Think of party season dressing and the images that spring to mind likely include a lot of sequins. While sparkles will certainly be making an appearance this festive period, we’ve also got our eye on a new head-turning trend: the bodice dress.

Fitted dresses are nothing new but unlike the bustier dresses of recent years, this season’s styles are all about feature bodices and floaty skirts, more fairytale than femme fatale. Stepping away from sultry bodycon fits, these frocks are reminiscent of prom nights past, with puffball bottoms and taffeta to boot. 

Often featuring a drop waist, 2022’s bodice dresses sit somewhere between Regencycore elegance and ’80s partywear, making them a sweet addition to any seasonal wardrobe. Fabric-wise, velvet and satin have quickly become online favourites, with Staud’s Landscape Mini Dress instantly selling out as shoppers vie to get their hands on its black boned bodice and babydoll-esque velvet skirt. 

If you’re looking for some girly glamour with a side of sophistication, take a peek at all the best bodice dresses we’re shopping for party season (hair bow optional).

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Staud Landscape Velvet and Moire Corset Mini Dress, $, available at Net-A-Porter

Collusion Corset Detail Mini Dress with Ties in Green, $, available at ASOS

Oasis Velvet Corset Skater Mini Dress, $, available at Oasis

Reformation Florissant Dress, $, available at Reformation

Collusion Corset Detail Midi Dress in Blue, $, available at ASOS

Orseund Iris The Day Dress, $, available at Orseund Iris

Zara Silk Blend Corsetry Inspired Dress, $, available at Zara

Silvia Astore Annie Dress Pink, $, available at Annie’s Ibiza

ASOS LUXE One Shoulder Satin Mini Dress with Corset Detail, $, available at ASOS

For Love & Lemons Kate Mini Dress, $, available at For Love & Lemons

ASOS LUXE Curve One Shoulder Cotton Dress with Corset Detail, $, available at ASOS

Paco Rabanne Black Dress, $, available at Paco Rabanne

Miss Selfridge Velvet Corset Mini Dress in Black, $, available at ASOS

For Love & Lemons Virginia Maxi Dress, $, available at For Love & Lemons

Warehouse Structured Velvet Strappy Mini Dress, $, available at Warehouse

Aje Pink Suzette Puffball Mini Dress, $, available at Browns

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