Is it too early to begin the search for the perfect Christmas party dress? The answer is a resounding no!
We're always ready to inject sequins, shimmer and glitzy textures into our wardrobes, and this season we've got a soft spot for chainmail.
What is chainmail?
French singer-songwriter Francoise Hardy a chainmail piece by Paco Rabanne in 1968
Created from metal or metal-like material linked together, chainmail has a mesmerising quality to it. Armour-like and dazzling, the fabric is a party classic, and, most importantly, it looks absolutely sensational on the dance floor.
Spanish label Rabanne, as it's now known, is best known for its unbelievably glamorous chainmail pieces. Remember that dress worn by style icon Francoise Hardy? Paco Rabanne dressed his Parisian singer-songwriter muse in over 1,000 gold plates inlaid with diamonds, forming what was thought to be the most expensive dress in the world at the time.
Cutout Chainmail Mini Dress
Fannie Schiavoni
The Details
- Composition: 100% Stainless Steel
- Sizes: XS-M
A proper show-stopper of a dress with hints of Pretty Woman and her iconic blue and white mini. Pair with orange accessories.
Chainmail Mini Dress
8 Other Reasons
The Details
- Composition: 100% Aluminum
- Sizes: One Size
This Australian label makes unapologetically sexy pieces and this skimpy chainmail number is no exception. Team with a navy coat.
Blane Silver Rhinestone Dress
Finesse
The Details
- Composition: 50% Aluminum, 50% Glass
- Sizes: XS-S-2X/3X
Super flirty with a thigh high split and an open back, turn heads in this silver offering. Team with the matching choker (£16.00).
Silver Rhinestone Fishnet Maxi Dress
Self-Portrait
The Details
- Composition: 96% Polyester 4% Elastane
- Sizes: 4-16
Proving that chainmail dresses don't need to be itsy-bitsy, this long length version by Self-Portrait oozes elegance.
Calliope Luxury Crystal Maxi Party Dress
Oceanus
The Details
- Composition: Power Mesh Base & Crystals
- Sizes: XS-XXL
Pay homage to the trend in something that offers a little more coverage in this spectacular crystal beaded midi dress - available in five colours.
Metal Chain Link Dress
Weekday
The Details
- Composition: Steel 100%
- Sizes: XS/S-M/L
A proper statement piece with rounded neckline and midi-length. Team with a black bodysuit and not much else, if you're brave enough.
Chainmail Strappy Midi Dress
Karen Millen
The Details
- Composition: Plastic
- Sizes: One Size
A proper Rabanne tribute with supersize paillettes that will make a gorgeous noise as you strut your way across the dancefloor.
Oceane Green Disc Sequin Dress
Amy Lynn
The Details
- Composition: 100% Polyester
- Sizes: XXS-XL
A racerback dress with square neckline that offers a little more coverage than its slinky alter-egos but is still in keeping with the 60s aesthetic the trend is famous for.
Brown Leopard Print Chainmail Cowl Shift Dress
Pretty Little Thing
The Details
- Composition: 100% Metallic Fibres
- Sizes: S-L
It's not everyday you see a leopard print chainmail dress, and we're fans! Pair with red accessories and gold jewellery.
Strappy Chainmail Maxi Dress in Khaki
ASOS
The Details
- Composition: 78% Polyester, 22% Metallic Fibres
- Sizes: XS-L
A soft khaki shade, with proper coverage (no peekaboo moments here), with a soft cowl neckline and thigh high split. Team with silver accessories.
How we chose:
- Style: We followed the sparkle, combing through through the internet's top fashion sites for the best styles, we made sure that each of our picks felt glitzy and standout and party season-appropriate.
- Price: Whether you're planning on splashing out or bagging a bargain, we've got a piece in your price range. We've selected this season's most stylish chainmail dresses, ranging from affordable high street and mid-level brands to luxe designer labels.
Why you should trust me:
Working in fashion is simultaneously the best and worst thing that’s ever happened to me because spending all day surrounded by gorgeous pieces and trends lit a fire under my (already substantial) shopping habit. I love to shop. I live to shop. In a previous life, I worked in Personal Shopping, and I’m the person to take out with you if you want to be wholeheartedly talked into a purchase.
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