We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.
Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women’s.
1. A ruffled deep-V mini so lovely, you should only wear it if you're prepared for a night full of compliments from your extended family. Hey, at least maybe now they'll stop peppering you with questions about your personal life!
Promising review: "Purchased for a holiday dinner. So many compliments. Classy, sassy, super cute." —wjsm
Another promising review: "This dress was perfect for the Vermont wedding I attended! It was comfortable and flow-y. I got so many compliments and no one could believe I got it on Amazon!" —Melanie Trinidad
Get it from Amazon for $37.99+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and 37 colors/prints).
2. Hill House's iconic Ellie Nap Dress, which, true to its name, is as comfy as something you'd want to sleep in, but stylish enough to wear to your holiday gathering. Plus, the high-waisted design means you'll have some extra breathing room after going to town on an epic feast.
Promising review: "I don't think I've reviewed this dress because 100+ reviews and it selling out on each launch sort of speaks for itself. This is just the perfect dress, for literally anybody! There is not a single day that goes by that I'm wearing one and I don't get a compliment from someone. You can dress them up or dress them down. You can nap in them, then put some heels on and wear it out to dinner! They are so easy to wear. As a person who can't stand wearing a lot of clothes, these are essential to my wardrobe. You cannot go wrong with this dress. Every drop I say I'm going to order something different and I just wind up with more Ellies. You think you shouldn't order another one because you already have one or two? ORDER IT! In all the colors and prints! As for sizing, remember to size down." —Karina
Get it from Hill House for $125+ (available in sizes XXS–2XL and 21 styles — not all styles available in all sizes).
3. A sleek pair of faux leather leggings, because they'll go with lit-er-all-y everything, and even have a thin fleece layer for extra warmth! Oh, and reviewers say they're a much more affordable dupe for the ones by Spanx.
Promising review: "I usually get my faux leather leggings from Spanx but these leggings are just as good quality and cost 60% less than Spanx! I bought the black pair then went back and purchased the tan for fall and love them both!!" —Amazon Customer
Another promising review: "I've wanted some faux leather pants for a while now, and on a whim ordered these. I love them. They are much more comfortable than I expected. They fit well and stayed in place all through the holidays when I was constantly up and down on the floor with my infant daughter." —Emily
Get them from Amazon for $39.99 (available in sizes XS–4XL and three colors).
4. An absolutely *striking* taffeta maxi skirt to wear to any dressier festivities you might be attending this season. If the holidays = your version of the Met Gala, this belongs in your closet.
Flo Atelier is a Bulgaria-based small biz that makes impeccably tailored clothing worthy of its own Fashion Week show.
Promising review: "This skirt is flawless! The fabric is gorgeous and the quality is top-notch. The company has great customer service. They will definitely get more of my business!!!" —tracey olkus
Get it from Flo Atelier on Etsy for $99 (available in sizes 0–24 and 20 colors, and you can also send the seller your exact measurements/length preference to ensure the perfect fit). If you're concerned about receiving this piece in time, expedited shipping is available for an additional cost.
5. A beautiful A-line dress, because the details on this beauty make it feel so special. Those polka-dotted mesh sleeves? The cute tie-neck? Swoon.
Promising review: "It was the perfect dress to wear to dinner and unexpectedly be proposed to! It is so pretty and delicate looking. The fit is so comfortable!" —shatishca sharp
Get it from Amazon for $26.99+ (available in sizes L–5X and 10 colors — not all colors available in all sizes).
6. A festive tinsel sweater that'll give the garland on your parents' impeccably decorated tree a run for its money when you walk through the door. So fuzzy and cute!
Get it from Anthropologie for $128 (available in standard and petite sizes XXS–XL, plus sizes 1X–3X, and in green or tan).
7. A flow-y pair of palazzo pants you'll want in every gorgeous design they come in once you feel how comfy they are. The looser style is so on-trend, and they'll look cute with everything from fitted tops to slouchy sweaters.
Promising review: "I ended up buying five pairs in different colors and talked a friend into one. (She loves them). These are top quality. Tailored like fine trousers. Extremely comfortable, soft, flowing material. I can wear year round. Fit is perfect. Washed with no problem. I pressed a little because I like a polished look. They do not wrinkle with wearing. Bonus was they are such a good price!!!" —Chris
Get it from Amazon for $23.79+ (available in sizes XS–2X and 32 styles — not all styles available in all sizes).
8. A romantic floral-print velvet dress that's ready for some post-meal mistletoe-smooching. Those bow straps and ruffled hem are just too pretty.
9. A glam sequined corset bodysuit you can wear with everything from sleek leather pants to a fun miniskirt. If you need a shiny New Year's Eve outfit, look no further.
It comes with an attached thong bottom for tucking into pants and skirts to keep it from riding up!
