The Best Holiday Dresses

Take on two of the season’s strongest trends with this lace-detailed black-and-white dress. Feminine and refined, it creates a sleek silhouette from the waist down, while the lace detail around the neck draws the eye up. Try a subtle but shiny earring, and a bracelet or two. A black suede or patent leather pump is the perfect footnote, and hair swept up in a French twist tops off this sophisticated party look.

To buy: H&M, $50

Tap into the spirit of the season with this deep green midi dress. Sleek and sexy, this slim-fit piece is just the right amount of naughty and nice, making it a perfect day-to-night pick. Work a 9-to-5 look by throwing a black blazer over it and pairing with heeled lace-up oxfords. After hours, lose the jacket, trade the oxfords for high-heeled black booties, and load up with a mix of metal chains, bangles and stackable rings.

To buy: Topshop, $56

If all those hours of cardio in 2012 have finally paid off, celebrate the results in this sultry strapless red velvet dress. Leaving just enough to the imagination, this knockout number will standout in a sea of LBDs at any soirée. Complete the package by bejeweling your neck with a rhinestone statement necklace and elevating your stature with a sophisticated black pump. But, be warned: You may find yourself under the mistletoe more often than not.

To buy: Mango, $60

Calling all frill seekers: Look no further than this organza dress that’s froufrou in the most fabulous way. The fitted top boasts an intricate 3-D floral design, and the sheer skirt has an asymmetrical hemline that reveals just the right amount of leg. But it also offers a sexy surprise with its cutout back. Add a little edge with gunmetal metallic high-heel sandals and a cropped black leather biker jacket.

To buy: Miss Selfridge, $85

This season's designers have gone cuckoo for rococo, and this brocade dress is an easy way to tap into this opulent trend. The drop hem style makes for a flattering silhouette, and the of-the-moment oxblood hue feels especially right for the holidays. Play up the opulence by piling on faux jeweled necklaces and bracelets and slipping into a gilded pair of high-heel, strappy sandals.

To buy: Oasis, $105

MORE: Cable Knits for the Season

Hosting a holiday party? Go for understated glam in this black maxi dress. The fluid fabric skims over the body for a flawless, flattering fit. Load up your wrists with edgy bangles in dark metals or go for one fabulous statement cuff. As for your feet, if you’re not leaving the house, all you need is a fresh pedicure, preferably with a metallic sequin party-ready polish.

To buy: La Garçonne, $123

You’ll rival even the brightest of holiday lights when you step out in Mango’s contrasted sequin and velvet dress. The straight cut and cap sleeve keep it demure while the all-over sequins guarantee dazzle. This piece requires no additional bling. Simply slip it on with a pair of black high heels—a pump, sandal or bootie all work—grab an oversize black clutch and you’re good to go.

To buy: Mango, $130

Metallic was rampant on the fall/winter runways, and this stretch jersey dress is a shining example. Legendary designer Vivienne Westwood has masterfully mixed sexy, sophisticated and chic into one super luxe number. The metallic bronze hue is bold but not brash, and the elegant and expertly placed draping ensures a figure-flattering fit.

To buy: Vivienne Westwood, $170

MORE: DIY Holiday Décor

Feeling bold? This revved-up red silk organza dress is certain to be a showstopper. The silhouette may be simple—not to mention flattering for many figures—but the captivating crimson color, sumptuous silk fabric and the exaggerated shoulder give it star quality. Wear it with a chandelier earring cocktail, a ring, and a black or nude pump for a holiday look that’s a guaranteed head-turner.

To buy: Topshop, $320

This structured lace dress from Reiss puts a modern spin on the classic shift style. The gorgeous purple hue and detailed lace fabric gives this party-ready frock a one-two chic punch. Long, lean and lengthening, you’ll feel dazzling zipping into this and a pair of sky-high heels. Go for vintage-inspired jewelry like pearls and rhinestones, but feel free to add one fabulous cocktail ring as well.

To buy: Reiss, $320