Party season is approaching, and it’s time to peer into your closet to decide if you’re ready for all the fun ahead. If your aim is to hit that perfect balance of investment pieces that will last for several seasons, but that are totally on-point in the here and now, you’re in luck. There are some gorgeous new offerings out there right now. Here are some of the best pieces from the fall winter 2018-19 designer collections to take you to black-tie galas, dinner with friends, date night, or a brilliant concert or theater performance. Bring on the night.
King of the night Tom Ford nails multiple trends of the season — the 80’s, red, and leopard prints — with this stunning red cocktail dress.
Tom Ford Tiered Leopard-Print Silk-Crepon Mini-Dress – $5,650
Fall and holiday parties demand that you have a tuxedo jacket in your wardrobe to throw on over a mini dress or skirt, or skinny black cigarette pants. This Saint Laurent velvet blazer would be perfect for those moments. We love the narrow satin lapels and single button that create the illusion of a narrower waist and slimmer silhouette than some others we’ve seen this season.
Saint Laurent Satin-Trimmed Velvet Blazer – $3,290
A statement skirt is always a great way to make an entrance, and this shimmering metallic Balmain maxi would definitely do the trick.
Balmain Metallic plissé-georgette maxi skirt – $1,995
For the whirl of galas, fundraisers, business events and other black-tie occasions this season, you can never go wrong with a frock from Oscar de la Renta. The brand has gotten its groove back with its recent collections, and we totally love this sequinned floral tulle evening gown.
Everyone loves an LBD — what could be better than one that wears its name on its sleeve? This cheeky version from Virgil Abloh c/o Off White will definitely get everyone into the party mood.
Off-White Sweater Dress – $985
If your party wardrobe budget is large and your confidence level is, too, we love this sexy Balmain stretch knit mini-dress. The stripes are arranged to converge at the waist, so it’s incredibly flattering, and comfortable too.
Balmain Knit Mini-dress – $3,350
A shot of cobalt blue is a fresh idea, and plays perfectly with the black-and-blue color trend that’s everywhere this fall. Gianvito Rossi nails it, as always, with this feathered pair of evening sandals.
Gianvito Rossi Thais feather-trimmed suede sandals – $995
We also love these sparkly purple ankle boots from Saint Laurent.
Saint Laurent Pierre Glittered Leather Ankle Boots – $1,095
Dad sneakers are definitely still a Thing in evening wear, and Gucci ups the ante this season with these Flextrak embellished sneakers. The jewels are removable if you decide to for a post-party hike.
Gucci Tonal Hiker Sneakers with Jeweled Strap – $1,590
On the opposite end of the spectrum, you could opt for this killer pair of ankle boots from Christian Louboutin. They’re made of silver glittered leather and embellished with the label’s signature studs. They have a sleek pointed toe and a mirrored stiletto heel. So. Much. Fun.
Louboutin So Full Kate 100 Embellished Glittered Leather Ankle Boots – $1,895
For an evening bag that channels the spirit of glamour and high style, look no further than Saint Laurent. The brand’s evening bags are stunning, and they’re well-made – so they’ll last for many seasons to come. This latest version of the Kate bag is party-perfect. It’s made of black suede leather embellished with sparkling glass crystals and sporting a silver tassel.
Saint Laurent Embellished Kate Shoulder Bag – $2,850
if you prefer soft to structured in your evening bag, this happy pink Attico tasseled sequinned drawstring bag is an ideal. You can rock it with jeans by day, and a cocktail dress by night.
Attico Tasseled Sequin Pouch – $463
What better way to channel your inner Duchess of Sussex than by donning a shimmering headband? This one from Gucci debuted at Milan Fashion Week this spring. It’s made in Italy from black velvet and crystal-embellished bows. So. Cute.
Gucci Crystal Velvet Headband – $790
You can also rely on Gucci to help you jazz up a classic strapless black dress with a dash of elan. These metallic leather opera gloves are from the spring-summer collection, but they’ll do nicely all the way through the end of the year.
Gucci Metallic leopard-jacquard gloves – $290
If you only make one purchase this season for your party wardrobe, a gorgeous evening coat might be the best investment of all. The Row has made a name for itself with stunning cashmere coats, but for evening we prefer something lighter. This red satin long-line coat seems tailor-made for glamorous events — uptown or downtown, this would light up the night.
The Row Neyton Washed Duchess-Satin Long-line Coat – $4,890
There you have it — a few ideas for how to suit up for your autumn and winter nocturnal adventures. One bold statement piece is really all you need. For more ideas, we love the shopping sites MyTheresa, MatchesFashion, and Net-a-Porter.
Have fun out there!