Get it from Free People for $78 (available in sizes XS–XL in gold or rose gold).
10. An ever-so-oversized blazer that'll instantly bring your whole look together, whether you pair it with your nicest denim or wear it over your favorite ugly holiday sweater.
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Promising review: "Just fabulous! Looks much more expensive. Good quality and fit! Just the right weight for fall into winter for sure!!!!" —karen Conner
Get it from Amazon for $61.51+ (available in sizes XXS–5X and 10 colors).
11. A ruched velvet bodycon dress so gorg, you'll probably upstage the string light display your relatives spent all weekend hanging up.
Promising review: "This dress is truly stunning, and it’s beautifully made! It fits true to size, and the fabric feels great on your skin. I wore it to a wedding and received a ton of compliments. I’m wearing it again on Thanksgiving. This is also a great dress for a holiday party and New Year’s Eve." —Tee
Get it from Amazon for $42.99+ (available in sizes XS–XL and six colors).
12. Or a luxe velvet maxi with an adjustable tie-waist, which is suuuper appreciated during the biggest meal of the year. And it's just really pretty!
Promising review: "I purchased this dress for a formal event during the winter months. It was beautiful. It fit really well, and it was so comfortable and was warm, which was a bonus. I got tons of compliments!" —JLS
Get it from Amazon for $49.99 (available in sizes XS–XXL and five colors — not all colors available in all sizes).
13. A cool pair of high-waisted faux leather shorts to pair with tights and a fitted turtleneck for a super sleek holiday 'fit.
Promising review: "My new favorites! These were a hit for Christmas! They fit perfectly, they’re light, and so so comfy!" —megan williamson
Get them from Amazon for $29.99 (available in sizes XS–XL and six colors).
14. A dazzling sequined cowl-neck mini, because once the holidays roll around, there's no such a thing as ~too~ much glitter. Oh, and the straps are adjustable!
Get it from Urban Outfitters for $79 (available in sizes XS–XL).
15. A downright glamorous pleated button-down set that frankly has no right being this gorg when you consider the entire look costs less than 50 bucks. Now you'll have more money to spend on gifts!
One reviewer even said they looked like they "walked out of a Gucci magazine" while wearing it!
Promising review: "I don’t normally leave reviews but this set is so much more beautiful in person! I didn’t stop getting compliments on how cute it is and where I got it from. Super comfortable and lightweight. Don’t hesitate and just get it! Perfect for day to nighttime." —Natalie
Get it from Amazon for $23.49+ (available in sizes S–XL, in shorts or pants, and 17 colors/prints).
16. A pair of ridiculously cute high-waisted pants with a bow not only at the tie-waist, but on each of the tapered ends as well! 🥺 And you can wear 'em year-round, making them a great investment piece.
Promising review: "I wore these pants with a bodysuit to a holiday party and they were perfect! I received many compliments all night. The pants were true to size and were very comfortable. I would recommend and plan on buying more colors!" —Court806
Get it from Amazon for $28.99+ (available in sizes S–XXL and 52 colors).
17. A classic plaid wool skirt, which will make you feel like you stepped straight out of a wintery Charles Dickens novel — minus the bah, humbug!
Linennaive is a China-based small biz that specializes in truly *stunning* garments that'll transport you to another era (think ruffled blouses and cloaks!).
Promising review: "I was a little apprehensive about buying clothing on Etsy because I like to try everything on when I buy clothes, but I'm so pleased that I ended up getting this skirt. I am very impressed by the quality of the sewing and the materials, not just of the skirt itself but also of the lining. I get so many compliments on this skirt! The shipping took a little while, but that's to be expected in this day and age. Overall, I'm very pleased with my purchase!" —dogstar21
Get it from Linennaive on Etsy for $107.10 (available in sizes XS–3XL). If you need it by a certain date, contact the seller to discuss rush shipping options.
18. A silky slip midi skirt that comes in so many gorgeous colors, you'll have no excuse for wearing your LBD for the fourth year in a row.
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Promising review: "I am not a huge reviewer but I had to with this skirt. It’s amazing. Looks so much more expensive than it actually is. Do yourself a favor and just add to cart." —Elle
Get it from Amazon for $29.46+ (available in sizes XXS–5X and 23 colors/prints).
19. An elegant and lightweight maxi dress, which is just the ticket when you wanna look put together without sacrificing comfort. Throw a cute cropped sweater or jacket over it and you're golden!
Promising review: "I was worried about buying clothes off of Amazon, but this dress is amazing. It fit soooo well, and I received a ton of compliments on it. Definitely ordering in other colors!" —Stephanie
Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in sizes XXS–XL and 15 colors, as well as a mini style).
