After parties are a chance to be bold and take risks, whether it’s through fashion, or by mingling with that celebrity you’ve been nervous to approach. It’s a chance to let your guard down, drink a little too much, and still look your best while doing it. That’s why choosing a dress that you feel good in is just as important. Because when you feel like a star, you look like one. Consider this your glam-guide to gowns you’ll want to wear all awards season long.
8 Editor-Approved Gowns for a Red Carpet After Party That Stand Out Among the Stars
- By: Amanda Coscarelli
The Critics Choice Awards just kicked off awards season, the Golden Globes are this Sunday, Jan. 11, and the Oscars are just around the corner, which means red carpet fashion is all everyone’s talking about. From Kylie Jenner’s fiery orange dress at the Marty Supreme premiere to Erin Doherty’s spearmint satin gown at the Critics Choice Awards, the stars are showing up this year with bold colors that aren’t afraid to steal the show.
Red carpet looks are important. They set the scene for some of Hollywood’s most glamorous nights. But the real fun starts after the show, when the pressure’s off and the ballgowns are exchanged for something a little easier to dance in.
After parties are the bridge between black-tie and cocktail, a perfect place to spot some of the best of awards season fashion. From Sabrina Carpenter’s haute pink off the shoulder dress at last year’s W Magazine Golden Globes after party to Eliza Gonzales’s sheer stripes at last year’s Netflix Golden Globes after party, post-costume-change looks prove that the red carpet is just a warm up. Want to stand out among the stars? These 8 gowns are editor-approved and dance-proof, so the only thing you’ll have to worry about is how much 80-proof vodka the bartender put in your cosmopolitan.
Mac Duggal Strapless Gathered High Slit Gown
Strapless Gathered High Slit Gown
$338
Get in on the orange frenzy with this sleek, silky, high slit gown that’s daring enough to catch the camera-man’s attention but still looks classy and elegant.
What we love: The high slit/gathered waist combo contours your curves in all the right places.
A.L.C. Lara Pleated One Shoulder Gown
Lara Pleated One Shoulder Gown
$816.24
Go green with this satin one-shoulder gown that’s glamorous enough for black tie, but flirty enough to take someone home in.
What we love: The gathered material hits right at the top of the hip for that perfect snatched-waist-look.
Mac Duggal Tulle High Neck Sleeveless Ruffled Hem Hi-Lo Gown
Tulle High Neck Sleeveless Ruffled Hem Hi-Lo Gown
$798
Looking for a pink dress that pops? This ruffled Mac Duggal gown is sure to make an entrance.
What we love: The tulle fabric bounces along with you as you strut towards the bar, and a hi-lo cut never goes out of fashion.
LIKELY Minka Exaggerated Bow Gown
Minka Exaggerated Bow Gown
$256.80
Understated with a touch of flare, this sleek black gown is all the elegance of an all black suit wrapped up in feminine packaging.
What we love: The back-slit provides so much flexibility for dancing, and sitting comfortably.
Mac Duggal Floral Beaded Gown
Floral Beaded Gown
$598
It’s all in the details. Go for a timeless gown that’s sure to turn heads with this fitted blue Mac Duggal gown, featuring an intricate hand-beaded floral design.
What we love: Layering on the inside and outside of the dress makes this statement piece sparkle without compromising comfort. No itchy fabric here.
Teri Jon by Rickie Freeman Off The Shoulder Floral Mikado Gown
Off The Shoulder Floral Mikado Gown
$1,010
Nothing says, bold, bright and beautiful like this hot pink floral Rickie Freeman gown with a wide foldover topline.
What we love: The gathering in the front of the gown is flattering on every body type and hides all the hors devours you’ve lost count of.
Amsale Strapless Gown
Strapless Gown
$950
Less is more with this strapless lavender gown that’s simple enough to let your statement accessories do the talking.
What we love: The shiny fabric steals the show under the strobe lights and the sweetheart neckline makes the girls look chef’s kiss.
Mac Duggal Satin Mermaid One Shoulder Gown
Satin Mermaid One Shoulder Gown
$598
This vibrant one-shoulder mermaid gown stands out in a sea of designer dresses. It’s elegant, electric and just-enough.
What we love: The structured seams snatch you from every angle, proving that details make all the difference.
