The Expensive-Looking Dress Brand I Buy When I Want to Fake a Designer Look

I’d like to think I have many shopping hacks up my sleeve, but faking an expensive-looking party look is one of my best-kept secrets. Knowing what to look for in terms of materials and silhouettes is one thing, but in terms of brands, there is one I have been gatekeeping until this very moment. The brand I always turn to for those designer-looking dresses is Norma Kamali. No, this brand is not under the radar by any means, but it’s one that people seem to be surprised to hear me gush about when they ask for recommendations for a cocktail, black tie, or party dress. 

The price points are extremely reasonable with my favorite styles often ringing in at around $175. The dresses are timeless, comfortable (seriously, so comfortable), and always look triple the price. Would I like to splurge on a Versace dress for some of my upcoming holiday events? Of course. But sadly that is not in the budget for me at this time in my life and luckily, Norma Kamali dresses give me the same designer look and feel for a much more approachable price point. Below, I rounded up 18 of my favorite Norma Kamali dresses for you to shop here featuring a variety of colors and styles that are perfect for all your party dressing needs and beyond. 

This silhouette is so dreamy. 

This is the epitome of holiday dressing. 

I wore this on my birthday last year and it was a huge hit. 

You can never go wrong with a classic strapless dress. 

So slinky. 

Metallics are finally making a comeback and I am so here for it. 

This neckline will make jaws drop. 

One more time in velvet. 

Red dresses are perfect for the holidays and beyond. 

No one would ever guess this was under $1000. 

Fancy a fringe moment? 

This is how you take ballet core to the party world. 

This is so insanely elegant. 

A little pricier, but it will never go out of style. 

This is an iconic Norma Kamali dress. 

I normally hate shirt dresses, but I love this one.

Cool cutouts are always a standout. 

One more metallic beauty before you go. Next: I Tried on 15 Pairs of Cult Designer Shoes—These 4 Are Worth the Hype