What are some popular outfits to wear for an after-party?

While you should wear whatever makes you look and feel your best, sparkly mini dresses, simple slip dresses, and little white dresses feel especially fitting for after-party attire. "Brides are opting for less conventional styles, such as shorter dresses or skirt sets that they pair with a platform sneaker after being on their feet all day," says Lloyd. "For those late night after parties, some clients even request pajama sets so that they continue to dance all night in comfort."

What shoes should I wear with my after-party outfit?

This depends entirely on your personal style but we suggest wearing shoes that are comfortable to dance in like block-heels, wedges, flats, and even sneakers .

The 21 Best After-Party Dresses of 2023

While your wedding gown is the most important piece in your bridal wardrobe, your after-party dress will undoubtedly be the most fun. That's because after-party outfits are all about sparkly fabrics, shorter hemlines, and carefree silhouettes. Plus, these party-ready dresses are the perfect way to showcase your personal style while hitting that dance-floor.

"The most important thing to keep in mind is to have fun with this after party look," says Stitch Fix stylist Alicia Lloyd. "It's a time to celebrate and your look should reflect exactly how you feel."

Meet the Expert

Alicia Lloyd is the supervisor of the styling team at Stitch Fix, a personal styling service that sends customers personalized shopping recommendations. They carry both casual clothes and pieces for special events.

We spoke to Lloyd on how to pick this frock and researched the best options based on her advice. When selecting an after-party dress, think about the setting of the festivities and what will take place. You don't want to wear anything that will make you too cold or hot as you enjoy yourself. If you know you'll be tearing it up on the dance floor, opt for a style that won't restrict movement. Now you can showoff your legs in a sparkly mini like Retrofete Mich Dress. Or you can opt for a jumpsuit like ML Monique Lhuillier Doutzen V-Neck Jumpsuit so you can pop a squat without flashing anyone. The styles we found allow for optimal fun while still being stylish and coming in range of sizes and prices.

Whether your after-party is being held at your favorite local bar or under the stars at an outdoor venue, read on for the best after-party dresses for every style and budget.

Our Top Picks

For a Post Black-Tie Wedding:

Bernadette Sacha Dress at Net-a-Porter

Jump to Review

Best Backless:

Michael Costello Zola Mini Dress at Revolve

Jump to Review

Best Budget:

Lulus Ivory Satin Off-the-Shoulder Mini Dress at Lulus

Jump to Review

Best for Dancing:

ASOS DESIGN Mini Dress at Asos

Jump to Review

Most Glam:

ASOS DESIGN Midi Dress Scatter Sequin at Asos

Jump to Review

Best Off-the-Shoulder:

Likely Mini Dress at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Jumpsuit:

ML Monique Lhuillier Doutzen V-Neck Jumpsuit at Anthropologie

Jump to Review

Best Plus-Size:

ASOS LUXE Curve Bardot Mini Dress at Asos

Jump to Review

Best for the Beach:

Farm Rio Cut Out Midi Dress at Farmrio.com

Jump to Review

Best Mini:

Retrofête Mich Sequin Dress at Bhldn

Jump to Review

Sacha off-the-shoulder taffeta mini dress

NET-A-PORTER

View On Net-a-Porter View On Matchesfashion.com View On Saks Fifth Avenue

Size Range: FR 34-44 | Length: Mini | Material: Taffeta

While this midi dress is a bit more formal, it's a great option if you are looking to switch into a look that's dressy and fun after your black-tie wedding. Your guests will likely still be dressed to the nines, so this piece will continue to match the vibe.

Price at time of publish: $370-$508

Revolve

View On Revolve

Size Range: XXS-XL | Length: Mini | Material: Rayon

Channel Hailey Bieber in this backless number. Slick back your hair in a ponytail or bun to show off your backside.

Price at time of publish: $175

Lulus

View On Lulus

Size Range: XS-XL | Length: Mini | Material: Polyester

This satin dress looks way more expensive than it is. As customers say, it makes them feel like a greek goddess.

Price at time of publish: $82

Courtesy of ASOS

View On Asos

Size Range: 0-14 | Length: Mini | Material: Blend

There is perhaps no better dress to dance in than one that's made entirely from cascading fringe. That's because a swishy fringe frock not only screams after-party, it also moves when you move.

Price at time of publish: $110

ASOS

View On Asos

Size Range: 0-14 | Length: Midi | Material: Polyester

This dazzling long-sleeve gown feels very Old Hollywood glamour. Accessorize with a sparkly clutch and a pair of statement-making earrings, and a bold red lip for added drama.

