It’s sala season again, a time for painting our faces, teasing our hair, and slipping into sparkly dresses all to sit on abuela’s plastic-covered sofa between the tía asking, “¿Y el novio?” and the prima who’s there to save us.
Whether you’re doing Friendsgiving with your amiguis, hitting the office holiday party, dining with your family on Nochebuena, or smooching with a lucky someone on the dance floor on New Year’s Eve, there’s plenty to celebrate (and plenty of invites that call for glamorous fits). We want to make sure you look and feel amazing in your festive looks.
We’ve gathered some head-turning dresses that are perfect for any holiday event. Each piece is by a Latina designer or a Latina-owned brand, so you’ll also be giving back to the community.
All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.
Carolina K‘s Lima Dress is for the one who isn’t afraid of statement-making red. The sleeveless, floor-length knit dress by the Argentine-Bolivian designer features soutache embroidery at the neckline and a diagonal fringe detail across the skirt. It provides the perfect mix of elegance and fun for any office holiday party.
Carolina K Carolina K’s Red Lima Dress, $, available at Carolina K
If you want to bare a bit more skin, consider this scarlet mini dress from Brazilian-owned Farm Rio. It’s not just the Christmasy red that makes this piece perfect for the holidays — it’s the details. Adorned with striking 3D rose appliqués that cascade asymmetrically from the neckline to the hem and sleeve, this one-shoulder cut dress brings texture, elegance, and sensuality. Wear it to the festive soirée where you want to turn heads.
Farm Rio Farm Rio’s Red Roses One-Shoulder Mini Dress, $, available at Farm Rio
There’s nothing like sparkling in the winter. She’s Golden Boutique‘s Holiday Pearls dress has everything you need to twinkle under the holiday lights. This black velvet ruched midi dress hugs the body while the pearl details catch every glimmering light. It’s elegant, sexy, and made for your New Year’s Eve plans.
She’s Golden Boutique She’s Golden Boutique’s Holiday Pearls Midi Dress, $, available at She’s Golden Boutique
Those in warmer climates can don light, breezy dresses that still feel festive, and for you, there’s Persona’s Tania Backless Dress. This taupe, silky dress has delicate straps that reveal collarbones, shoulders, and back. Meanwhile, its high, asymmetrical cut shows off the legs, too. It’s a flirty, holiday-ready dress that’s perfect for a date at a Christmas pop-up bar.
Persona Persona’s Tania Backless Dress, $, available at Persona
If you want a classic New York winter look, go with Venezuelan designer Carolina Herrera’s Floral Lace Short-Sleeve Illusion Dress. From the high, round neckline to the knee-length hem, this all-black, A-line silhouette features floral lace that will bring posh and sophistication to the gathering.
Carolina Herrera Carolina Herrera Floral Lace Short-Sleeve Illusion Dres, $, available at Neiman Marcus
Green is a holiday color that, in my opinion, isn’t worn enough. You can change that by wearing Cindy Castro’s Vanessa Slip Dress in kiwi to the holiday party. The New York-based, Latina-owned luxury women’s brand is rooted in climate and social justice, and this piece is crafted in 100% silk charmeuse. The midi-length slip dress is sexy whether you wear it on its own or layered under your warmer winter staples.
Cindy Castro Cindy Castro’s Vanessa Slip Dress, $, available at Cindy Castro
Go full glam with Del Carmen’s Anything for Selenas Dress. This burgundy, form-fitting maxi dress features a low neckline that’s both daring and elegant. It’s the attention-grabbing dress you’ll want to wear with a date or homegirl at a holiday party or New Year’s Eve celebration.
Del Carmen Del Carmen’s Anything the Selenas Maxi Dress, $, available at Del Carmen
Sometimes, the most glamorous holiday look is a slicked ponytail, red lipstick, and a dress that commands attention. Helsi’s Audrey is that dress. This all-black maxi features a fitted, structured bodice and a classically flared skirt. Whether you wear the adjustable piece with straps or without, eyes will still be on the floral-embroidered mesh fabric that bares just enough leg. It’s perfect for any holiday soirée.
Helsi Helsi’s Black Audrey Dress, $, available at Helsi
If you want to hold on to your title as the most fashionable member of your family, enter Nochebuena dinner in Bella + Rein’s Freya Dress. This burgundy mini dress features white accent hems and flared sleeves that feel festive. Meanwhile, its thick, stretchy knit will keep you warm and comfortable all evening.
Bella + Rein Bella + Rein’s Freya Dress, $, available at Bella + Rein
Regardless of where you end up this sala season, there’s nothing that will ruin a fit more than a bra strap. That’s why, no matter which dress you plan to stunt in, Nood’s bra alternatives are a good idea. The Mexican American-owned brand makes high-quality shape tape, nipple covers, adhesive bras, push-up pads, and more to keep your look flawless without any wardrobe malfunctions.
Nood Nood’s Double Up Triangle Push Up Pads, $, available at Nood
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