Dress Codes for Parties: Styles for Every Occasion

Understanding the different dress codes for parties around today can be confusing. If you are new to the world of fashion or trying to navigate between casual and semi-formal styles, you might not know where to start.

Fortunately, our style guide below gives you insight into some versatile dresses that may be appropriate for every occasion, semi-formal or casual. Read on to get your style inspiration.

Versatile Dress Styles for Every Occasion

The following dress styles are versatile and flattering on virtually every figure type, so you can be sure that choosing one of these outfits is both occasion-appropriate and flattering.

Simple Black Dresses

Style 54776 is the perfect LBD.

The little black dress is a style icon for a reason – this outfit is versatile, flattering, and well-suited to a number of different occasions.

You can wear your black dress out on a date night or an evening with friends, but you could also dress it up and wear it to a wedding or a family holiday gathering. No matter where you are, a black dress is sure to suit the occasion.

Colorful Prints

Sherri-Hill-party_dress
Style 53928 in pink/multi

Colorful prints are a great choice for individuals who want some unique flair on their dress, but they want to stay away from floral designs.

Dresses with colorful or geometric designs are flattering and eye-catching, and you can be sure you’ll stand out and make an entrance at any party, cocktail event, or gathering you attend.

The Strapless Look

Style 54424 in light blue

Strapless styles are always popular and this elegant neckline is a great way to add a personal style touch to your dress.

Selecting a long or short strapless dress allows you to accessorize with jewelry that dresses up your dress if needed and add stylish hairstyles to enhance your overall silhouette.

Backless Dresses

Style 55013 in emerald

Backless dresses come in a variety of colors and styles, and they may even have fun geometric or floral patterns on them.

Backless dresses can be long or short in length, and they are suited for any occasion where a semi-formal or even a casual dress is required. This flattering style looks good on most people and allows you to add a little bit of sexiness to your look.

Sparkling Embellishments

Style 54416 in ivory/black/gold

Sequin and sparkling embellishments add eye-catching style to your dress, and this look is great for every occasion. You can wear a dress with sequins or sparkles to a nightclub, a get-together with friends, a family gathering, or even a semi-formal or formal party.

You can find dresses with this embellishment in either long or short lengths and in a variety of base styles and colors.

Slip Dresses

Sherri-Hill-party_dress
Style 54237 in blush/pink

Slip dresses are crafted from thinner materials, and they tend to hang long and somewhat loose. You may find a slip dress with spaghetti straps or in a strapless style, or ones that have a long sleeve look.

This style fits every occasion, especially if you choose a pastel or simple color and use accessories to dress it up or down.

The Ruffle Style

Ruffles are a great way to accessorize any short or long dress. Ruffles typically add volume to the skirt of a dress for a more dramatic style.

For a party look that suits semi-formal or more casual occasions, choose a dress with ruffle embellishments in a style that flatters your figure most.

Versatile Dresses for Style Ease

Adhering to multiple different dress codes for parties can be exhausting unless you have one or two versatile dresses that can be worn on any occasion.

Our guide to party dress codes gives you inspiration for finding the perfect dress for any party, wedding reception, night out with friends, or date in style. Browse our collection for more eye-catching and versatile styles.