Nothing says "holiday party" quite like a red dress. It is festive without trying too hard, it looks great in photos under string lights, and it works for almost every December event, from the office party to Christmas dinner to a New Year's countdown. The only question is which red dress, and how to style it. Here are our favorite red dress ideas for holiday parties, plus tips on shoes, accessories and choosing the right shade.
Why a Red Dress Works for Every Holiday Event
Red is the color of the season, so you look festive without needing sequins, a theme or a costume. It also flatters a wide range of skin tones, and it is easy to dress up or down. Wear the same dress with heels and gold earrings for a cocktail party, then with boots and a sweater coat for a family dinner.
1. The Statement Corset Dress
If you want one dress that does all the work, this is it. The Strapless Corset Floral Ruffle Red Dress is our best-selling dress: a strapless corset bodice that shapes the waist, finished with a playful floral ruffle. It is made to be noticed, which makes it perfect for a holiday cocktail party or a festive wedding. Keep the rest simple: nude or black heels, small earrings and a clutch. Prefer something softer? It also comes in white, a lovely pick for a winter wedding or New Year's Eve.
2. The Elegant Open-Back Dress
For a more minimal look, try the Elegant Backless Fitted Waist Dress. It has a fitted waist and an open back, so it looks simple from the front and surprising from behind. Pair it with heels and statement earrings, and wear your hair up to show off the back. It is a smart choice for a dinner party or a holiday date night.
3. A Little Sparkle: The Rhinestone A-Line Dress
Want some shine without going full sequins? The Rhinestone A-line Dress has rhinestone detailing that catches the light and an A-line silhouette that is comfortable for long evenings. Because the dress already sparkles, skip the heavy jewelry and let the dress shine.
4. The Sleek Wrap Bodycon
For a night out with friends or a festive club night, a fitted dress feels right. The Sleeveless Square Neck Wrap Bodycon Dress has a square collar, a sleeveless wrap style and a bodycon fit that shapes the hips. Strappy heels and a cropped faux-fur jacket make it party-ready even on cold nights.
5. Long Sleeves for Cold Nights
Not every holiday party is in a warm room. The Long-Sleeved Pleated Hollow Backless Dress gives you coverage on the arms with a daring open back and a pleated design. It is a great balance for office parties: polished from the front, a little more fun from behind.
6. The Square Neck Mini
A short red dress is a classic for New Year's Eve. The Square Neck Slim Short Vest Dress has a square neckline and a figure-hugging fit. Wear it with sheer black tights and ankle boots for a modern winter look, or with heels for a more formal party.
7. Casual and Cute: Red Plaid
For a relaxed Christmas brunch, a family gathering or an ugly-sweater party where you want to look a bit nicer than everyone else, try plaid. The Plaid Puff Sleeve Dress has puff sleeves and a sweet plaid pattern. Pair it with knee-high boots and a long coat.
How to Choose the Right Shade of Red
- Bright, true red is the most festive and photographs beautifully. Great for parties and Christmas Day.
- Deep red, burgundy and claret feel more elegant and grown-up. Perfect for dinners and office events.
- Red florals and plaid are softer and more casual, ideal for daytime gatherings.
Not sure? Hold the dress against your face in natural light. If your skin looks brighter, it is your red.
What Shoes Go With a Red Dress?
- Nude heels make your legs look longer and let the dress be the star.
- Black heels or boots are classic and easy, especially in winter.
- Gold or metallic heels add extra holiday sparkle.
- Red shoes with a red dress can look amazing, but keep everything else neutral.
Accessories: Keep It Simple
A red dress is already a statement. Choose one metal for your jewelry: gold feels warm and festive, silver feels cool and modern. A black or metallic clutch works with every red. For makeup, a classic red lip that matches the dress is timeless, while a soft nude lip lets the dress do the talking.
Staying Warm Without Hiding Your Dress
Winter parties mean coats. A long coat in camel, black or cream looks elegant over red. For something more fun, a faux-fur jacket or a leopard-print coat like the Hooded Leopard Print Faux Fur Long Coat makes a bold pair with a red dress. Sheer black tights are another easy way to stay warm and still look dressed up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a red dress appropriate for an office holiday party?
Yes. Choose a midi or a dress with sleeves or a higher neckline, and keep accessories simple. A red dress is one of the most popular office party choices.
What color shoes should I wear with a red dress?
Nude, black and gold are the safest choices. Nude lengthens the leg, black is classic, and gold adds a festive touch.
Can I wear a red dress to a Christmas wedding?
Usually, yes, unless the couple has asked guests to avoid certain colors. Pick an elegant style and avoid anything too short or too revealing for a ceremony.
Find your holiday look in our red dresses or browse all party dresses.
