SHINE BRIGHT THIS HOLIDAY

The countdown is on to finding the perfect holiday dress.

BY BLAIR SMITH

December 11, 2023

One of our favorite things about holiday dressing? There’s no better time to break out the shimmer. Sure, a sparkling mini skirt might seem like a bit much for a fall cocktail hour, but on December 31st, it’s just right. This season is all about rhinestones, stars, sequins, and gold lamé—and you can’t go wrong with any of these festive details. In this time of year, more is always more.

Lucky for us, the designers featured at South Coast Plaza know just what our fashion-lovers are looking for: an unforgettable dress, made to turn heads. These styles pair perfectly with tinsel and will carry you to New Year’s Eve and beyond. So go ahead and raise a glass of champagne and say “cheers” to the most joyful season of all.

Monique Lhuillier

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SOUTH COAST PLAZA

THE HOLIDAY DRESS EDIT

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Sequined Off-the-Shoulder Gown

BALMAIN

Put that tacky holiday sweater aside. This year, we’re about the black-tie-gala look—or maybe it’s a New Year’s Eve wedding. Regardless, this off-the-shoulder number from Balmain is sure to put you—and everyone around you—in a celebratory mood.

Level 2, Jewel Court
949.438.6152

Strapless sequined wave scallop dress

OSCAR DE LA RENTA

Part Art Deco-part sugar plum princess, this dress will have you feeling positively regal. The sequins on this incredible sheath are organized to create a gorgeous wave effect—all on the bias for a flattering look.

Level 3, Penthouse
714.754.9044

Metallic Structured Cocktail Dress

MONIQUE LHUILLIER

Go glam this New Year’s Eve, but make it a mini. This Monique Lhuillier strapless cocktail dress with structural skirt will stun with all-over metallic embroidery.

Level 1, Saks Fifth Ave Wing
714.241.4432

Blue Crêpe de Chine Dress

fendi

Reminiscent of a clear winter sky, this flowy dress is covered in stars, diamonds, and of course, Fendi’s F logos. And just like the holidays, this dress represents a family affair, as it was designed by Delfina Delettrez Fendi to celebrate the five Fendi sisters.

Level 1, Jewel Court
714.751.1111

Foiled Organzine Calf-Length Dress with Gloves

Dolce&Gabbana

This gold dress knows how to bring the drama. Cold shoulders, draped fabric—and best of all, opera gloves? Obviously. But thankfully, this pair is detachable, which means you get two looks in one incredible dress.

Level 2, Saks Fifth Avenue Wing
714.668.9142

Embroidered Organza Mini Skirt

VALENTINO

A skirt made of rhinestones? It doesn’t get more New Year’s Eve than that. We’re completely obsessed with how Valentino has styled this piece—with a slouchy gray sweater adorned with feathers at either sleeve.

Level 2, Nordstrom Wing
714.751.3300

Long-Sleeve Draped Dress

LANVIN

This straight-cut midi dress is the essence of holiday pizazz—made to fully command attention. Designed in scintillating red velvet, it features Lanvin’s signature silver eyelet over the left shoulder.

Level 2, Bloomingdale’s Wing
714.706.3240

Rillisa Sequinned Dress

MAJE

Discretion is most certainly not the vibe for this youthful, pleated dress that’s completely covered in sequins. It sparkles and shines, and will turn you into the life of the holiday party, as it moves whenever you do.

Level 2, Bloomingdale’s Wing
714.557.2842

Crystal Braided Rope Cut-Out Maxi Dress

STELLA MccARTNEY

Who needs jewelry when you have a stunning, crystal-braided rope snaking its way around your dress? This floor-length gown knows how to make an incredible impact with sexy cutouts and unexpected molded shapes.

Level 2, Between Jewel and Carousel Courts
657.273.5727

Gold Dress

Isabel Marant

Disco-inspired and covered in gold sparkle, this dress might just be the perfect New Year’s Eve dress. This 1970’s-inspired silhouette is flouncy and fun—and all about showing off the legs, so be sure to wear it with sky-high heels.

Level 1, Between Jewel and Carousel Courts
714.708.2690

Metallic Maxi Dress

SANDRO

Architectural in its construction, this piece combines a sexy, key-holed bodice with a close-fitting, flared bottom half. It picks up light wherever it goes and reflects it back with a little extra joy.

Level 1, Carousel Court
714.557.2820

Fujiko Mini Dress in Light Pink

THE WEBSTER

Take your holiday cocktail look to the next level with a leg-baring mini dress. This seductive style features a flattering square neckline, a silver triangle centered on the back, and a slit for a little extra leg.

Level 2, Between Jewel and Carousel Courts
714.754.1366

Short Dress

A|X ARMANI EXCHANGE

This fun swing dress is all about the details. Gold lamé dashes throughout, layers of sheer fabric, and a pussy bow make it a fine option for the holiday party circuit. Pair it with tall booties and you’ll be all set to go.