Looking for what to wear to all those post-quarantine parties? Or perhaps to an upcoming wedding or black tie gala? Our correspondent Julie Chang Murphy has curated a list of 15 luxury party dresses to wear to big events in 2021, including statement frocks that are perfect for the guest at any number of weddings, galas, and birthday celebrations.
15 luxury statement party dresses to wear this year in 2021
This summer we are welcoming the party frock back into our closets. And not a moment too soon. Love is in the air as postponed weddings are finally happening. Friends are making up for lost time by going all out on birthday parties. If ever there was a time to embrace the sheer giddiness and cathartic energy of fashion, it’s now.
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And looking at all the sartorial choices out there, the only fashion faux pas this season is wearing something boring. Otherwise, anything goes!
Party dresses to wear to big events in 2021, including statement frocks perfect for weddings, galas, and birthday celebrations.
Think dresses with sexy and shrewd cutouts. Embellished mini dresses with feathers. Boudoir-inspired slip dresses. These will be the dresses to remember in years to come when people ask, “What did you wear to your first post-quarantine party?”
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Ahead, 15 statement dresses that suit the exuberant mood as we learn how to party again. Luxury party dresses to wear as a guest to big events in 2021, including statement frocks for weddings, galas, and birthday celebrations.
15 luxury statement party dresses to wear this year in 2021
1. feathers, lamé, and sequins
A little black dress is timeless but let’s mark this occasion with something outside of our comfort zone. How about Ganni’s dreamy feather trimmed dress ($720) with metallic brocade? It’s a forgiving silhouette so you can be comfortable all evening and it has pockets. This opulent 70s inspired frock ($1,397) from Norwegian designer, Dundas, is fabricated in luxe silk lamé. The shimmering peridot conjures halcyon days (and nights). Halpern’s whimsical shift ($714) is high-glamour with a combo of sequin zebra print and blooming florals. Go and get that party started!
Luxury party dresses to wear as a guest to big events in 2021, including statement frocks for weddings, galas, and birthday celebrations. Courtesy Photo.
2. cutting corners
Cutout dresses were the standout trend worn at the Oscars earlier this year. And now us mere mortals can finally channel our inner Zendaya and Carey Mulligan at the next event. Alice and Olivia’s floaty emerald green maxi ($550) is an elevated choice that shows a hint of skin in a Grecian gown inspired silhouette. We are obsessed with Cynthia Rowley’s Cinderella-esque organza dress ($450) with cutouts at the waist. The puff sleeves and chunky grosgrain bow lend an element of youth and innocence. If you’re going to fully embrace the sexiness of a cutout dress, reach for Cult Gaia’s woven knit maxi ($458) which highlights all your curves.
Luxury statement party dresses for 2021 including weddings, galas, and birthday events. Courtesy Photo.
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3. color wars
When in doubt, go for the color. It’s the most impactful way to inject a feeling of excitement and positivity. Cynthia Rowley’s off-the-shoulder silk dress ($545) is sun-drenched lemon perfection. The voluminous relaxed cut works for casual affairs but can be instantly dressed up and styled as a sumptuous gown for a wedding. If, like us, you have too many favorite colors — go for all of them in Zimmermann’s enchanting floral gown ($650) that captures the lush and romantic quality of summer’s gardens. There’s something about a pink and orange color block that just screams fun. Tanya Taylor’s smocked dress ($495) is made from a lightweight cotton-blend and is practically neon. It’s a whole mood and we’re here for it.
Luxury statement party dresses for 2021 including weddings, galas, and birthday events. Courtesy Photo.
4. slip into something more comfortable
Minimalists rejoice. The iconic 90s slip dress is back and more versatile than ever. Play up the boudoir vibes with barely there sandals or be a bit more subversive with a t-shirt and “ugly” sandals. Vince’s silvery satin slip ($295) epitomizes effortless elegance on a hot summer night. Or perhaps you’re in a kitschy and cheeky mood, in which case, this Fleur du Mal strawberry print dress ($325) is waiting for you. Made with silk charmeuse and cut on the bias, it will hug every juicy curve. If you’re looking for a non-clingy version of a slip dress, L’agence’s swinging trapeze shaped dress ($375) will have you twirling. Comfortable and glamorous — can’t beat that!
Luxury statement party dresses for 2021 including weddings, galas, and birthday events. Courtesy Photo.
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5. black tie affair
Weddings and galas are back and we’re RSVP’ing yes to all of it. Rasario’s embellished dress has all the charm of a vintage gown with its swathes of tulle, corset-style bodice and tiered skirt. We’d pair with heels in a pop color to add an element of surprise. And after a year and half of blah, who wouldn’t want to feel like a princess for a day? Monique Lhuillier’s embroidered silk and tulle gown ($16,093) would make anyone feel like they’re in their own version of Bridgerton. Jason Wu, who has designed gowns for Michelle Obama, has created this stunning and sophisticated off-the-shoulder midi dress ($1,195). It’s an instant classic.
Luxury statement party dresses for 2021 including weddings, galas, and birthday events. Courtesy Photo.
statement party dresses perfect for the rest of 2021
That’s our take on 15 of the best luxury party dresses to wear to big events in 2021, including statement frocks perfect for being a guest at u[coming weddings, galas, and birthday celebrations for the remainder of the year and beyond.
It’s time to make your debut back into society. Go forth you gorgeous creature and party on!
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For access to insider ideas and information on the world of luxury, sign up for our Dandelion Chandelier Newsletter here. And see luxury in a new light.
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Crediting her training as a cultural anthropologist at Wellesley College, Julie has immersed herself in various industries in the last 15 years including fashion design, event planning, and fitness. Julie lives in New York where she loves trying every ramen and dumpling restaurant with her husband and three children. She finds joy in bold prints, biographies of fierce women, kickboxing. And spending way too long finding the perfect polish color to express her mood.
