long sleeve long velvet dress Black Mesh Maxi | Womens | XX-Small (Available in XS, S, M, L, XL) | 100% Polyester or no bra Black Velvet Dress – Goddess

Go for a metallic stunner like this one, add heels, and youre all set

Shop the Edit Merry Cocktail Party Whether youre going to your friends house for a night of Irish coffee and mojito making, or will be braving the winter weather by venturing out to the swankiest bar in town, going to a cocktail party is the best excuse youll get to wear a cocktail dress - its in the name, after all

Originally pictured: Stained Glass Color Wheel, originally uploaded to Flickr by garlandcannon.) Admin note: this post was originally written in 2011, but updated substantially as indicated.

If youre worried about your stomach being emphasized, try a darker shade mini-skirt like the above outfit

Lay a pattern piece on the fabric, pin it in place, and cut it out

The cap sleeve, boat neck and A-Line design of the dress adds movement and flow, making it easy to wear