The possibilities for finding the perfect cocktail dress this season are unlimited. So don't settle for the same little black dress you've worn for the last five years. Step out and make an entrance. Here are a few tips for putting power dressing back in the cocktail hour:

—Don't settle for black. Yes, the little black dress may be a classic, but it can be oh so boring. Make this a year to do something a little bit out of the black box. Colorful cocktail dresses abound — red is a favorite, so is emerald green, but there are also plenty of other elegant options. Why not go for shimmering silver or icy white?

—Look for standout details. Simple can be chic, but party dresses that have sophisticated details like subtle embroidery, lace trim or feathery hems can make a festive impact. Subtlety is the key here; too much of a good thing and you will find yourself wearing your new dress on rare occasions.

—Go for classic silhouettes. When you're looking for a party dress, you don't want to invest in a dress that will become outdated as soon as New Year's Eve. You do want to look for a dress that will take you through several holiday seasons. A slim, sheath dress that you can dress up or down with accessories is your best bet. The classic dresses this holiday season pay homage to the '50s and '60s, when the martini lounges were in full swing.

—Buy one long dress. If you find a long dress that you love, snatch it up. Chances are, at some point, you will receive an invitation to an event that requires this formal length, and since this is one kind of dress that is hardest to find, it pays to have one lovingly stowed away in your closet. Think dramatic, but simply styled. If you never attend black tie or white tie events, then stick to shorter dresses. But it never hurts to have one long dress just in case your date arrives in a tuxedo to pick you up!

—Kick it up a notch. If you do want to recycle that party frock from years ago that has languished in your closet, then have fun with accessories. And no, you don't have to do the diamond thing to sparkle. There are plenty of gorgeous ways to shine — from colorful cocktail rings and dripping chandelier rhinestone earrings, to statement choker necklaces and jeweled evening clutches. Show-stopping stilettos can also give your dress new life.

—Wrap up in style. There are other ways to add some festive touches to a party dress — especially in cooler weather. It's often what you top off your dress with that makes an impression. Think beaded scarves, jeweled cardigans, fur vests or cashmere shawls. A satin trench coat is another great way to chase away chills. And my all-time favorite party cover-up? A feather boa. Feathers always add high drama!

—Take the alternate route. And if dresses just aren't your style, then think about an alternative to the cocktail circuit with separates. The menswear look is a big trend this year, and tuxedo-inspired pieces are a classic way to strut your stuff. A fabulous blouse and short skirt or tailored trousers can also do the trick. Add a few feminine touches with dazzling accessories and you have the "other" dress for party success.

Image:  Standout in bold colors, in this Adrianna Papell dress available at Nordstroms.