Since Eid in July, it’s been pretty much back to back festivals, and it’s only going to get better (worse?) with Dussera, Diwali, Christmas and New Year just around the corner. This can only mean one thing. More parties! Sure attending them is fun, but when you’re hosting, then it is also a bit hectic. But you can’t let your guard down, especially when it comes to looking good. So we’ve pick out dresses that are perfect for the hostess with the mostess. They’re practical - think midi or maxi options that won’t ride up, sleeveless ones that won’t have the dress in curry while stirring, and with enough colour and shimmer to make you shine! And the best part? They’re currently all on sale at the Nykaa Fashion Grand Festive Carnival, so snap them up for less than INR 5000.
Practical, Pretty & Under INR 5000: Dresses For The Stylish Party Hostess
Black Keep Me Ruched Polka Dress From RSVP by Nykaa Fashion
Who says you always need to wear lots of colour. Black is always the new black, and that won’t change. Versatile enough to wear for just a girl’s night out, a formal reception or at the party you’re hosting. Polka dots just never go out of style, and this midi, net outfit is the perfect blend of sexy and elegant. The fit and flare ensures you’re look like you’re gliding about gracefully, and we recommend wearing strappy heels even if you do have some running about to do!
Price On Sale: INR 3,222
Organza Asymmetric Dress From Alaya By Stage3
This gorgeous yellow, slip-on dress by Alaya by Stage 3 is perfect for the festive season. The organza material elevates the outfit giving it an automatic hint of shine, while the asymmetric cut throws in the hint of edge. It also means that it’s light, leaving you to bustle about being the perfect host. Since it’s sleeveless, you don’t need to worry about the sleeves ending up a dal or curry while you’re laying the food out. The collar makes it easier to skip wearing a necklace, so we recommend just big earrings and a jazzy belt.
Price On Sale: INR 1,163
Black Midi Dress From Swish Boss
This pretty black number from Swish Boss a definite add to your cart piece. We love the floral embroidered work and the organza balloon sleeves. It has an A-Line fit and this dress is perfect for party as well as occasion wear.
Price On Sale: INR 4,800
Mini Dress From AND
We picked this mini dress from AND only because you need a shimmery pretty dress that you can wear for your Friday night scenes. The slip-on design and the casual fit makes this a worthy addition to your party wear.
Price On Sale: INR 2,160
Maroon Embellished Sheath Dress by Miss Chase
Maroon invokes passion and wisdom, both traits of a great hostess. This ruched maroon and golden number is pure glam. We like the golden embellished neckline which makes this a standout piece. The three fourth sleeves with the skinny fit make it classy. Host your dinner party or any casual event in it and enjoy the limelight. Add on a pair of heels and minimal accessories to slay the look.
Price On Sale: INR 965
Printed Green Dress by Vero Moda
One-shoulder silhouettes have taken over runways, summer soirées and dinner parties. This green dress with an abstract nature-inspired print has a high-style aesthetic. We love the A-line cut along with the waist-tie which accentuates the curves. The colour is such a fresh change from the regular lot and is sure to make you stand out from the crowd.
Price on Sale: INR 2,250
Black Evening Gown From Style Island
If you’re hosting a low-key black tie sort of a party then allow us to introduce you to this gorgeous black number. It’s floor length, with intricate detailing on the bodice. The material is polyester, which makes it durable too. We’re not certain about the lining on the dress of it has any though. Size wise, this starts at an S and goes only till L which is a tad disappointing. The detailing does not go all the way around which we wish it did since the back of the dress is completely plain. Other than that we like it for its silhouette and flow. Pair it with super minimal jewellery and you’ll be good to go.
Price On Sale: INR 3,499
Vintage Black Maxi Dress From Why So Blue
If we were hosting a party, this is definitely the first thing we’ll look for. It’s black, it’s flowy, with a vintage touch to it. The cut style in the middle is quite trendy while the dress itself is made of cotton which means it’s perfect for a host to walk (and run) around in. Size wise it starts at an XS and goes up to an XL. Additionally, it’s got an interesting yet simple criss-cross detail on the back with a zip closure. The spaghetti straps make it easy for you to style by adding a throw or a jacket on top. Pair it with a pair of danglers that match your shoes, and you’ll be good to go.
Price On Sale: INR 4,000
Mirielle Black Slit Dress From Attic Salt
Hosting a New Year’s Eve house party? Spread the cheer and flare (while looking like a Bollywood queen) in this black slit dress. The slit reaches just the middle of the thigh, so worry not. The waist knot and one-shoulder details make it a contemporary fit to steal the show. The dress is available for all body types. Style it with diamonds or fine jewellery to make a statement.
Price On Sale: INR 3,188
Women Solid Pink Dress From Vero Moda
This baby pink cinches the waist in all the right places and has an interesting back, which shows just enough skin to be comfortable but feel sexy too. It’s an easy pick for a hostess who needs something fuss-free but doesn't want to compromise on the looks. It’s made from polyester it’s durable, quick-drying (in case you spill your drink) and can handle machine wash. And it’s available in six sizes, from XS to 2XL.
Price On Sale: INR 4,499
Pink Printed Gown From Global Desi
This printed gown (looks like red, to be honest) is the dress for Diwali parties! It’s made from polyester, so we know it’ll be lightweight and looks effortless, and breezy. The subtle gold work goes with the festive vibe. Pair it with some long gold earrings and heels, you can even add a light chunni to amp up the festive feels, and you’re good to go.
Price On Sale: INR 4,299
Chance To Shine Dress
If you’re the opposite of the host who stays in pajamas (because she has too much running around to do) and love being the star of your own party, there is nothing less than a fully bedazzled look that will do. And this dress IS. ALL. THAT. We are staunch believers of going all out, especially during the festive season because when life gives a reason to dress up, we take it with both hands. Bear in mind that it is sequinned throughout, so it is not the ideal dress to be worn for nights that turn into mornings.
Price On Sale: INR 4,497
Twirl Into The Season Maxi Dress
If there was ever a colour that embodies the meaning of the word ‘festive’, it is yellow. This yellow maxi dress is perfect for those who are looking to keep it low-key yet fashionable, especially if you’re on a budget. It is made of polyester, which puts it in a very affordable budget. Since it is a tad bit too plain for the festive season, we recommend styling it with all the accessories! The sizes for this range from 2XL to 4XL, so our tiny friends would be disappointed, but hey, they get the benefit of more options.
Price On Sale: INR 1,398