20. A candy-colored puff-sleeve midi that feels extremely appropriate for holidays involving plenty of sweet treats. It's impossible to feel anything short of holly jolly when wearing something this fun, making it the perfect dress to don on an evening that's sure to be full of family holiday drama. 🙃
Mr. Water New York is an Asian woman-owned small biz specializing in whimsical dresses and coats for anyone who wants their wardrobe to stand out from the crowd. They recommend sizing up if you're between sizes!
Promising review: "Absolutely gorgeous dress!! Came exactly as pictured, and better than anything I’ve bought at a big box retailer in years. Considering how voluminous and dramatic the piece is, it’s about as lightweight as you could ask for a lined semi-formal dress." —Angelina Meehan
Get it from Mr. Water New York on Etsy for $89 (available in sizes 00-12).
21. A sophisticated high-neck sweater dress so classy, your grandma will ask where it's from as soon as you walk through the door.
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Promising review: "Love this dress! I wanted something to add to my capsule wardrobe, ya know, something versatile and everyday but without having to spend a lot of money for. I was pleasantly surprised with this fit that I ordered another one." —Chicago25
Get it from Amazon for $37.92+ (available in sizes XXS–5X and eight colors).
22. A pretty mesh-sleeve top for anyone who appreciates versatile clothes, since you can gussy it up for the holidays and easily wear it more casually with jeans the rest of the year.
Promising review: "Great top. Bought this to wear on Christmas and it looked great! Very comfortable and stylish." —courtney
Another promising review: "This is much more beautiful in person! I purchased this blouse as an outfit for family portraits. I absolutely love it! The quality is much better than I anticipated. It's so soft and beautiful." —Tina Vettleson
Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in sizes S–XXL and 11 colors).
23. A dreamy puff-sleeve mini dress, which will look adorable with tights and the new ankle boots you bought during Fall Prime Day.
Promising review: "Um okay this is my new favorite dress for fall/winter. I just got it and I already wore it for date night with tights underneath, and it was so cute and comfy all night. The skirt of the dress has an extra layer of lining underneath so it’s not see-through at all, and the top part of the dress has elastic on the back so it’s nice and fitted without being uncomfortable. Definitely recommend!" —Kaitlin
Get it from Amazon for $35.99+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and 17 colors/prints).
24. A sleek off-shoulder jumpsuit for anyone who identifies as Team Pants > Skirts when it comes to dressing up. Seriously, it's so pretty and looks so expensive, it'll have your party frocks quaking in their boots when they discover it in your closet.
Promising review: "I wore this to a wedding and got so many compliments! Not to mention, I have nine kids so I was running around and picking things up and shepherding everyone like usual, and this jumpsuit allowed me to do all that while looking good and feeling comfortable. Highly recommend!" —Dustin
Get it from Amazon for $35.99+ (available in sizes XS–XL and six colors).
25. Or a lush velvet jumpsuit you'll feel like royalty in, with its elegant wrapped draping and celebration-worthy jewel tone color options.
YouGa is based in China and specializes in lovely made-to-order dresses, coats, pants, and skirts.
Promising review: "Absolutely amazing jumpsuit! It's beautifully made and fits perfectly. I wore it to my friend's wedding and received many compliments. Delivery was quick, too." —Ned Karam
Get it from YouGa on Etsy for $71.50+ (available in sizes S–6XL or a custom size, and nine colors). If you're concerned about the piece arriving in time, expedited shipping is available for an additional cost.
26. A festive tunic dress, because few things say "holiday" quite like plaid, and this comfy piece is no exception.
Promising review: "Love it! Ordered this for a plaid-themed Christmas party. It was super comfortable and very cute! I got lots of compliments! AND IT HAS POCKETS! Considering ordering in more colors." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $20.99+ (available in sizes S–XL and 13 styles).
27. A slouchy turtleneck midi for anyone who's ever wished they could just wear a cozy blanket to a party and get away with it. With this, you basically can (while looking super chic to boot!).
Promising review: "Great sweater dress. Nice, warm, good length. Love it." —Zoob73
Another promising review: "The dress is super soft and washes easily. It is the perfect length, too ! I'm 5'9 and it hits at my knees. Plus, the style of the knit is amazing, it's so much more than expected!" —Lucielaukitty
Get it from Amazon for $61.78+ (available in sizes 14–32 and in white or navy).
28. A fetching metallic pleated skirt that'll wow everyone with its A+ shimmer factor. It's truly astounding that something this inexpensive could look so fancy.
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Promising review: "This skirt can be worn either fancy or casual. The shimmer on the skirt is just perfect: not too much and not too little. It really dresses up anything you wear with it. I purchased this skirt for my daughter's wedding, wearing it with a beautiful lace off-the-shoulder top. It looks stunning together. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who wants to look amazing. LOVE THIS SKIRT!" —S Bozz
Get it from Amazon for $15.96+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and eight colors, as well as a midi style).
