As the weather heats up, so do our social calendars. Between house parties, birthday celebrations and hens nights, we’re finding more and more reasons to get dolled up.

Admid all the fun it can be challenging to find the right makeup, hairstyle and most importantly, the right party dress. You’ll want to strike the perfect balance between looking chic and being comfortable.

We have put together a guide to help you dress to the nines for your first time setting foot in a bar or nightclub since lockdown. Explore our range of show-stopping cocktail and party dresses at Ally Fashion!

It’s all in the name! A party dress is worn specifically for a party, whether that be a birthday, cocktail party, hens or simply a Friday night out. The style of the dress usually differs according to the nature of the party. A mini dress is perfect for a night of clubbing, while a maxi dress is usually kept for more formal soirees.

When we are talking about evening wear, our minds wander to the little black dress in our wardrobe. This colour never disappoints. However, a pop of colour or a fun print can really make a statement! Go for a red party dress if you want to stand out or a pink dress for a sweet, girly look.

Whether you have a chilled house party or drinks at your local dive, it can be hard to nail the casual party look. Here are three dresses we recommend:

1. The Shirt Dress: Light and breezy, this dress is the perfect mix of casual and feminine. Accessorise with boots and jewellery or cinch the tee at the waist with a belt for added shape.
2. The Smock Dress: The perfect piece for when you want something feminine but breezy and loose.
3. The Knitted Dress: A versatile addition to your wardrobe, this dress can be paired back with sneakers and a jacket for those more relaxed nights out.

A great party dress needs to make you feel great, look amazing and withstand plenty of dancing! Here are some things to keep in mind when you buy a party dress:

- Know your body type: Accent your curves in a bodycon dress or show off your legs in a mini party dress!

- Know your style: What colour suits you? Do you prefer halter or strapless? Make sure your dress caters to your personal style and shows off your favourite features.

- Make sure you buy the right size: Everything looks better when it fits right!

If there’s anything your evening wardrobe needs, it’s a trusty little black dress. Failsafe but far from boring, this minimalist canvas leaves plenty of room for styling. Elevate a black party dress with strappy heels, statement earrings and a clutch for a show-stopping look.

Enter the elevated slip dress—a sophisticated take on a 90s classic. Chic, stylish and effortless, it will take you from evening cocktails to the nightclub dancefloor. Style these fun formal dresses with pared-back accessories and simple strap heels.

Fuelling a resurgence in party clothes, we’ve seen the cut-out dress become increasingly popular! A glamorous, party-orientated trend, a cut-out piece is a fun and easy way to add a sultry element to your look. Go for a dress with a cut that pops out the waist, collarbones or back. Add strappy heels and a mini handbag to these night out dresses!

Simple, elegant and effortless, a knit dress is an easy option for your night out. Choose a midi length if you want a classy look or a mini for a fun, party vibe. Elevate the look with heels and statement jewellery or tone it down with sneakers and a jacket.

You might think floral dresses are for day events, but when worn right, florals can add a feminne touch to your evening look. Go for materials and styles that scream "party", such as a satin floral mini dress.

You know you’re in for a wild night with an animal print dress! Whether it's zebra, leopard or cheetah print, these party wear dresses will never let you down. Alternatively, accessorise a neutral dress with animal print shoes or a handbag.

Shop all these trends and more on Ally Fashion now.