Best Christmas party dresses 2018: Going out dresses for the festive season

The party season is fast-approaching - and that means our search for the perfect festive ensemble is underway.

Why not push that old LBD to the back of your wardrobe and amp up your look this year?

We've sought out sparkly, metallic, glittering and sequin frocks in a range of timeless designs, from the high street and beyond.

With pieces for every budget, shape, size and occasion, our edit of the best will take you seamlessly from work functions and family gatherings, to nights out with friends rockin' around that Christmas tree.

So what are you waiting for?

Get shopping with our favourites below...

Red Floral Bow Dress

We are loving this River Island floral patterned dress. Featuring cut-out detail and frill hem, it's on the market in sizes 6 to 18. Available in yellow or baby blue - including the red and purple colourway below - this sleeveless number would work well with block-heel sandals, accessorised with chunky bracelets.

£55 | River Island | Buy it now

Iris Blue Embroidery

Stand out from the crowd this Christmas in a kimono-inspired piece from Rixo. This silky velvet dress features sparkling celestial embroidery against a stunning cornflower blue hue. A unique wrap-around that'll make you stand out from the crowd.

£295 | Rixo | Buy it now

Balmain Asymmetrical Lightning Bolt Print Dress

This Balmain rhinestone embellished dress has you ready for the party season in moments. With a David Bowie-esque lightening strike design, this silver, red and black dress is figure-hugging, flattering and features an asymmetric one-shoulder design.

£2,350 | Farfetch | Buy it now

Stud Velvet Frill Dress

This timeless polka dot dress is both versatile and luxe. Made in velvet, it has multi-coloured studs, an open back and a frontal frill design. Offered in sizes 4 to 18, it's a reliable 'go to' number.

£45 | Topshop | Buy it now

Don't Blend in Zebra Belted Dress

Go wild this party season with one of the most sought-after prints of the season. The bold zebra-print dress has notch lapels and a button down closure, further embellished with a tie belt to cinch the waist.

£32 | Nasty Gal | Buy it now *On sale from £40

Maxi Dress

In a seasonal green shade, this H&M maxi dress masters the art of minimalistic chic. However, you can easily style it up... Wear a blouse underneath, or a belt over the band, or surround it with statement jewellery and you can create a brand new look with each wear.

£49.99 | H&M | Buy it now

Rowan Dress

From the renowned American label Reformation, this midi dress should be firmly on your wish list. With smocked bodice and cuffs, and a ruffle trim along the neckline, it's ultra feminine. However our favourite feature has got to be the constellation print. Dreamy.

$248 | Reformation | Buy it now

Leopard High Neck Dress

Follow this season’s leopard print trend with this stylish high neck piece. Available in sizes 6 to 18, the subtle flare adds movement, and its long sleeves will keep you warm (if you find yourself on the opposite end of the room to the chestnuts roasting on an open fire).

£42 | Warehouse | Buy it now

Mela Bronze Metallic Bodycon Dress

Want to go glitter? What better excuse is there than at Christmas? This mini dress has an all-over sparkly design and can be paired with strappy sandals for an ultra smart occasion, or dressed down with a pair of biker boots for something more casual. Available in sizes 8 to 16.

£25 | New Look | Buy it now

The Amelia - Post Modern

From one of our favourite brands from across the pond, this Realisation Par dress may answer all your party needs. Made up in the label’s signature 100% silk crepe, it features a fitted corset, adjustable spaghetti straps and a slight curve at the bust line. If you want to dance the night away, look to do it in this dress.

$210 | Realisation Par | Buy it now

Plus Black Satin Wrap Dress

This PrettyLittleThing dress is a sophisticated twist on a classic LBD. Offered in sizes 16 to 26, it best suits those formal occasions. Pair with strappy heels and statement jewellery for smart or black tie functions.

£25 | PrettyLittleThing | Buy it now

Urban Renewal Green Velvet Cami Dress

Raising the style stakes, this Urban Outfitters number is a vintage piece that has been given a new lease of life. In one of the festive season's key colours, this velvet cami would make a fun addition to your party closet.

£40 | Urban Outfitters | Buy it now