Kremi Otashliyska and Sam Rollinson photographed by Steven Meisel for Balenciaga Spring 2013

“The Pieces You Need Now”, Anja Rubik photographed by Jan Welters in Elle UK February 2013

Esther Heesch in Sonia by Sonia Rykiel Pre-Fall 2013

Mariacarla Boscono photographed by Mert & Marcus for Givenchy Spring 2013

Daria Werbowy photographed by Mert & Marcus for Versace Spring 2013

Anne Vyalitsyna photographed by Mariano Vivanco 

ASOS is a great website to use! It generally runs pretty cheap, has free shipping/returns, and it’s almost guaranteed that your friends won’t be wearing the same dress. I’m going to forget about all of the specifications regarding your appearance and focus more so on cheap party dresses. 

1. ASOS Smock Dress

A style that’s sure to flatter any frame. If you feel like it swallows you, just cinch a belt around your waist and voila! I think I’d wear my denim short sleeve shirt underneath it, black tights, and suede ankle boots. If you wanted to be even dressier, you could try pairing it with a statement necklace, patterned tights (small polka dots, pin stripe, etc.) and heels. 

2. ASOS Ribbed Skater Dress

I love the texture, shape, and color of this dress. It’s one of those perfect transitional pieces that you can take with you through every season. 

3. ASOS Swing Dress with Floral Embroidery

Swing dresses are really quite fun to wear. You don’t have to worry about sucking in, but they’re generally feminine enough that you don’t feel like you’ve lost your shape.

4. ASOS Skater Dress in Bow Jacquard

I could do without the bows, but I think I love this dress because the black and white jacquard print reminds me of the Louis Vuitton S/S 13 collection. Think I’d pair it with a pair of lower, pointed toe heels. 

5. Sister Jane Flower Applique Dress

Just the cutest LBD I’ve ever seen. A little bit much expensive, but so precious. 

6. Orla Kiely Drop Waist Dress

This is probably out of your price range, but it’s a drop waist dress and therefore an A+ in my book. And for the shorter girls, it’ll make your torso appear longer! Wear it with a nude heel to extend the length of your legs as well.

7. Oh My Love Open Back Skater Dress

Not my type of dress, but I think it would look lovely against really pale skin. 

If you’re short on time, as you are, and need a dress asap, I’d recommend your local flea market or charity shop. You’d be surprised how well an over-the-top sparkly blouse can work as a party dress. Good luck!

Esther Heesch photographed by Sarah Moon for Valentino Spring 2013

Gemma Ward illustrated by Danny Roberts

Yumi Lambert and Ondria Hardin photographed by Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel Spring 2013