Price at time of publish: $140

Courtesy of Shopbop

View On Amazon View On Revolve View On Lyst.com

Size Range: 00-14 | Length: Mini | Material: Heavyweight, non-stretch crepe

This off-the-shoulder midi dress is the perfect piece to switch into at the end of the night. The pleated chiffon sleeves give the dress an elegant bridal touch.

Price at time of publish: $228

ML Monique Lhuillier Doutzen V-Neck Jumpsuit

BHLDN

View On Anthropologie

Size Range: 0-18 | Length: Floor-length | Material: Charmeuse

Every bride-to-be needs a jumpsuit in their wedding wardrobe. They're versatile, chic, and incredibly easy to dance in. This particular style features thigh-high slits and a deep-v neckline for a super sultry vibe.

Price at time of publish: $220

ASOS

View On Asos

Size Range: 12-26 | Length: Mini | Material: Polyester

Turn up the volume with this adorable, bubble sleeve mini dress. The sheer pink shade and zebra-like jacquard makes it extra fierce.

Price at time of publish: $120

Stitch Fix

View On Farmrio.com View On Saks Fifth Avenue View On Stitchfix.com

Size Range: XS-XL | Length: Midi | Material: Viscose

"For a beach wedding, this breezy Farm Rio frock is the ideal after party dress, allowing you to feel comfortable yet elegant into the late night hours," says Lloyd. The brand says it runs big, so consider sizing down for the best fit.

Price at time of publish: $200

Courtesy of Net-a-Porter

View On Bhldn View On Net-a-Porter

Size Range: XXS-XXL | Length: Mini | Material: Nylon

No dress is more party-ready than a sparkly mini dress. All eyes will be on you as you hit the dancefloor in this silverly leg-baring number.

Price at time of publish: $485

Revolve

View On Revolve

Size Range: XS-L | Length: Midi | Material: Polyester

Looking for an after-party ensemble that feels sophisticated and fun? This feather-trimmed dress should do just the trick. Delicate gold hoops and barely-there sandals make for chic finishing touches.

Price at time of publish: $200

Courtesy of Farfetch

View On Farfetch.com

Size Range: 34 FR-38 FR | Length: Mini | Material: Plastic, Brass

Shine bright in this jaw-dropping dress, featuring mirror-like, sequins that are sure to reflect (pun intended!) your playful and statement-making style.

Price at time of publish: $3,045

ASOS

View On Asos

Size Range: 0-10 | Length: Maxi | Material: Viscose

Finding a floor-length gown that isn't too long can be hard when you're petite. But this one is made specially for shorter frames. The thigh-high slit and one shoulder design make it extra flattering.

Price at time of publish: $79.10

Courtesy of Matchesfashion

View On Matchesfashion.com View On Mytheresa.com

Size Range: UK 4-14 | Length: Mini | Material: Taffeta

Sophisticated crystal embellishments frame this structured cupcake dress, for a look that's at once glamorous and architectural. The eye-catching neckline and hemline ensure you'll stand out in every photo.

Price at time of publish: $364

View On Revolve View On Net-a-Porter

Size Range: 2-10 | Length: Mini | Material: Silk

We love this softy and swingy Zimmermann dress for the bride whose aesthetic leans classic with a twist. Pair with your favorite block heels or mules for a perfectly polished party look.

Price at time of publish: $625

Reformation

View On Reformation

Size Range: 0-12 | Length: Floor Length | Material: Silk

As Lloyd says, some brides are stepping into pajama sets for the after party and this silk set gives the same effortless vibe as your favorite PJs. For the unfussy bride who wants a laidback after-party ensemble, this two-piece set is a decidedly chic choice. Since these casual separates don't feel overly bridal, you'll get a lot of mileage out of them long after you say "I do."

Price at time of publish: $428

Courtesy of BHLDN

View On Bhldn View On Bhldn

Size Range: 0-12 | Length: Mini | Material: Taffeta

Go bold with this flirty two-piece set from LoveShackFancy. You'll be twirling on the dance night all night long.

Price at time of publish: $210

Courtesy of Moda Operandi

View On Amazon View On Maygelcoronel.com

Size Range: One size, Petite Extended | Length: Maxi | Material: 78% polyamide, 22% elastane

Not all party dresses have to be covered in sequins and embellishments. If you're throwing a destination wedding, this lightweight dress, featuring an alluring cut-out, feels especially fitting for a warm-weather affair.

Price at time of publish: $420

Courtesy of Shopbop

View On Nordstrom View On Farfetch.com View On Shopbop.com

Size Range: 34-44 | Length: Mini | Material: Cotton

Cutouts are all the rage and this one keeps it classy with modest holes on the sides embellished with crystal bows. Made from cotton, this mini dress is a great option to stay cool, especially for a summer wedding, if you know you're going to dancing the night away.

