20 Best Cocktail Dresses of 2023 for In & Outdoor Receptions

Event season is here—have you found the best cocktail dresses? If the answer is yes, great; we're happy for you. If the answer is no? Don't worry, there is still time. To help streamline your search and break down cocktail attire dress codes for wedding guests, mothers of the bride, and cocktail party attendees alike, we tapped Sofia Richie's stylist, Liat Baruch, for tips on how to pick iconic, internet-breaking options.

First things first: What are the differences between a dress and a cocktail dress? According to Baruch, it's all about the fabric. “A cocktail dress is in between a daytime dress and black-tie,” she says, noting that a deciding factor in the material is to consider what time the event or reception is taking place.

“For daytime, stick to cotton and more casual silks,” Baruch tells Glamour. This could be on a chiffon floral-print wrap dress, an A-line dress, or a slip dress. For the evening, Baruch recommends fabrics that are more refined, like “a pretty silk charmeuse, a nice knit, or a crepe jersey.” She’s partial to party dresses in knit fabrics because they're size-friendly (think petite, tall, and plus sizes) and versatile for year-round wear.

Best Cocktail Dresses 2023:

Each occasion is an excellent time to play with color. Baruch says that, for the most part, there aren't any no-no’s—although black is her cocktail dress color of choice since it's foolproof and available in a variety of styles and silhouettes, including sleeveless knee-length dresses, long-sleeve minis, and midis with high-low hemlines. Complete your look with a sky-high heel and a blazer (great for colder months or blasting AC), plus tights during the winter. (If you're looking for tricky-dress solutions, check out our edits of the best shapewear, skin-friendly boob tapes, and nipple covers.)

In addition to Baruch's pointers, finding the best cocktail dress starts with knowing what you like and how much you have to spend. You can splurge on a party dress at Net-a-Porter, just as you can find the perfect date-night dress at Amazon or even Nordstrom—and that's where we come in. We've rounded up the 20 best cocktail dresses that will work anytime, anywhere, and for every budget.