Dresses for Any Occasion

Weddings, baby showers, office parties... barbeques! Spring is filled with excuses to buy a flirty new dress, so StyleList found the cutest trends for the season and matched them with the perfect occasions to wear them to. Our first find? This vibrant green v-neck. Pair it with pretty sandals for dinner parties all summer long, and keep it on hand for both day and evening weddings. T-bags Kimono dress. $163,
www.shopbop.com


Daytime Wedding
Don't limit cocktail dresses to evening events -- they're fine for daytime ceremonies as long as you choose a more conservative design. "I love a short gold or taupe dress for daytime weddings," says designer Reem Acra. To pull off this look, go for the "less is more" approach, like this timeless strapless style. David's Bridal, $105, www.davidsbridal.com

After Work Party
Target has a new collection of dresses that remind us of style icon Audrey Hepburn. When topped with a cropped jacket, this silk belted design is perfectly suited for the office. For an after-work party, lose the jacket and add heels for a flawless evening look. Isaac Mizrahi for Target Special Edition Party dress, $69.99, www.Target.com

Wedding Shower
A colorful solid dress with a soft feminine shape is ideal for daytime events like an afternoon wedding shower. This classic frock can also be dressed up for a more formal event (like a rehearsal dinner) with bright accessories or metallic accents. J. Crew Silk Chiffon Sophia Dress. $165, www.jcrew.com

Date Night
For a first date dinner, wear something flirty and sexy -- but comfy! "Wear a dress you will feel comfortable in for hours," says designer Reem Acra. The easy cut of this silk dress is flattering even if you've got a tummy and looks sweet with a simple cardigan. Nicole Miller dress, $275, www.Nicolemiller.com

Evening Wedding
Even if the wedding isn't black-tie, it's appropriate to veer on the dressy side as a guest. "A wedding is a special occasion," says Martha Stewart Editorial Director Darcy Miller. "You want the family to feel like you've made an effort." This detailed, vintage inspired dress is an ideal choice. David's Bridal Strapless Brocade Dress, $155, www.davidsbridal.com

Engagement Party
Is a short dress appropriate for a formal affair like an engagement party? Yes -- as long as the overall effect is polished and subtle. The luxe fabric of this dress makes it a perfect fit for an evening ceremony (add a shawl and kitten heels) or on its own for a formal bridal shower. ABS dress, $230, www.saks.com

Backyard Barbeque
A backyard barbeque doesn't have to mean shorts and sneakers. This sweet strapless tiered dress is perfect for a casual summer affair. For night, try it with brown leather sandals. For day, just add a pair of brightly colored flip flops... and a hot dog! Theory Trois dress, $255, www.shopbop.com

Anniversary Party
Do you have an anniversary party coming up? Thanks to the satin fabric and soft shade, this chic tiered cocktail dress has undeniable polish for a milestone event. This dress is ideal for any affair where a floor-length gown would be overkill, but where champagne toasts are expected. BCGB satin dress, $200, www.bcbg.com