Celebrity-Inspired Outfit Ideas for Parties

Zendaya once took “cocktail casual” literally at a jewelry launch party, wearing a frothy marigold-and-pink Marc Jacobs frock covered in ostrich feathers. This playful mini dress – complete with a fluffy skirt and colorful ombré trim – shows how a bold print or texture can turn a simple cocktail dress into a statement. (Zendaya even joked that “the invitation said cocktail casual,” embracing the fun vibe.) Take a cue from her look by choosing a vibrant feather-trim or fringe mini in shades of pink, yellow or pastels, and balance it with simple nude heels. Likewise, Rihanna’s early party formula was remarkably low-key – a slinky cocktail dress and one big accessory (like a chunky bangle) – proving that sometimes one standout element is enough to shine.

 

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• Dress: Pick a bright or patterned mini dress. Feather-trim details (like Zara’s neon satin feather dress at ~$90) or fringe add instant drama.

• Shoes: Go for sleek sandals or pumps (nude, black or a coordinating color). Keep straps simple if the dress is busy.

• Accessories: Let one piece pop – e.g. oversized hoops or a cuff bracelet. Feather or sequin dresses look chic with minimal jewelry.

• Styling Tip: Opt for a tailored fit. Even a bold feathered mini looks modern when the cut is sleek. Try shopping fast-fashion or rental sites (ASOS, H&M, Zara) for luxe-inspired cocktail dresses, or DIY by adding feather trim to a basic sheath.

Birthday Bash Looks: Rihanna & Harry Styles

 

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For birthday parties or club nights, think color and glam. Rihanna has long shown that you can dress down with style – at one New Year’s Eve bash she actually arrived in luxe designer pajamas and still “was best-dressed”. Take inspiration by mixing comfort with shine: a silky pajama set or velvet blazer can look sexy and fun. Alternatively, channel Harry Styles’ disco-era flair. At Coachella he wore a plunging, rainbow-sequined Gucci two-piece (a tank top and high-waist pants) that sparkled under the lights. You can’t go wrong with sequins or metallics on the dance floor – try a glittery jacket, a beaded top, or even a full sequined suit to catch every flash. Layer playfully: Rih might wear a slinky slip dress with strappy heels for an album launch, while Harry might mix a floral shirt with flared trousers for a retro feel.

• Mix Comfort & Sparkle: Match relaxed pieces with flashy accents. A silky camisole and shorts set with bold jewelry, or a velour tracksuit paired with statement earrings, can look party-ready.

• Go Neon or Sequin: Don’t shy from bright colors or all-over shine. Even a graphic T-shirt under a leather jacket and rainbow belt (a la Harry) stands out in a crowd.

• Bold Prints: Consider one-of-a-kind prints – animal, paisley or psychedelic patterns – to up the fun factor. Think Harajuku-inspired street style for a birthday dance-off.

Red Carpet Glamour: Zendaya, Blake Lively & Timothée Chalamet

Nothing says “glam party” like red carpet couture. Zendaya set the bar when she arrived at the 2022 Emmys in a strapless black Valentino gown with a sweetheart neckline and oversized bow belt. The look was pure Old Hollywood: monochrome elegance accentuated by a show-stopping Bulgari diamond necklace (pictured). Zendaya at the 2022 Emmys in Valentino (peplum bustier, bow belt). Mirror her elegance by choosing a structured black gown or a tuxedo-jacket gown. A classic silhouette in luxurious fabric (satin, chiffon, or brocade) + statement jewelry will give that red-carpet effect.

Blake Lively at the 2024 LACMA Gala in a rose-gold crystal-embellished mini dress. Blake Lively also proves red-carpet style can be playful and modern: at the 2024 LACMA Art+Film Gala she wore a mini dress encrusted with rose-gold and pink crystals, paired with a dramatic silk cape. The end result was youthful and bold – a reminder that even formal looks can be sparkly. To recreate Blake’s vibe, look for cocktail minis or sheath dresses with beading, sequins or metallic threads. Shorter hems with high-heels and a chic updo strike the perfect balance between party and glamour.

For men, Timothée Chalamet shows how to break black-tie rules while staying polished. At the 2024 Golden Globes he ditched plain black for a sequined Celine blazer and slim trousers, proving a little shine goes a long way. A jewel-toned or velvet suit jacket, patterned tuxedo shirt, or even a subtly bejeweled lapel can elevate your evening look. Finish with polished shoes (loafers or patent oxfords) and minimal accessories so the suit stands out.

• Fit is Everything: Tailored tailoring – no baggy hems. Whether it’s a gown or a suit, have it hemmed to flatter your body.

• Statement Accessories: Necklaces, bow ties, or cufflinks in luxe materials (pearls, satin, crystal) add polish. One bold piece (earrings, tie pin) can complete a look.

• Color & Texture: If black feels too safe, try navy, emerald or burgundy velvet. Women can choose jewel-toned gowns; men can pick a silk shirt or patterned blazer.

Themed Party Vibes: Futuristic & Fantasy

When the dress code is themed (e.g. disco night, costume party, or holiday gala), channel your inner style icon and go all-out. Zendaya famously embraced a full-on sci-fi vibe at the Dune: Part Two premiere: she wore a metallic archival Thierry Mugler “cyborg” catsuit from 1995, complete with built-in gloves and silver panels. (No one has done futuristic like her!) To capture that spirit for, say, a space or costume party, seek out silver or holographic fabrics – a fitted silver jumpsuit or an armor-like corset top with vinyl pants can give a touch of “galactic glam.” Similarly, Harry Styles’ Gucci Coachella look is perfect for a disco party: multicolor sequins, feather boa or platform boots all scream party. Think Studio 54: glittery jackets, flared jumpsuits, or even a mirrored mini-dress.

• Embrace the Theme: Go literal (robot, mermaid, retro) or abstract (neon lights, celestial). The goal is fun – so mix and match pieces like faux fur, feathers, or painted body jewels.

• Layer and Play: A themed outfit often works as separates. For example, a metallic skirt with a graphic tee for a space twist, or a bedazzled vest over a sheer top.

• Accessorize Big: Oversized sunglasses, LED jewelry, or a statement headpiece can tie a themed look together. Don’t be afraid of costume shops or Etsy for unique finds.

No matter the party, the key is confidence. As Zendaya, Blake, Timothée and Rihanna show us: even a wildly different look can work when it’s worn with flair. Mix high and low (vintage gowns with thrifted capes, or designer shoes with Zara dresses), and you’ll look like you just stepped off the red carpet – at a price you can afford.