The 20 Best Engagement Party Dresses of 2021

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couple kissing — Photo by Carrie Patterson Photography

Your engagement party is the first of many wedding-related events and serves as the perfect opportunity to set the tone for not only your bridal style but also your wedding style to come.

Thinking of a destination wedding in the tropics? Opt for dresses crafted from breezy linen and cotton for your engagement party look. A modern wedding in the city more your speed? There are plenty of chic and striking dresses to make a powerful statement. Or, maybe your wedding will have more of a minimalist aesthetic? We've got you covered with simple slips and sleek styles.

Set the vibe for the rest of your wedding wardrobe (you still have the shower, bachelorette, rehearsal, and, of course, wedding day to contend with) with our curated round-up of the best engagement party dresses for every bridal style and budget.

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Retroféte Tilly Belted Sequined Chiffon Maxi Dress

engagement dress — Courtesy of Net-a-Porter

Give them glitz and glam in this sparkling sequined maxi dress. With a thigh-high split and a delicate belt that cinches you at the waist, all eyes will definitely be on you.

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WAYF Puff Sleeve Lace Dress

We love a puff sleeve and this lovely lace style from WAYF is no exception. This mini dress would be right at home at a backyard bash or a chic city venue.

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Self-Portrait Off-the-Shoulder Lace Dress

This one shoulder lace look is at once dressed up and effortless. Wear yours with sandals for a more casual vibe or go with bright accessories for a pop of color.

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Erdem Crystal-Embellished Chantilly Lace Dress

This Erdem dress is the epitome of elegance and features unexpected details like black ribbon shoulder bows and glittering crystal embellishments. Sweep your hair up to showcase your shoulders and sophisticated neckline.

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Markarian Pearl Embroidered Midi Dress

For brides looking for allover embellishments that feel elevated and not cheesy, this style flocked with shimmering pearls is an exquisite option for you. Keep accessories minimal and let the dress do all the talking.

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Self-Portrait Open Back Lace Dress

The back of your dress is just as important as the front, especially when it comes to stunning at all angles in your engagement party photos. This sweet Self-Portrait midi dress features a gorgeous open back complete with a ribbon tie.

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Rime Arodaky Embroidered Tulle and Crepe Mini Dress

We are loving this combination of delicate flutter sleeves, floral embroidery, and a crisp minimal skirt. This style would be right at home at an engagement party set in a romantic garden or at a chic city venue.

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Sachin & Babi Bow Detail Mini Dress

Show off those shoulders and legs in this strapless mini dress finished with a bold bow at the bodice. This tailored number is not only flattering, it's bra-friendly, to boot!

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Brock Silk Organza Maxi Dress

For brides planning to throw a black-tie wedding, this stunning silk-organza style is a gorgeous choice for a lavish affair. Wear yours with shoulder-grazing earrings and metallic pumps.

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Self Portrait Guipure Lace Dress

engagement party dress — Courtesy of MyTheresa

For a formal look that feels effortless and laidback, opt for a relaxed silhoette in a fabric that feels special and elevated like this Self-Portrait style crafted from Guipure lace.

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Lilli Pulitzer Jacquard Fit & Flare Dress

If your personal style lends itself towards a more classic or traditional aesthetic, consider an unfussy yet structured style like this Lilly Pulitzer frock. Not only is a fit and flare silhouette supremely flattering, this style also features an essential detail: pockets.

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Baacal Mirror Kaftan

dressengagement party — Courtesy of 11 Honoré

We are firm believes that brides should wear whatever they feel their best in, so if bridal white isn't for you, experiment with color or go for a design like this one in black chiffon.

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Alix NYC X REVOLVE Slip Dress

For the unfussy and minimalist bride, a slip dress is a complete no brainer for any special occasion. Wow in this elegant delicate one-shoulder dress complete with a soft cowl back.

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Whistles Adelaide One-Shoulder Dress

engagement part dress — Courtesy of Whistles

This gorgeous gown feels totally Grecian and utterly romantic. For brides throwing an engagement party in the summer, this style is perfect for a garden or seaside celebration.

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Nookie Detachable Bow Train Mini Dress

Your engagement party kicks of the first of many celebrations so why not go for a statement-making dress that will leave a lasting impression? This versatile style features a detachable train, perfect for when the party turns into late-night dancing.

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English Factory Cotton Embroidered Maxi Dress

This light and airy number is crafted from 100 percent cotton making it a comfortable and stylish choice for summer engagement party celebrations. Pair yours with wedges and dewy makeup.

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Bardot Strapless Mini Dress with Ruffles

Fun and frilly, this mini dress is perfect for the bride-to-be who is looking for something short and flirty. We even love this style for a reception or afterparty dress.

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Marina Moscone Sleeveless Twist Dress

This stunning rich statin dress features a cut-out front complete with a glittering band that's like built-in jewelry for your dress. If you're throwing a formal engagement party, this look is a no brainer.

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Alexis Long-Sleeve Lace Mini Dress

We are loving this 70's inspired mini that could easily be worn to a backyard bash or a beachside venue. Wear yours with casual but elevated sandals and delicate personal jewelry.

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Laced in Love asymmetric ruffle dress

This unique style from ASOS is proof that sticking to a budget shouldn't mean that you have to sacrifice on style or quality. Featuring a fun and eyecatching origami flower, this dress makes a statement without breaking the bank.

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