What exactly is a summer cocktail dress? Sure, it can be a sparkly mini, a sleek slip, or a backless printed poplin. But in actuality, cocktail dressing is more of a mood than a set aesthetic. All you really need in your summer wardrobe arsenal is a dress that looks good for sipping palomas by the pool or dirty martinis on a rooftop.
Tatiana Hambro Arader, editorial director of Moda Operandi, tells BAZAAR that the warm weather party dress is all about experimentation. "For me, a summer cocktail party is nothing if not a great excuse to push the boundaries on your personal style. Something about heat encourages experimentalism, and there's usually no formal dress code (nor bride!) to appease," she says.
However, this season, Hambro Arader is leaning into glamorous minimalism for upcoming festivities. "I'm in the mood for a fresh glamour—so nothing that feels too heavy or overdone, yet still makes a big impact," she says. "It's sort of the cocktail-ready partner to the understated trend happening right now." Quiet luxury is certainly trending this season, and Hambro Arader captures the mood by encouraging the question, "What would Shiv Roy's cooler cousin wear? Something chic, but definitely less serious than pantsuit."
The key to nailing this vibe, she says, "is choosing pieces with an inherent lightness or ease to them, a sense of feeling unburdened. This can manifest as soft pastels (I'm loving ice blue, powder pink, and pistachio) or silhouettes that have (expertly-acquired) simple lines, like Prada's A-line mini." After a few years of over-the-top maximalism, sticking to tried and true silhouettes, in high-quality fabrics, seems to be the mood this season.
Ahead, shop 20 dresses that will make summer cocktail-ing even more of a party. (And yes, cocktail-ing can be a verb).
Related article: Duchess Meghan Updates The Cocktail Dress In A Gorgeous Off-The-Shoulder Gown
Photo: Moda Operandi
THE SLINKY MAXI
Bevza Zirky Satin Maxi Dress
"This Ukrainian brand is a longtime Moda favourite for clean, minimal lines," Hambro Arader remarks. "I love how she's contrasted the icy, crisp silk with a textured, naive, crochet floral. Just enough to make you look twice." Available in sizes XS-L, style this maxi dress with minimal hoops and lace-up sandals for a polished cocktail look.
THE DRAPED MINI
Jaquemus La Robe Bahia Mini Dress
Jacquemus' robe dresses are about as effortless as they come. A core silhouette for the brand (ranging in sizes 32-46 FR), the long sleeves, draped front, and mini length exude summer sexiness. Wear with an architectural earring, muted heeled mule, and mini bag to lean into the designer's signature, French girl on holiday aesthetic.
THE FLUID HALTER
Khaite Marisol Halterneck Midi Dress
Khaite's clean and classic shapes, made from the best fabrics, are the definition of quiet luxury. This soft jersey halter neck dress is simple and as comfortable to the touch as it is breathable. This ultra-flattering style (find it in sizes XS-XL) was designed with a fitted top that flares at the waist into a full, pleated skirt beautifully. Slick your hair back, add a bold lip, pair with a strappy sandal and you're good to go.
Photo: Moda Operandi
THE SATIN MINI
Prada Satin Mini Dress
"The blind logo, the shade, the shape... this mini is playful, sophisticated, and so timeless all at once," Hambro Arader says. "It's a perfect blend of Raf and Mrs. Prada and everyone who loves showing off their legs should be adding it to cart." This satin, A-line mini was made to be seen. Snap this one up now (available in sizes 36-46 IT) and pair with kitten heels for a sweet approach.
THE SUBDUED CUTOUT
Matteau Cutout Floral-Print Maxi Dress
Summer is the perfect time to play with cutouts. This playful, cotton-poplin sundress is ideal for a casual, poolside drinks or a backyard garden party under the stars. Available in sizes 1-5 (equivalent to 2-10 US), lean into the easiness of the silhouette with heeled, lace-up sandals and a statement earring to add a little pizzazz for evening.
Photo: Moda Operandi
THE TEXTURED COLUMN
Emilia Wickstead Hattie Strapless Jacquard Gown
"I have a wedding in England in July. Cue: Emilia Wickstead's strapless Hattie column gown," Hambro Arader says. "Elegance and drama without resorting to shouty tricks—which is exactly the vibe I'm going for." The tailored silhouette (in sizes 6-12 UK), sumptuous textured fabric and dramatic train, make it a win for summer weddings, galas, and more. Add a naked heel and simple earrings, to really let the dress do the talking.
THE LACY SLIP
SIR Willa Silk Maxi Dress
Slip dresses are an obvious choice for summer soirées, but the lace frills and subtle cutouts on this silky number, add an unexpected twist that feels fresh. Take your pick from a delightful pale yellow colour (seen here) or plain black, in 0-8 US. Add minimal, pearl drop earrings and a fancier flat sandal to complete the look to a tee.
THE FLIRTY MINI
Cinq à Sept Aimes Silk Slipdress
NORDSTROMBLOOMINGDALE'SSAKS FIFTH AVENUE
When it is too hot to think, throw this silky mini dress (available in 0-14 US) on for a one-and-done look that screams sophistication. It won't hug skin too closely on blistering nights, so you can rest easy and relax. Rhinestones along the neckline and straps add a little something sparkly that doesn't feel too fussy. Pair with a metallic, lace-up heel and let your hair down for a night out.
