one shoulder number from Topshop. You’ll want to keep accessories minimal here – you’ll be glittering like a discoball.
$125, from Topshop
Missguided Plunge Flared Sleeve Skater Dress
In a sea of body-hugging dresses and sequinned frocks, you’ll look ethereal in this floaty, dreamy kimono number by Missguided. Its champagne-coloured, shimmery fabric keeps its party appropriate, while its forgiving silhouette lets you binge on turkey and wine without worrying about a possible protruding pooch.
$84.90, from Missguided via Zalora
True Decadence All Over Mesh Skater Dress with Ruffle Hem
Trend-led True Decadence gives us serious Mr Self Portrait vibes with the playful ruffles and woven mesh fabric of this striking number. The clever peekaboo lining gives you discreet coverage while flaunting just a little bit of skin. Bonus: it’s available in petite and tall.
$198.26, from True Decadence via ASOS
ASOS Sequin Kimono Maxi Dress
Spin through cocktail hour in a sequin haze with this need-right-now maxi from ASOS collection. The split hem lets you flaunt a little leg, so don’t leave without your shiniest stiletto. Slip those dangling earrings on, and you’re good to go.
$161.63, from ASOS
Metallic dress from Zara
The strong shoulders and disco metallics of this blazer dress is Balmain and the 80s all over again. We’d wager we’ll see this on every “fashion girl” this festive season. Keep your hair slicked back, and team it with boots or white sneakers.
$139, from Zara
Like this story? Here’s more we think you’ll enjoy:
Where to buy affordable party dresses
Your guide to evening dresses
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