The sartorially inclined tend towards panic around mid-October. Not the existential kind - though she’s never far off - but the creeping sense that the season of sequins, velvet and regret-laced Uber receipts is nearly upon us.
Diaries are filling with invitations that say things like “festive cocktail” or “smart sparkle”, and my calendar is gently suggesting I start thinking about logistics. My wardrobe, however, remains defiantly in denial.
It happens every year: the realisation that the dresses I wore last December have either lost their appeal or, in some cases, vanished entirely. One may be at the bottom of a suitcase from a trip I barely remember. Another was likely borrowed by a friend who now lives in Lisbon and does not believe in postage. So begins the hunt.
But here’s the thing: I want glamour.
I want that elusive brand of polish that whispers elegance. Something that catches the light and implies I may have just come from somewhere better. 'Tis the season for party hopping, after all.
Of course, I’m not about to spend half my rent on a dress I’ll probably stain before the starter. The challenge is finding partywear that looks expensive without actually being expensive. A gold-threaded illusion. A velvet slip with just enough slouch. A shoulder detail that nods to runway styles without seeming like a knock-off.
And yes, it is possible. Because, contrary to popular belief, not every beautiful thing comes with a comma in the price tag. So here it is: the definitive guide to party dresses under £150 that still look like they’ve been smuggled out of a stylist’s pull. Thank me later.
I’ve scoured the seasonal sales so you don’t have to – this is the key time to snap up designer pieces for sample prices. Act fast to avoid regret.
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Aligne Fern Bow Satin Mini Dress
Realised in a structured jacquard reminiscent of a Loewe runway, this statement-making A-line dress from Aligne is the perfect party piece. It was already under £150 at the RRP, but it’s currently on sale for under £80. With side seam pockets, an invisible zip and adorable pink hue, you’d be remiss not to add to basket.
Buy now £74.49, Aligne
Nobody's Child Velvet Mini Tea Dress
Velvet for party season isn’t exactly groundbreaking, but look, it’s a classic for a reason. Undeniably warm and always chic, opt for this wine-red tea dress with its demure boat-neckline and scoop back, which settles into a delicate silk bow. The long sleeves are flattering, and swish perfectly as you reach for an extra glass of red.
Buy now £89.00, M&S
Sister Jane Momento Jacquard Midi Wrap Dress
Modestly midi with glorious puff sleeves in true Sister Jane fashion, this floral jacquard delight is set to be a showstopper throughout the festive season. It’s fully lined and features fastenings inside and outside for added security. Pair with clashing patterns as pictured to bring the drama.
Buy now £95.00, Sister Jane
River Island Black Embellished Bow Velvet Mini Dress
Remarkably similar to a Rebecca Vallance piece, this puff-sleeved, keyhole mini from River Island is bejewelled to utter perfection. With sparkly sheer tights and an outrageous heel, you’ll be the talk of the Christmas party (all good things, obviously).
Buy now £79.00, River Island
ASOS DESIGN Velvet Devore Crew Neck Sleeveless Maxi Dress
It’s hard to believe this two-toned dream is just £60. Whether worn solo with kitten heels and dazzling eye makeup, or underneath an oversized tee for an in-vogue street style look, this sleeveless velvet dress from ASOS is a solid investment in elegance.
Buy now £60.00, ASOS
New Look Brown Animal Print Velvet Bow Mini Dress
Long sleeve, short skirt: it's all about balance. This playful look comes to life after dark - team with opaque tights and high boots to keep winter chill out.
Buy now £23.99, New Look
With Jean Daisy Dress
The seasonal sale at With Jean is gasp-worthy. Save an extra 30 per cent on sale items with code ‘byebye’. This stunning one-shoulder number, which comes adorned with ruffles and a high side slit, has been reduced from £160 to £62, and that’s not including the additional discount on offer.
Buy now £62.00, With Jean
Desigual Dress designed by Mr. Christian Lacroix
As collaborations go, Christian Lacroix x Desigual is a maximalist’s fever dream. This graphic print mini is bold enough on its own, but paired with denim it becomes an art project. Let the dress be the focal point – straight black jeans and simple Mary Janes will stop it overwhelming, while a sharp-shouldered blazer adds structure. Lose the 00s-inspired jeans-under-dress look for an evening event.
Buy now £72.50, Desigual
M&S Autograph Scoop Neck Mini Waisted Dress With Wool
If it's understated elegance you're after, M&S will serve you well. This tailored-looking mini is well in budget, leaving some left for glitzy accessories.
Buy now £100.00, M&S
Bardot Luvia Velour Mini Dress
Are you really telling me you wouldn’t spend £4 more on a dress as devastating as this? Be serious.
Buy now £154.00, Anthropologie
Whistles Purple Hai Velvet Sienna Dress
Alluring and eye-catching, this violet velvet dress from the Hai x Whistles collab is the kind of effortless piece that evokes a model-off-duty vibe. With a slick-back hairstyle, statement jewellery and a luxurious clutch, you’ll look straight out of a fashion week party. Scandi-cool.
Buy now £139.00, Whistles
Massimo Dutti Flowing Satin Midi Dress With Straps
With gorgeously delicate pleating and a lace upper bustier, this silky dress seems haute couture rather than high street. It’s deep mocha/burgundy hue is practically begging to be worn to a sophisticated Christmas soiree.
Buy now £149.00, Massimo Dutti
H&M One-Shoulder Mesh Dress
Leopard print knows how to party. One-shouldered, ruched, and fitted with a dramatic leg slit, this mesh dress from H&M has you covered all season long.
Buy now £27.99, H&M
Mango Sequined Halter Neck Dress
16ARLINGTON who? This halter neck sequin dress from Mango has an inherently luxurious feel – with its Audrey Hepburn-esque neckline and sophisticated sequins.
Buy now £89.00, Mango
Nobody’s Child Black Tie Waist Blazer Mini Dress
Part tailored, part temptress – this blazer dress means business. Pair with sheer tights and kitten heels for maximum boardroom-to-bar efficiency.
Buy now £139.00, Nobody’s Child
Omnes Aurelia Dress in Light Blue
From the sustainability credentials (it’s made from recycled polyester) to the attractive colourway, there is a lot to love about the Aurelia dress. See the lace inserts and exposed back for more proof. Blue is our pick but it also comes in pink, red, brown and black.
Buy now £99.00, Omnes
Stine Goya V Neck Midi Dress - Abstract Embellishment
Before you shout that I’m £6 over budget, it’s worth bearing in mind that this dress is from Stine Goya, and it’s an incredible steal (thank you, mid-season sale). The A-line midi silhouette is perennially flattering – especially when paired with a form-fitting bodice. Plus, the intricate monochrome floral embroidery is worth its weight in gold.
Buy now £156.00, Stine Goya
Kitri Caitlin Carnation Print Mini Dress
I may sound like a broken record, but puff sleeves truly do mean party. The Caitlin silhouette from Kitri is made with viscose Georgette with a wide boat neckline and ruched sides. Wear it for a summer bash, or pair with some statement tights for a winter ‘do.
Buy now £111.00, Kitri
