The choices of party wear are mind-boggling – maxis to minis, there’s a dress suited for every type of party. Business party, cocktail event, beach party, and “I don’t have a reason” party. Here is a guide to the basic party dresses to be stocked in every woman’s wardrobe. Some of these are for seasonal wear and some are timeless designs worth investing in.

The little black dress
The little black dress, aka LBD, whether with a simple cut or an elaborate design, is very chic and will always remain so. It has been popular since the 1920s. It flatters your curves and is very versatile. Style it with a jacket or a scarf or wear just the dress and accessorize it with a lovely bag or piece of jewelry that makes a statement about you.

A lace dress
A lace dress in classic black gives you a very elegant look. Dark colors like maroon, navy, and green are fantastic for evening. Spruce up the look with stilettos and you will make heads turn. The dress can be a maxi or a mini dress. Add lace as some parts of the dress like your shoulder or back. It is best to get the help of a stylist when buying a lace dress.

Bodycon dress
The bodycon is a tight-fitted dress to match your body shape. It hugs and accentuates your figure. These dresses are made of stretchy material and they are perfect for a party. The bodycon dress is more suited for those with an hourglass figure.

A casual maxi-dress
This dress is a must-have for daytime and evening parties. If you are shopping or doing summer lunches, lunches by the pool or the beach – think no more. A maxi dress makes you look effortlessly glamorous. It is extremely versatile. Floral maxis, or brightly printed ones, or pastels too, are good options for the day. Invest in one good black maxi dress for summer evening house parties, yacht parties, and pool parties. Sleeveless maxi dresses are better for the summers. You can layer your maxi dress with a leather jacket when it gets cold. Accessorize it with strappy sandals and minimal jewelry.

Slip dresses
These are the effortlessly sexy basic party dresses that every woman’s wardrobe must have. Slip dresses are for the fun night out parties to the pub or disco. Flaunt your curves and legs with this one. When buying a slip dress, go for a black, which is a must-have. You can also invest in a metallic colored slip dress for discotheque nights.

A fabulous gown
Every woman must have a tailored or a branded gown that fits well. It is the go-to dress for a black-tie occasion or any important social dinner, which demands elegant dressing. Make sure you opt for a sleek dress. Always keep a couple of gowns in your wardrobe. One black essential one and another of a color, which suits your skin tone. Opt for reds, maroons, greens, or navy blues. Do not go for very bright ones. Nude gowns look fabulous too. Accessorizing is a very important aspect to be taken care of when you decide to wear a gown. Make sure your hair-do accentuates your face and suits the neckline of the gown. You can play with different necklines for each gown you invest in.

These are the top dress types for women that need to be in your wardrobe.