Though we are still steeped in summer, the new arrivals on the market are just one signal that fall is soon approaching. Designers are dropping the latest from their fall/winter 2024 collections and we are seeing the evidence of the upcoming trends that will be big, as well as the specific shopping items that have hit the carts of fashion insiders that are destined to land at the top of the sell-out list.
While there are plenty of categories to explore for fall including everything from great boots to jackets, cocktail dresses are another essential that comes into play for a season filled with events. Dress codes on invites often call out cocktail dresses specifically and there are some beautiful versions just in for fall. Tory Burch has perfected minimalist sequins, Theory has modern takes on sheer organza, while Helsa has a new-in elegant silhouette that is destined to be one of the key dresses of the season. Ahead, shop the best cocktail dresses for fall.

Helsa
Dress
$298
Guaranteed to sell out.

massimo dutti
Midi Dress
$199
Don’t sleep on Massimo Dutti’s designs.

Reformation
Renaie Dress
$248
Finished with a sleek cutout.

Marina Moscone
Twisted Cutout Satin Maxi Dress
$1350
Not your ordinary satin slip dress.

Reformation
Sienna Black Knit Midi Dress
$150
I own this exact dress and it is perfect for so many occasions.

CLIO PEPPIATT
Bluebell Bead-Embellished Stretch-Tulle Mini Dress
$2098
This dress feels primed for a fun party.

H&M
V-Neck Dress
$60$51
The metal hardware on the straps is perfect.

Marlies Grace
Bow-Detailed Satin Midi Dress
$675
Whoever wears this dress is definitely the life of the party.

MANGO
Fitted Halter-Neck Dress
$40
Minimalism at its best.

Reformation
Portia Dress
$298
The scarf detail takes this to the next level.

Anna October
Brigid Bow-Detailed Cutout Satin Maxi Dress
$820
This also comes in black and white.

DES_PHEMMES
Embellished Satin Mini Dress
$1220
The piece is too pretty.

ANINE BING
Camille Silk-Satin Maxi Dress
$600
An instant classic.

ZARA
Satin Effect Midi Dress
$50
Red is the color of 2024.

Khaite
Pranta Open Back Sleeveless Silk Dress
$1500
Khaite does it again.

Theory
Organza Dress
$425$255
A fun take on sheer.

SIMKHAI
Claudia Embellished Crepe Maxi Dress
$1150
The embellishments make this a conversation-starter.

Massimo Dutti
Flared Midi Slip Dress
$169
Opt for a non-black slip dress.

Khaite
Wes Pintuck Sleeveless Shantung Organza Dress
$2600
A fashion editor favorite.

BERNADETTE
Daffodil Floral-Appliquéd Point D’esprit Tulle and Silk Crepe De Chine Mini Dress
$730$365
Bernadette is known for its great dresses.

Magda Butrym
Open Back Silk Halter Midi Dress
$1985
Halterneck silhouettes are the moment.

Tory Burch
Sequin Mesh Dress
$1698
Sequins are always a must for cocktail dressing.

Sophie Rue
Icon Sleeveless A-Line Midi Dress
$248
Gorgeous.

STAUD
Cowl Neck Gown
$450$338
Recently worn by Meghan Markle.

Proenza Schouler White Label
Warren Pleated Cotton-Poplin Midi Dress
$550
A-line silhouettes are a fashion insider favorite.

EMILIA WICKSTEAD
Esha Cotton-Blend Tweed Midi Dress
$2000