If you're engaged, have a sneaking suspicion a ring might be on the horizon, or just, you know, really vibe with the bridal aesthetic RN, the chances are a *certain* dress might be on your mind. But before you start scouring wedding dresses on the hunt for 'the one', there's another thing that's well worth devoting some browsing time to: engagement party dresses.
Engagement party dresses are actually even more fun to shop for, with no set rules or expectations meaning you can let your individuality lead and create a serious lewk. You might wanna go for a short and sweet dress, try something with long sleeves, go boho, or take inspo from some of your fave celebs.
Remember, an engagement party dress doesn't have to be plain white - in fact, it could be any colour at all. You might want to go for a twist on a classic, like Jennifer Lawrence's dreamy long-sleeved powder pink L.Wells Bridal dress. Or you might opt for a pattern, like the unreal hand-embroidered silk Bernadette dress Sofia Richie Grainge wore for her engagement party, which featured pink grapes on an ivory base – and still lives in our mind rent-free.
Whatever style and shade you're after, there are loads of brilliant high-street and designer brands to browse, from Reformation and Rixo to Ghost and Mango. There are also some fab maternity options, and a range of sizes and styles for every body.
So here's our edit of the best engagement party dress to shop now (trust us, it's way easier than picking bridesmaid dresses)...
Look, we're not going to admit to having favourites, but this off-the-shoulder Reformation dress is just So. Damn. Chic. It's made from sustainably sourced and repurposed materials - but feels just like pure silk.
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Norma Kamali Diana one-shoulder ruched stretch-jersey dress
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Norma Kamali Diana one-shoulder ruched stretch-jersey dress
We reckon this stretchy ruched dress is so wearable, you'll have it on time and again - long after your engagement party. It's easy and flattering, but has enough detail to make it feel special.
If you can't go just a lil bit extra with your engagement party dress, when can you eh? This fab mini is crafted from 3D floral embroidered chiffon (actually groundbreaking) and has a bandeau neckline and flattering structured bodice.
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Engaged girlies just wanna have fun, right? The fab feather trim on this Rixo mini is ideal for dancing in. Plus, it will flatter your waist while skimming legs, and it goes up to a size 24.
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Ralph Lauren Jersey Off-the-Shoulder Gown
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Ralph Lauren Jersey Off-the-Shoulder Gown
There is just something *so* timelessly chic about this Ralph Lauren gown. It's actually made from smooth, body-hugging jersey for the ultimate in comfort – and a flattering finish. It comes in sizes 18 to 28.
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Clio Peppiatt Lucina embellished stretch-mesh mini dress
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Clio Peppiatt Lucina embellished stretch-mesh mini dress
Swarovski beads and pearls create moon and sun motifs in this dreamy dress. The ivory mesh it's made from has a little stretch (ideal if you decide to hit the d-floor). All in all, it feels like the ultimate cool-gal choice.
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Taller Marmo Ubud one-shoulder feather-trimmed crepe maxi dress
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Taller Marmo Ubud one-shoulder feather-trimmed crepe maxi dress
We're obsessed with this one-shoulder dress cut from chic ivory crepe – and trimmed with feathers, obvs. It's a showstopper that will have all your guests asking where you found such a cool piece.
Rip up the rule book (there isn't one!) and go for pink at your engagement party. Maybe you just don't fancy wearing white, or want to save that for the Big Day. This satin fit and flare dress is ideal, whatever the reason. Plus, it's on sale!
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Needle & Thread Stephanie Ballerina Dress
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Needle & Thread Stephanie Ballerina Dress
The prettiest dress we ever did see! Ruffles, tulle, net, sequins, embellishment: it's truly got it all. Ideal if you want to go for a playful, girly look.
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Karen Millen Petite Compact Viscose Stretch Drape Tailored Jumpsuit
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Karen Millen Petite Compact Viscose Stretch Drape Tailored Jumpsuit
Now 20% Off
This is one for the petite girlies out there (who know the annoying drama of tripping over too-long trousers). Its elegant halter neck and tie waist make this ultra-flattering. So good you'll wear it again and again.
We love a print dress for any occasion - and this Reiss midi is just the thing if you're not ready to embrace all-white just yet. We love the open back detailing, the flattering fit and the uplifting pattern.
Mango always has so many great dresses for any occasion - and it turns out engagement parties are no exception. This one is giving off-duty ballerina chic, and we're pairing it with flats for a low-key lewk.
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Coast Drape Satin Thigh Split Dress
It's your engagement party, you can wear navy blue and rock a thigh-high split if you want to! This is great for evening occasions - and will also double up as a wedding guest dress. Oh, and it's even on sale.
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Tiffany Rose Esther Lace Maternity & Nursing Dress
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Tiffany Rose Esther Lace Maternity & Nursing Dress
We love how clever the design of this maternity dress is. It can be untied at the back to reveal breastfeeding pockets under the front over-layer. It also looks lovely, with lacy sleeves and a cute knee-length cut.
If you're the type of person who always wears black, there's no need to change that for your engagement party. This infinitely wearable off-the-shoulder jumpsuit is made textured jersey with a fitted bodice, so it strikes the balance between comfort and style.
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Bring some boho chic to your engagement party with this two-piece Free People set. We love it paired with trainers and a leather jacket, but you could also dress it up with heeled sandals. Also, we wouldn't be against wearing it to the beach...
Hell yeah to wearing silver sequins to your engagement party - especially when the saving is this good. The wide leg fit is *everything* and you'll be ready to dance at any given moment.
A twist on a classic, this lacy long-sleeved beauty is ticking all our boxes. And the open back detailing? *Simply sublime*.
