27 best occasion dresses for women in their 50s, 60s and 70s who want to look fabulous in 2026

Zara has nailed it with this gorgeous dress new-in for spring. The midi dress comes with a tie neck and has an elasticated waist with a self-fabric belt. 

This dress is guaranteed to make you feel good and it'll always be there for you - it's so timeless. The long sleeves will ensure you feel comfortable and you'll be able to dance all night in this dress.  

This regal looking dress is crafted from a fluid floral print with softly sculpted puff sleeves and a defined waist. It looks especially elegant when styled with bow-adorned heels and a metallic clutch.

I'm a big fan of Aspiga's dresses. Not only do they look good, but they're incredibly designed as well. I think this dress would be a fantastic occasion dress thanks to its bright hue. Team with a pair of pointy kitten heels and a statement clutch bag for a dressier look.

If you're looking for a formal occasion dress for a special occasion during spring or summer, this new-in dress at Phase Eight is stunning. It will be perfect for an abroad wedding as well. 

This is a real classic dress that would suit ladies who don't feel comfortable with anything too risque or too loud. 

If you're after a dress that's as unique as you are, Wolf & Badger is a great destination to land on when shopping for the dream dress. There are plenty of unique designs to make you swoon. 

I am a huge fan of Rixo and this dress will never date. The Evie floral print silk dress is available in regular and petite. 

I realise not everyone wants to wear florals, polkda dot and bright colours. If you're looking for some more slinky numbers, we have an edit of long satin dresses for women, as well. This one works perfectly for a black tie wedding. 

How dreamy is this dress? The white polka dot long-sleeved midi dress is absolutely beautiful. The cut is flattering on the tummy area and it also comes with a detachable neck scarf if you want some added drama. It would appear that this dress is bra-friendly if you choose wisely. The site recommends you take your usual size. 

Be warned, this will sell out. The baby pink satin dress is wedding occasion ready. 

I've found the ideal dress for you if you want to look poised and elegant. Queens of Archive is a fabulous brand and the likes of Holly Willoughby, Ferne Cotton and Lisa Snowdon are all huge fans. The 'Josephine' dress exudes glamour.

A polka dot dress is the perfect option when it comes to occasion wear and this is crafted with two layers, it combines a navy lining with a sheer polka dot overlay. The waist is cinched and you have short, open sleeves that subtly reveal the shoulders. 

This dress is perfect for those of you who enjoy colour and want to opt for something bright, rather than nudes and pastels. You can choose whether you want to style the dress with the belt or without. 

This dress will be a wardrobe saviour for years to come and what's more, it's available in regular and petite. I love this dress from Next because it looks fashionable and comfortable - the perfect balance of the two.  

River Island is a great place to find occasion wear if you ask me. I saw plenty of dressy options available, but I chose this pink satin floral dress with twist front detailing because I can imagine it would work really well on a lot of women. 

This gorgeous dress is made from brushed stretch cotton and comes with a chic belt to wear with it - this nips in the waist and gives the dress a little bit of drama.

Nothing feels more elegant than a dress that moves with you - and this dress does just that.

Karen Millen has always been a strong favourite here at Best Quality Designer Handbag HQ and this structured dress wins brownie points for the flattering fit. It's a bestseller for a reason.

Mint Velvet is a firm favourite with the fashion crowd and lots of the occasion wear dresses tend to sell fast. I love this one, because it is elegant and serene. Keep it looking modern with metallic accessories.

The metallic fleck on this dress will bounce off the sunlight, making it a great option for a spring wedding guest dress (or an abroad wedding!).

The elasticated waist seam is ideal if you don't want to feel restricted. 

ME+EM has some gorgeous spring options for occasion wear in 2026, and this candy coral dress makes my heart sing. Team with a matching pink lip and black accessories.  

Needle & Thread is a royal occasion wear-approved brand and this dress is part of the new collection so I couldn't resist showing it off to you.  Inspired by archival garden artwork, this gown features romantic ditsy florals with trailing leaves across the silhouette. Finished with soft cape sleeves and a flowing ankle-length skirt for graceful, feminine movement.

If you're after a dress that you can wear for a special occasion, this is it. I think this would look gorgeous with a silver box clutch and some bedazzled earrings.

If you want glamour, you've got to check out Nadine Merabi - you can't go wrong. This is a brand that's loved by celebs, royals and fashionistas. 

Scamp & Dude is one of my go-to brands for the warmer months so I thought I'd see if there were any occasion-friendly pieces on site and I came across this leopard print number. This will be a timeless addition to your wardrobe. With short angel sleeves, a tiered skirt and ruffle detailing, it's definitely a need - not a want.

If you're on the look out for a strapless dress to wear to a special occasion such as the races or a wedding, I'm swooning over this Essentiel Antwerp dress. It's constructed around a structured bodice reinforced with side-seam boning. The neckline is subtly sculpted, forming a soft heart-shaped line. The bodice extends into an integrated wrap-belt panel that ties at the waist, creating a controlled drape.