Here are 9 flattering, daytime cocktail dresses for tall women

If there’s one thing that’s clear from this thread, it’s that the rules around what ‘cocktail dress’ really means have been skewed, leaving several MNers confused over what is appropriate - especially for daytime events, like charity lunches. One user, OllyBJolly, was recently faced with this dilemma, and she was in need of a cocktail dress that would fit her tall frame. 

Thankfully, PegasusReturns swooped in to offer her two cents: “I go to quite a lot of charity lunch type events and would say generally when there’s a “cocktail” dress code this means formal-ish knee/midi length dress. The sort you might wear to a wedding or ladies day at the races. Obviously no fascinators/hats.”

So, armed with this advice (thanks, Pegasus), our team at MNHQ have swiftly put together this roundup of flattering silhouettes that not only match the ‘cocktail dress’ criteria, but also aim to complement a more statuesque figure. 

Starting with this JAEGER printed midi skater dress that MoreLidlThanWaitrose found. It's made of pure linen and, most importantly, HAS POCKETS. 

JAEGER Pure Linen Printed Midi Skater Dress, £150 | Buy now from M&S

"I think this is very pretty and daytime appropriate. I kind of feel like cocktail is a bit of a ‘wear what you like’ catch all", MoreLidlThanWaitrose adds.

Prefer a mini length? We’re in love with this Mint Velvet grey ruffle dress that can be styled up or down at any time of the year.

Mint Velvet Grey Ruffle Mini Dress, £119 | Buy from Mint Velvet or John Lewis

We particularly love the fact that, despite the ruffles, this dress is quite versatile and could be accessorised up or down depending on the event and time of year. A great find by Starlight1979... "Mint Velvet is always my go to!"

While we’re on Mint Velvet… Is this natural jacquard midi dress not one of the most beautiful dresses ever?

Mint Velvet Neutral Jacquard Midi Dress, £169 | Buy now from Mint Velvet

Related: Best midi dresses for every style and budget

If your budget doesn’t quite stretch over £100, then this Karen Millen waterfall hem and high neck midi dress is equally as beautiful.

Karen Millen Tall Compact Stretch Waterfall Hem High Neck Midi Dress, £79 | Buy now from Karen Millen

Maybe don't wear this as a wedding guest to the next matrimonial event you're invited to... Leave it for ladies day, a charity lunch or brunch with your friends.

Although, this guipure lace dot pleated midi dress by Karen Millen is certainly worth the splurge IOO - just look at that detailing.

Karen Millen Tall Guipure Lace Dot Pleated Skirt Midi Dress, £159 | Buy now from Karen Millen 

According to Karen Millen, you should pair this piece with barely-there heels to ensure this dress remains the focal point on your tall frame. Which, to be honest, is great advice!

If you’re in need of something a lot less £££, and a lot more versatile, then this colourful plisse twist dress by Tu could be exactly what you’re looking for.

Tu Purple Plisse Twist Dress 20, £22 | Buy now from Tu

Want to show off your long legs but hide your arms? Then this ASOS DESIGN tall high neck mini tea dress might be just the ticket - that floral print is lovely!

ASOS DESIGN Tall High Neck Mini Tea Dress in Oxblood Floral Print, £36 | Buy now from ASOS

Love an LBD? This Sézane JOYE DRESS shows off all the right parts, and the square neckline is particularly flattering. 

Sézane Joye Dress, £150 | Buy now from Sézane

According to Mumsnet user Garlicnaan, who helped in the search for the perfect cocktail dress, "this is perfect".

This budget busting Sarah contrast ruffle midi dress from Reiss is certainly a worthy investment and best of all? You guessed it, amidst the contrast trims you’ll find pockets… 

Reiss Sarah Contrast Ruffle Midi Dress, £398 | Buy now from Reiss

About the author

Rebecca Roberts is a writer, editor, and content marketing expert hailing from Leeds. Here at Mumsnet, she commissions, writes, and edits to bring parents content designed to make life easier. After birthing and breastfeeding two babies in two years, Rebecca knows how hard it can be to prioritise yourself. So, she’s on a quest to find the best style and beauty products, with the help of Mumsnet user recommendations. 

Beyond her role as an editor here at Mumsnet, Rebecca can be found balancing life as a working mum of two toddlers and when she’s not at her desk, you’ll likely find her at a local playgroup, in a nearby coffee shop, or walking the dog up and down country lanes.

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