29. An ethereally flow-y maxi dress with a twirly skirt just made for rockin' around the Christmas tree after you finish dessert.
Any Size is a small biz that makes beautiful tailored garments to fit — yes — any size!
Promising review: "Gorgeous fall dress! So generous in material. Perfectly sewn! Thank you for excellent service!" —shirleysullivan
Another promising review: "I really like the higher-waist fit on this style. Arrived well packed and within about 10 days." —Leslie Cannon
Get it from Any Size on Etsy for $80.50+ (available in sizes S–6X, as well as custom sizes, and 27 colors). If you're concerned about this piece arriving in time, expedited shipping is available for an additional cost.
30. A sweet retro-style swing dress to bring a little vintage ~flair~ to the party.
Promising review: "Got this dress for my office holiday party. I bought a silver petticoat for underneath and silver pumps — got a lot of compliments. The fabric is amazing — a little stretch and so soft." —Jennifer Boucher
Get it from Amazon for $26.99+ (available in sizes 14–24 and 19 colors/prints).
31. A jaw-dropping cross-front sequined number for anyone who considers the holidays the perfect time for a statement piece. So stunning!
It's lined and has a hidden zipper at the back.
Get it from Lane Bryant for $71.97 (originally $119.95; available in sizes 12–28).
32. A glamorous long-sleeve dress that'll probably become your new favorite fall/winter party outfit. Wear it with bare legs and heels when weather isn't an issue or slip on some tights and ankle boots when you need a little more coverage.
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Promising review: "A must-have! This dress is everything!!! I purchased the green color and it’s absolutely beautiful! I think it’s my new favorite dress! The fit and length were perfect!" —Jennifer Caldorera
Get it from Amazon for $42.27+ (available in sizes XXS–5X and five colors).
33. A silky slip dress perfect for layering under your favorite blazer or cardigan. Now the only question is, which of the gorgeous colors do you choose?!
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Promising review: "Effortless, beautiful dress. This dress looks silky and high quality, and can pair well with any jacket. It still looks great after machine wash and machine dry." —Kelley Cramson
Get it from Amazon for $37.92+ (available in sizes XXS–5X and 24 colors/prints).
34. A *stunning* pleated sweater maxi that looks way more expensive than its less-than-$50 (!) price tag. The skirt paneling and shoulder bands give this dress so much character, and those rich color options just scream "holiday."
Vogue by Nekar is a small biz based in China and New York that also specializes in handmade jewelry and other fun accessories. They recommend sizing up or consulting their size guide to find your best fit.
Promising review: "This is my first time buying clothing on Etsy. I was nervous but there was no need! It fits perfectly and it’s just like in the pictures! The material is so warm, the perfect fall/winter dress! Also the colorful part of the skirt is a nice thick material just like a pleated skirt is. It is also the same on the back. So half the skirt is the pleated skirt and the other half is the winter material. Nice and cozy and soft. My favorite dress by far! Sleeves are a perfect length and it goes about mid-calf on me. True to size!" —Maria
Get it from Vogue by Nekar on Etsy for $47.99 (available in sizes S–XL and four colors). If you're concerned about this piece arriving in time, expedited shipping is available for an additional cost.
35. A stylish lantern-sleeve mini just begging to be worn with thigh-high boots at your next gathering. And so cozy, too!
Promising review: "Cute and comfy. Can dress up or down for any occasion! I wore this to a fancy dinner in London and it was perfect, so many compliments!!!! Bought in beige for Thanksgiving and green for Christmas, love love LOVE this dress! Fits true to size with some wiggle room as well; size down if you want it super tight. Perfect length as well." —Breana Calderon
Get it from Amazon for $41.49+ (available in sizes S–XXL and 16 colors).
36. A V-neck maxi with a subtly ruffled skirt for a festive touch. Also, that cheeky little slit is just *chef's kiss*.
Promising review: "Wore this for a dressy work holiday party. It was a hit! Very comfortable, very pretty, easily accessorized, and made a semi-formal event a smash. Will definitely keep for future events!!" —LIANNE C.
Another promising review: "Wore this to a beach wedding in December! Cold, but dress was warm and super comfy! BUY THIS DRESS! I got so many compliments!" —Madisen
Get it from Amazon for $30.86+ (available in sizes 1X–4X and four colors).
37. And finally, a pretty V-neck maxi sporting lacy long sleeves for an outfit that's equal parts elegant *and* comfortable.
Promising review: "I bought this for family photos/Christmas and I absolutely love this dress. It fits true to size. The dress is long and if you are short I would recommend wearing it with heels. It’s extremely comfortable and the green is a beautiful emerald shade." —Oh F.
Get it from Amazon for $43.99 (available in sizes XS–3X and six colors).
Reviews in this post have been edited for length and clarity.