Holiday entertaining season is upon us! And with events ranging from office gatherings to “black tie optional” (what does that mean, anyway??) soirees, the dress code can vary as widely as a fruit cake recipe. As such, I’m sharing my favorite stylish party dresses for every occasion on your calendar.  And many won’t break the bank! After all, you’ve got more important things to be spending on this holiday season.

Office-Party Appropriate
You can wear this dress all year-long. And navy is such a beautiful color, instead of the standard black that everyone else will likely be wearing at the party. I love the demur shape of this particular dress, but the lace adds a subtly sexy touch.

Rachel Zoe

Formal
A formal occasion is really your opportunity to go all out fancy. I would recommend a long dress for a “Black Tie” event and why not amp up the glam with sparkle and color?! I love the mermaid shape of this particular dress, a classy way of playing up your shape.

Asos

Shimmer
Perfect for a daytime look or a more casual affair, the subtle glimmer isn’t as a much of a statement as full on sparkle. You could even layer this dress over a pair of tights and a pair of booties; taking your look from cubicle to happy hour!

Rebecca Taylor

Full-On Glitter
Truly nothings says party like sequins! I’m loving the silver ombre effect of this dress. While the length may be short, the sleeves keep the look appropriate by not showing too much skin (stick with adage of highlighting one feature…especially when you are likely to be the sparkliest in the room!)

BB Dakota

Maxi
A long dress can be so easy; you can wear comfortable shoes and your legs don’t require hose or a spray tan! I’m loving the golden goddess vibe of this particular dress and, again, it’s a shape and color you could wear to events throughout the year!

Alice + Olivia

Midi
A classically pretty sheath dress in a midi-length will take you far. And I’m obsessing over everything velvet this year (can you tell??). The price point of this stunner won’t set you back, so it’s worth the trendy choice!

Felicity + Coco

Separates
You can get more mileage out of pairing separates. For example, this metallic skirt would look awesome paired with a classic white tee for a more casual event. Likewise, the cropped, boxy tank could be worn with some high-waisted cigarette pants for an evening cocktail event. Three holiday looks in one!

Aidan by Aidan Mattox

Jumpsuit
Jumpsuits are such a unique, comfortable and fun alternative to a holiday dress. My only caution would be drinking too much (as in, having to your the ladies room frequently). You get me??

H&M

Festive
I love a good red dress, really anytime of the year. But the holidays just scream for an opportunity to done this festive color. I’m loving the crochet detailing of this dress and the mock turtleneck pair with the mini hemline keep it out of grandma territory. Leave those ugly sweaters for someone else to wear to the party!

Shoshanna

LBD
Who doesn’t need another black dress in their closet?! I’m loving the retro style of this dress; complete with lace detailing, full skirt and tea-length hemline.

Anthropologie

And don’t forget the finishing touches! I shared my ‘Special Occasion’ prep tips a couple of weeks ago.  Just as important as the dress, are all of the details that make a special look come together!

Don’t forget the perfect shoes…

Stuart Weitzman (40% off!!)

And hair inspo…

Image via Pinterest

Stumped on holiday styling? What are you wearing this holiday season? Please leave a comment.

Thanks for reading and Happy Friday! ~Jenn