Best Black
Cinq à Sept Dorrit Halter Gown
You can't go wrong with something black for formal wear. The eternally chic color choice allows for repeat wears, if you have a few formal weddings on your roster, as well as a no-show backdrop for those accidental spills or sweat stains. This halter gown has plenty of gathers, twists and even a front-slit skirt to show off the right amount of skin, too.
Sizes: 0-12 US
Fabric: 54% Polyester, 39% Viscose, 7% Elastane
Colors: Black
Best for Summer
Staud Embellished Satin Maxi Dress
Staud's aqua blue gown is perfect for your next summer wedding or warm-weather destination nuptials. The tonal, beaded neckline and back straps add an element of playfulness to the silky slip silhouette. Pair with a simple earring and metallic, strappy pumps for a modern feel.
Sizes: 0-16 US
Fabric: 76% Acetate, 24% Polyester
Colors: Blue
Best Ruffled
Carolina Herrera Rose Print Silk Gown
Carolina Herrera is always a smart go-to for black-tie moments because any gown will always be a timeless staple that will last a lifetime in your closet. This vibrant rose print, soft ruffles and off-the-shoulder silhouette feels just romantic enough to work in every wedding venue you could think of.
Sizes: 0-12 US
Fabric: 100% Silk
Colors: Red Multi Color
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Best Budget
Norma Kamali Crêpe Satin Gown
orma Kamali's crêpe back satin gown is cut on the bias, and the minimalist tank shape is a customer favorite. We love this bold purple hue for a bold twist that'll stand out at black ties without not following what's expected. Keep things grounded with a no-frills shoe and personal jewelry for a '90s-inspired spin.
Sizes: XXS-XL
Fabric: 100% Polyester
Colors: Purple
Most Classic
Chiara Boni La Petite Robe Halter Neck Cascade Ruffle Gown
Now 60% Off
Elegant and sleek, a column dress in gown length is a no-brainer for formal nuptials. The high-neck is extremely flattering on all body types, while the nipped waist adds definition to the form. A cascade of ruffles finishes things off for a charming option that is sure to garner compliments—and double takes.
Sizes: 2-16 US
Fabric: 72% Polyamide, 28% Elastane
Colors: Black
Most Romantic
Bernadette Delilah Taffeta Gown
The mother and daughter design duo behind Bernadette know a thing or two about formalwear dressing. And what makes this gown special is the details. Made from taffeta—one of the brand's signature fabrics—the simple halter-neck shape with full, floor-sweeping skirt is adorned with intricate beading in a floral motif.
Sizes: 34-46 FR
Fabric: 78% Polyester, 20% Polyamide, 2% Elastane
Colors: Pink
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Most Modern
Cinq à Sept Marian Side Ruched Gown
This two-in-one dress blends the structure and definition of stretch fabric and a fitted bodice with the effortless draping of a silky wrap skirt. The soft pink color feels right for a romantic affair, while the leg-slit keeps things from feeling too sacrine. Wear with diamanté earrings and a silver shoe for an easy outfit idea.
Sizes: 0-14 US
Fabric: 54% Polyester, 39% Viscose, 7% Elastane
Colors: Peony Pink
Most Sustainable
Rebecca Vallance Phaedra Recycled-Lamé Gown
Dressing sustainably for a formal affair might seem impossible, but Rebecca Vallance proves otherwise. This gold, lamé stunner is made from recycled materials, so you can still look chic while feeling good about what you are wearing. We love the rosette appliqué, softly ruched bodice and slitted skirt for an up-to-date evening look.
Sizes: 4-14 UK
Fabric: 100% Recycled Polyester
Colors: Marigold
Best Sequined
Simkhai Dione Sequined Gown
Dazzle at your next wedding with a sequined gown that hits all the right style notes. The floor-length, tank dress has a simple column silhouette, but with a revealing, lower back cutout for a little something extra. The scooped neckline also allows for no-show bra pairings, thanks to straps that will hide anything underneath.
Sizes: 0-14
Fabric: 30% Polyamide, 5% Elastane, 65% Viscose
Colors: Black
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Best Draped
Galvan Ushuaia Satin Gown
Evening wear is a specialty at Galvan, and their silky satin pieces are always a great choice for black-tie. This bias-cut gown has a fluid shape that skims the figure just so, making it ideal for those who prefer something that does not hug the body too tightly. The unique neckline has an asymmetrical shape that falls into an elegant ties that hang down the bodice beautifully.
Sizes: 34-44 FR
Fabric: 80% Triacetate, 20% Polyester
Colors: Ice Blue
Best Statement-Making
Emilia Wickstead Ashai Taffeta Gown
Now 50% Off
Shape and proportion are always in high consideration for Emilia Wickstead. This stunning gown is made from taffeta that has been folded at the bodice and then dramatically draped into a full train. The contemporary shape is sure to make a statement while the floral bouquet print keeps things from becoming too over-the-top. Wear with a pointed kitten heels and pearl earrings to play up the English garden vibes.
Sizes: 6-14 UK
Fabric: 100% Polyester
Colors: Burgundy
Best Body-Con
The Sei Sequined Gown
Thankfully, today's black-tie dress code doesn't mean stuffy. This holographic dress still feels appropriate for formal events without feeling outdated. The plunging, deep-v front and high, side split, also keep it sexy but sophisticated.
Sizes: XS-L
Fabric: 90% Polyamide, 5% Elastane, 5% Metallic Fibres
Colors: Metallic
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Best Pleated
A.L.C. Nessa Pleated Gown
A.L.C.'s one-shouldered gown feels exactly like what a modern goddess would wear. Blending a bit of ethereal energy with a touch of the Studio 54 disco era, the flattering empire waist falls into sweeping pleats for a dress that will keep you dancing all night long. Wear with gold jewelry and a lace-up shoe to nail the mood.
Sizes: 00-14 US
Fabric: 100% Polyester
Colors: Torta
Best Ruched
Alejandra Alonso Rojas Ruched Charmeuse Gown
Alejandra Alonso Rojas' designs have defined what a modern woman's evening wear wardrobe should look like. Her charmeuse gown styles are ever popular, thanks to meticulous draping and vibrant color ways. This sleeveless number features a high-neck, ruched bodice and leg-slit—all in a bold coral that's perfect for a night out.
Sizes: 2-10 US
Fabric: 100% Silk
Colors: Arrecife
Most Elegant
Amanda Uprichard Fabianna Gown
Now 40% Off
Effortlessness is the key to nailing any black-tie look. A simple, navy silk gown, like this Amanda Prichard version, is uncomplicated with just the right amount of tailoring. Conservative on top, the billowy blouse drapes into a fitted waist, which then reveals a long fluid skirt with a slit. When it comes to accessories, drop earrings, a clutch and heels are really all you need.
Sizes: XS-XL
Fabric: 100% Silk
Colors: Ink
Lauren Caruso is a freelance writer, consultant, and digital media strategist that splits her time between NYC and Los Angeles. She has more than ten years of experience within the publishing industry with a focus on fashion, beauty, and lifestyle, with tenures at Refinery29, Allure, and The Zoe Report.
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