Photo: Moda Operandi
THE OMBRÉ STUNNER
Significant Other Karli Ombré Maxi Slip Dress
Inspired by the sunset, this statement-making dress will certainly turn heads at your next big event calling for cocktail attire. Designed with a strapped, bustier silhouette, the luxurious satin fabric makes the perfect backdrop for the summery ombré print. Available in sizes 2-10 US, this mid-calf length dress pairs best with a nude heel and personal jewelry.
THE SWEET TAKE
Simkhai Roberta Fossil Crochet Maxi Dress
If the dress code calls for cocktail, this mellow yellow maxi checks all the right boxes. A sweetheart neckline with thicker straps allows those who want to wear a bra, to do so seamlessly. Texture play on the bust line adds an interesting twist to the full, silky skirt. Try it out for yourself (in size 0-12 US) for your next wedding with a slip-on shoe, chain jewelry and a structured mini bag.
THE BUDGET-FRIENDLY
Reformation Zenni Satin Mini Dress
Show off some leg in a satin mini that has been tailored to perfection, for a nipped and tucked fit that is flattering on all body types. The chocolate brown colour way is an unexpected tone that will allow you to trade summer black for something a bit more richer. Pair this mini (available in size 0-12) back to a satin bag and embellished flat sandal, to keep things on the refined side.
THE PRINTED MIDI
Silvia Tcherassi Roseanne Striped Cut-Out Dress
Uncomplicated shapes are key for summer cocktail dressing. This sleeveless option (in XS-XXL) boasts a special cutout design, complete with a ruched bust line and little tie. The organic striped pattern gives a summery twist that is perfect for an outdoor cocktail party. Wear yours with bold, gold jewelry and a summery sandal (either heel or flat) for a relaxed feel.
THE MESH MAXI
House of Aama Open-Back Mesh Maxi Dress
House of Aama's mesh pieces are ideal for blistering heat, sipping drinks at sunset, when you want to be wearing next to nothing. If you're bold, try it over a triangle bralette and high-waisted brief, and if you prefer a little more coverage, a nude slip underneath will work well. Find it in sizes 0-12 US, exclusively at Moda.
THE STRAPLESS BUSTIER
Alejandra Alonso Rojas Strapless Silk Slip Dress
Less is more when it comes to hot-weather dressing. A strapless shape that is both airy and supportive will make getting dressed in the heat a breeze. This ruched bustier was designed with a soft, internal corset made from cotton, so it won't poke, prod and cause excess friction. Grab a drink (rosé anyone?) that matches the hand-dyed gradient tones of this stunning slip.
THE SUSTAINABLE LBD
Ninety Percent Bythos Midi Dress
You can never go wrong with a LBD. This one (shoppable in XXS-XL) has beautiful pleats and gathers, as well as a seriously sexy cutout front and back. The best part? The stretch-TENCEL Lyocell fabric is completely sustainable. Add a minimal choker necklace and black sandals for a comfortable yet refined take on cocktail dressing.
THE VINTAGE-INSPIRED
Dôen Ambrosia Dress
Dôen's best-selling Ambrosia dress nods to the past, while remaining completely modern. A square-neckline with tiny spaghetti straps complements the fixed bow detail and all over bodice smocking. The full, ankle-grazing skirt keeps things in the now and from feeling too retro. Available in XS-XL, slip into this gauzy number with a pair of flat sandals and tousled hair for the ultimate Cali girl vibes.
THE STRUCTURED MIDI
Cult Gaia Muna Woven Midi Dress
Clean seams with a bit of off-the-shoulder flair give this dress the depth it needs to be a major hit at your next summer party. Draped by hand, the soft pleats and puffed sleeves are meant to resemble palm leafs. Since the dress is such a statement, keep accessories to a minimum, making the dress front and center. An ankle strap shoe, hoops and a simple bangle are all you need to finish things off. Grab yours in size 0-12 US.
THE FLORAL SHEATH
Rachel Gilbert Floral-Print Dress
If you favor a print, just keep the shape simple, to truly lean into the minimalist vibes of the season. This knitted tank dress (available in XS-L) from Rachel Gilbert is comfortable and uncomplicated, featuring wide shoulder straps and a shape that hugs the body just so. Dress it up for a cocktail dress code with a bold heel, straw clutch bag and dangling earring.
THE MODERN MINI
Bernadette Kim Taffeta Mini Dress
Don't be fooled by the demure front on this bold, taffeta mini dress. Take a peek at the back that reveals an exposed back that is nothing short of tantalizing. Made from a structured taffeta, it is all about the tailored cut on this dreamy orange option. You'll find it in sizes 34-46 EU.
THE COTTON MIDI
Tove Carine Cut-Out Dress
Cotton can be worn for cocktail attire. Just look to Tove's signature draping and construction, to see how dressed up poplin can really be. The cut-out midsection adds some alluring detail, while the full skirt is feminine and understated. Whether you are a maximalist and prefer to accessorize with something more over-the-top, or a minimalist and love a simple shoe and jewelry moment, you can't go wrong with the extras. Shop in sizes 34-42 FR.
This article originally appeared in Harper's BAZAAR US.