When discussing red dresses, there’s no one who comes to mind more than iconic Italian designer, Valentino Garavani, grandfather of the red dress and purveyor of all things “sensational."
There’s never been a hue more magnetic than rouge and in dress form, it’s capable of stopping people in their tracks. Just ask famous icons of the past, Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn and Mary Queen of Scotts (ignore the fact she was executed in red) who have all famously donned red dresses.
Red is also closely linked to the holiday season, for obvious reasons. Every year, we find an abundance of red party dresses on store shelves in anticipation of many Christmas celebrations.
Women of all hair colours: We encourage you to try the vampiest of colours this holiday season with inspiration from the likes of Jessica Biel, Ginnifer Goodwin and Nina Dobrev in these ready-to-wear dresses. (Don't you worry blonds - you can rock them too.)
Check out our favourite celebrities who rock red dresses and get some inspiration for your own closets.
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Red Dresses For Christmas Parties
Miranda Kerr
Supermodel Miranda Kerr is a total bombshell in red. The former Victoria's Secret Angel rocked a Hervé Leger bandage dress which hugged her body just right and sat at a flattering length. It's the perfect cocktail dress for a glamorous night out, but you're going to have to find an Orlando Bloom replacement.
Nina Dobrev
“Vampire Diaries” actress Nina Dobrev is no stranger to the red party dress. The Canadian wore a structured red Elie Saab stunner to the “Argo” after-party at TIFF 2013 and chose a more sultry red cutout dress with lace sleeves to the L.A. premiere of “The Perks of Being a Wallflower."
Jennifer Hudson
Former “American Idol” winner Jennifer Hudson knows how to make her toned legs look like they go on for miles. The singer wore a long sleeve red mini dress paired with black ankle strap platforms to the 2011 Self Magazine Doing Good Awards which showed off her hourglass figure and great gams. Note: If you’re going to wear a short skirt, it’s always a good rule of thumb to cover up on top to keep things classy. Good call Jennifer!
Katie Holmes
Crooked smirk aside, we love Katie Holmes’ red Alexander McQueen and gold heels. The parted cape detail at the front and ruched waist differentiates this dress from the rest of the red pack.
Mila Kunis
If you're looking for a black tie worthy glam gown, Mila Kunis’ red Alexander McQueen SAG Awards dress is the one for you. The strapless sweetheart neckline paired with the funky print and modern belt make the dress fun and worthy of any fancy Christmas party.
Katy Perry
Speaking of glam dresses, Katy Perry rocked a stunning Dolce and Gabbana red velvet dress which could knock over your co-worker's drinks (but you'd be the most fashionable clumsy girl of the night). The extremely full albeit beautiful skirt would definitely make for a lovely option if you wanted to go all out.
Kate Bosworth
Who said blonds can’t wear red? Kate Bosworth clearly disagreed and wore an all-red ensemble which included a gorgeous formfitting Antonio Beradi dress, matching lips and pumps. If you're loving red this holiday season, you may as well be a triple-threat and deck yourself out in the festive colour.
Charlize Theron
The face of Dior perfume is more proof that blonds can do the red dress justice. Charlize wore a simple red peplum dress with an understated nude lip and strappy heels, proving that you don't have to match like Bosworth to show your holiday spirit. (Take that, Naomi Watts!)
Ginnifer Goodwin
“Once Upon a Time” actress (and newly pregnant) Ginnifer Goodwin has always had a quirky sense of style. Take the red flared dress with scalloped collar she sported at the 2012 San Diego Comic-Con; it may not bring all the boys to the yard at first glance but it has a whimsical innocent quality we love.
Jessica Biel
Holy red dress explosion! Justin Timberlake’s other half wore the red dress to end all red dresses to the 2009 Met Costume Gala in Atelier Versace. The dramatic mullet skirt and low neckline probably make it inappropriate for your casual holiday party but if you want to make a very loud impression, go for it!