Price at time of publish: $1,240

Revolve

View On Revolve

Size Range: XS-XL | Length: Mini | Material: Polyester

When it comes to your after-party look, you'll want to make sure you choose an option that's not only stylish but functional, too. Enter: the bridal romper. They're fashionable, fun, and perfect for cutting loose on the dancefloor.

Price at time of publish: $361

Courtesy of BHLDN

View On Bhldn

Size Range: 0-16 | Length: Mini | Material: Mikado

Ballet-core is all the rage in bridal fashion right now, so embrace the look with trend with with this Watters mini dress. The bubble hem and the lace-up back are a unique after-party touch.

Price at time of publish: $495

What to Look for in an After-Party Dress

Silhouette

As you dance the night away, you don't want to be too cold or hot. For warmer temps, go for shorter silhouettes and breathable materials like cotton. If your party is taking place outside where it might be chilly, go for a jumpsuit or a longer dress.

Style

"Envision how you want to look and feel in this moment, and select your styles based on that," says Lloyd.

Shimmering mini dresses in allover sequins and beading are a classic choice for late-night celebrations. Not only are they eye-catching, but they offer the chance to highlight your playful side, especially if you wore a simple or more conservative wedding dress. If pared-back minimalism is more your speed, ultra-chic slip dresses in bridal white and glimmering gold feel polished and timeless. For a bolder after-party moment, go for dresses in bright, poppy colors or jumpsuits with daring necklines.

Mobility

The after-party is all about dancing and letting loose, which can be hard to do if your dress is constricting in any way. So, it might be best to avoid stiff off-the-shoulder dresses that prevent you from raising your arms or tight floor-length gowns that make dancing difficult.

FAQ

What are some popular outfits to wear for an after-party?

While you should wear whatever makes you look and feel your best, sparkly mini dresses, simple slip dresses, and little white dresses feel especially fitting for after-party attire.
"Brides are opting for less conventional styles, such as shorter dresses or skirt sets that they pair with a platform sneaker after being on their feet all day," says Lloyd. "For those late night after parties, some clients even request pajama sets so that they continue to dance all night in comfort."
What shoes should I wear with my after-party outfit?

This depends entirely on your personal style but we suggest wearing shoes that are comfortable to dance in like block-heels, wedges, flats, and even sneakers.

Why Trust Brides

Contributing writer Sophie Moore is a former fashion editor at Brides and is an expert in all things bridal attire, from couture wedding gowns to the perfect "something blue" accessory. She researches and sources the best fashion items for brides, grooms, wedding guests, bridal parties, and more. For this article, we interviewed Stitch Fix stylist Alicia Lloyd for tips on how to select and style an after-party dress.

The 17 Best Wedding Reception Dresses of 2023

The 21 Best Wedding After-Party Dresses of 2023

For a Post Black-Tie Wedding

Bernadette Sacha Dress

Best Backless

Michael Costello x REVOLVE Zola Mini Dress

Best Budget

Lulus Always Celebrating Ivory Satin Off-the-Shoulder Mini Dress

Best for Dancing

ASOS DESIGN Embellished Fringed Mini Dress

Most Glam

ASOS DESIGN Midi Dress with Batwing Sleeve and Wrap Waist in Scatter Sequin

Best Off-the-Shoulder

Likely Paz Dress

Best Jumpsuit

ML Monique Lhuillier Doutzen V-Neck Jumpsuit

Best Plus-Size

ASOS LUXE Curve Bubble Bardot Mini Dress

Best for the Beach

Farm Rio White Cut Out Midi Dress

Best Mini

Retrofête Mich Sequin Dress

Best with Feathers

ELLIATT Harley Feather Trim Dress

Most Dazzling

Paco Rabanne Sequin Chain-Disc Mini Dress

Best Petite

Vesper Petite One Shoulder Maxi Dress

Best Mini

Self-Portrait Crystal-Trimmed Mini Dress

Best Long Sleeve

Zimmermann Silk-Charmeuse Wrap Mini Dress

Best Separates

Reformation Madrid Silk Set

Best Two-Piece Look

LoveShackFancy Vima Top & Roisen Skirt

For a Destination Wedding

Maygel Coronel Blanca Reversible Ruffled Cutout Maxi Dress

Best Cutout

MACH & MACH Cutout Little Mini Dress with Crystal Bows

Best Romper

Elliatt Jimena Set

Best Ballet-Core Look

Watters Cleo Dress

What to Look for in an After-Party Dress

Silhouette

Style

Mobility

Why Trust Brides

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