The Best Cocktail Dresses For Women Over 50 To Wear Right Now

Don’t you love the opportunity to go to a party? As we are fully embracing the summer season, it’s easy to forget that not all parties are casual backyard barbeques. There are also weddings, work parties and other events that are semi-formal and many of us have had the pleasure of receiving invitations. So, we must not forget the need for dressier options. Cocktail dresses are more often than not the perfect choice for said occasions and we are lucky to be living in a time that gives us such a plethora of options. Regardless of your age, anyone looking to get a little dressed up for the summer should shop cocktail dresses. However, let’s take a look at some of the best cocktail dresses that are perfect for women over 50.

Cocktail Dresses For Women Over 50

Little Black Cocktail Dresses

You can never go wrong with a black cocktail dress. A little black dress (LBD) is always in style regardless of your shape, size or personal style preference. The black cocktail dress comes in many forms. You can go slim, sexy and short; or long, flowing and comfortable. The best thing about cocktail dresses, is that either of these choices (or anything in between) will be appropriate for your intended occasion. For a sexier option, I found this one shoulder midi dress that has a beautiful silhouette and will show off all of your curves. If you prefer something a little more conservative, opt for this button front dress with long sleeves. Although it’s a scaled back option for a little black dress, the white trim offers a nice visual contrast, and the tie waist gives it nice shaping. 

Comfy Cocktail Dresses

Sometimes a cocktail dress is not always about a high-glam moment. Depending on your event or your personal style, sometimes it’s about comfort. Being able to breathe, move, eat and dance in your cocktail dress are the most important rules for some women, and if that is you, there are plenty of options out there! If casual was the way I wanted to go, I would snatch up this linen cross-halter maxi dress. The cutouts offer an interesting visual and the linen provides a lightweight fabric that will keep you cool and comfortable. If you want something a little more dressed up, try this printed floral mini dress. The construction of the dress is not restricting, and the light floral pattern is perfect for any summer party. 

Show-Stopping Cocktail Dresses For Women

So let’s do a complete 180 and talk show-stoppers. If you want all eyes on you when you enter a party, I’ve got the dresses for you. I must admit that I fall into this category. If I am going to dress up for a party, I’m taking it all the way! I was shocked in the best way possible when I saw this floral sequin beaded dress. The color, the sparkle, the feathers; this dress has it all and I’m here for it. (The model is 5’10”, so it won’t be that short for most women.) Another option for a serious cocktail dress moment is the one-shoulder pleated dress. It comes in a few beautiful, saturated color options. I also love that this falls in the comfy dress category as well; no shapewear required. 

Cocktail Dresses Styling Tips

1. Don’t be afraid of variety. It’s a good idea to have a nice arsenal of cocktail dress options for any event that may come your way. I hate when something comes up and I want to look great for it, but then I start to panic shop because I don’t have anything to wear. Invest in three or four cocktail dresses that will work with your style and multiple occasions and season. Then you will always be prepared. 

2. Splurge on your little black cocktail dress. As mentioned before, a black cocktail dress is timeless and will never go out of style. So don’t feel bad about splurging. A midi length or just above-the-knee length sheath is universally flattering. It’s always good to have this go-to in your closet. 

3. Pair it well with accessories. Properly accessorizing your cocktail dress is the key to a cohesive look. Sparkles, bold jewelry, gemstones and metallics always pair well with cocktail dresses. So don’t be afraid to bring out the big guns.

Shop Cocktail Dresses For Women Over 50

Pictured above from top to bottom:

Dress The Population Tiffany One-Shoulder Midi Dress, $148

White House Black Market Contrast Trim Godet Dress, $150

Anthropologie Cloth & Stone Linen Cross-Halter Maxi Dress, $170

Express Printed V-Neck Ruffle Mini Dress, $88

ASOS EDITION Floral Sequin and Bead Mini Dress, $225

Banana Republic Radiant One-Shoulder Dress, $109.97

Do you need a new cocktail dress right now? What is your favorite cocktail dress style?

– Carmen Turner

You may like to read more of Carmen’s trends posts like Chic Ways To Wear Ruffles When You Are Over 40 and Spring Work Wear: Best Fashion For Your Return To The Office.

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