Consider cocktail dresses fashion’s great middleman. Polished enough for a fancy dinner, appropriate for a work celebration, and yes, a reliable pick for weddings, this is the kind of garment that earns a permanent place in your wardrobe precisely due to its versatility. With the right accessories, that sequin mini you’ve been eyeing works just as well for your friend’s courthouse celebration as it does for an upcoming birthday. All the more reason to add a few extra pieces to your rotation, right? But before you start loading up your cart, there are a few things to keep in mind.

If you’re shopping for a wedding guest dress, the search requirements tend to be a bit more stringent. “Cocktail attire” dress codes typically call for knee-length or midi silhouettes (though shorter styles in a luxe fabric, like taffeta or silk organza, can also work depending on the venue). Essentially, the idea is to strike a balance between elevated and pared-back: A look that’s more refined than your everyday party dress—like an ankle-grazing sequined number or something with an asymmetrical handkerchief hemline—but not quite as formal as a floor-length gown.

Beyond the wedding-guest circuit, anything goes. A teal midi finished with grey fringe? Absolutely. A floral-printed mini—why not? A clingy red number that looks straight out of a ’90s fever dream (in the best way)? Sure. This sartorial prompt is your chance to go a bit outside of the box and get creative, but if you need a little inspiration to start your search, the cocktail dresses below should offer plenty.

A Mini Moment

Don’t underestimate the power of a mini dress. Whether worn with sky-high platforms or paired with mod kitten heels, shorter shapes can work for special occasions, too. Pick an A-line halter in a luminous electric blue from Bernadette for a late summer reception; for autumn events, a one-shoulder style in a richer shade, like this marigold piece from Taller Marmo, might be more appropriate.

The Perfect Midi

When you crave a little extra coverage, a midi silhouette is a fail-safe option for weddings. Simple silk slips are, after all, seasonless: Pop a shawl over these options from & Other Stories and Victoria Beckham for colder climates. Minimalism not your thing? The swishy fringe coming off the hem of Alaïa’s teal dress offers a more dynamic approach to formalwear.

Sequined Stunners

When in doubt, sequins always feel special—no matter the length. A piece in a subtle color, like the one featured here from Rachel Gilbert, is an ideal match for a more formal cocktail directive. Or, choose a midi with larger embellished crystals, like the Claudia dress from Simkhai. Dressed with onyx accessories and simple heels, it’s effortlessly elegant.

Florals, Re-Energized

Florals aren’t just for garden fêtes—if you love to make a statement, do so in this Dôen frock, which has a painterly floral design done in an appropriately autumnal palette. Prefer something more understated? Leo Lin’s tailored Ali dress strikes a mod note.

Classic LBDs

A little black dress is the demure answer for anyone after understated sophistication (or anyone with decision paralysis—this is one investment you won’t regret). Whether it’s a sexy mini or a chic slip number that’s basically a blank canvas for your most fun accessories, you can never go wrong with an inky ensemble.

’90s Revival

From a classic lace slip dress to a slinky maxi, get ready to channel your favorite ’90s supermodel at your next event with one of these easy styles. You’ll be the epitome of glamour in any of these looks—whether it’s a classic black dress by Simone Rocha or a billowing emerald maxi dress from Róhe.