I’m going to an engagement party with the dress code “fancy” next month, and it occurred to me that I’m not entirely sure what I want to wear yet.
I’ve known for a while that my closet is a bit lacking in one key category: fancy dresses. Ironically, the majority of my closet is dresses and skirts, but when it comes to fancier ones, I usually rely on renting through the app Pickle. It’s been perfect so far, but with an early November celebration and holiday gatherings coming up, I’d like to have a wider collection of my own.
If you’re in a similar position, my advice is to look at brands like Paloma Wool, Réalisation, Reformation, Rixo, and St. Agni as a starting point, plus the edits at Nordstrom (the Space section specifically), Net-a-Porter, Revolve, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Ssense. And if all else fails? A black silk dress is always reliable.
As I’ve been bookmarking every option that’s caught my eye while researching, here are the standouts.
Paolina Russo
Sleeveless Bias Cut Chiffon Maxi Dress
This Paolina Russo dress is incredible.
Vivienne Westwood
Burgundy Sunday Midi Dress
This Vivienne Westwood dress has been on my wish list for ages.
SILK LAUNDRY
Halter Dress Black
A staple silk halter from Silk Laundry.
EMILY DAWN LONG
Dammit Janet Sleeveless Dress
I recommend looking at all of Emily Dawn Long’s dresses.
Lamia Lagha
Salma Dress Red
Worn with red tights and strappy black heels, as styled above.
AARON ESH
Black Asymmetric Halter Maxi Dress
This Aaron Esh dress is stunning.
j.crew
Collection Halter Slip Dress
Navy always feels elevated.
Reformation
Casette Silk Maxi Dress
I rented Reformation’s Casette Silk Maxi Dress for a wedding once and got so many compliments.
With sheer black tights and Manolos.
Ramy Brook
Shauna Satin Strapless Open Back Midi-Dress
Nia
Daisy Fit & Flare Midi Dress
Nia is worth taking a look at.
Peachy Den
Amelia One Shoulder Maxi Dress
This dress from Peachy Den is selling out.
j.crew
Off-The-Shoulder Mini Dress
An off-the-shoulder nylon mini.
In the shade Fiery Coral.
Simone Rocha
Bow Detail Silk Satin Dress
I’m obsessed with the Bow Detail Silk Satin Dress by Simone Rocha.
NORMA KAMALI
Open-Back Draped Satin Mini Dress
Banana Republic
Crepe Twist-Shoulder Dress
This color is definitely out of my comfort zone, but I’m kind of feeling this teal.
If you’re a minimalist dresser, you’ll love the brand Rue Sophie.
DÔEN
Daphne Lace-Trimmed Pintucked Organic Cotton-Voile Mini Dress
Acne Studios
Satin Maxi Dress
The tie details on this ACNE dress make it a little more interesting.
& Other Stories
Sleeveless Satin Midi Dress
If you’re a soft autumn (like me), this dusty rose hue would look good on you.
SIR The Label
Rioja Halter Scarf Maxi Dress-Black
SIR makes high-quality pieces.
For a billowy silhouette, this midi with a square neck and high empire waist.
Tularosa
Allie Midi Dress
I like the shape of this.
St. Agni
Silk Drape Dress
I’m such a fan of St. Agni.
SIEDRÉS
Exclusive Riviera Fens Jersey Maxi Dress
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