A Black Tie Wedding Calls for Glitz and Glamour—We Found the Best Dresses That Will Steal the Show (2024)

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Nothing exudes effortless elegance like a flowing maxi dress. This satin style in a rich burgundy is as chic as ever for fall or winter nuptials. And at an affordable price, it makes for a budget-friendly option you can wear again for any other formal occasions to come.

Price at time of publish: $76

Size Range: XS–XL | Colors: Rust, burgundy, sage, blue, olive, navy, emerald, lavender, yellow | Material: Polyester

No matter the occasion, you can never go wrong with a classic black dress. We love this one in particular for its body-hugging silhouette and sexy halter neckline. Wear with statement earrings to highlight the shoulder-baring neckline.

Price at time of publish: $260

Size Range: XS–XL | Colors: Black | Material: Polyester

A holiday wedding calls for a festive outfit. So, bring on the sparkle and the bows! Keep accessories simple and let this stunning dress do all the talking.

Price at time of publish: $490

Size Range: XS–XL | Colors: Gold | Material: Polyester

Channel old Hollywood glamour in this stunning, floor-sweeping gown. The thigh-high split not only adds an element of sexiness, but it's also elongating, to boot. With various color options to choose from, this dress is appropriate for a black-tie affair at any time of the year.

Price at time of publish: $109

Size Range: XS–XL | Colors: Sage, teal, rose, mustard | Material: Polyester, spandex

This silk slip dress is a divinely chic option for the guest who loves clean and classic silhouettes. Timeless and on-trend, this Reformation number features a classic floral print and a square neckline. We also love how it's available in both petite and extended sizes.

Price at time of publish: $149+

Size Range: 0–24, petite available | Colors: Green, teal, lavender, eggshell, rose, black | Material: Silk

Equal parts eye-catching and sophisticated, this two-tone dress is a show-stopping option for a black-tie wedding. The combination of classic black and rich bronze is perfect for an autumn affair. Bonus: this gown is made from both cotton and spandex, which means it's breathable and stretchy.

Price at time of publish: $218+

Size Range: 00–26, petite and plus available | Colors: Navy, black | Material: Cotton, spandex, polyester

Attending a wedding is an investment, so invest in a dress that you'll wear again and again. This elegant strapless gown would make a timeless addition to any formal wardrobe. From a designer who has dressed Beyonce, Cardi B, Kim Kardashian, and Lady Gaga, this gown will surely impress.

Price at time of publish: $298

Size Range: XXS–XL | Colors: Black, peach, ivory | Material: Rayon, nylon, spandex

For those who prefer jumpsuits (they are definitely easier to dance in!) we recommend this sexy number from Lulus. With a plunging neckline and criss-cross back, the style looks way more expensive than its true price. But hey, you're secret is safe with us.

Price at time of publish: $47+

Size Range: XXS–XL | Colors: Black, white, royal blue, magenta, hunter green, navy | Material: Polyester, spandex

Pretty pink hues are always a good idea for spring and summer nuptials. We love this shimmering pink frock for the guest who is drawn to romantic, feminine silhouettes. The dreamy silk fabric and draping fit add a whimsical touch.

Price at time of publish: $525

Size Range: XS–L | Colors: Pink | Material: Silk

There is nothing more flattering than a wrap dress—it cinches you at the smallest part of your waist for a figure-flattering look. The best part about this "faux wrap" is that you don't have to bother with retying it or worry about anything falling out of place. Don't be intimated by the shoulder pads—they add just the right amount of definition to your silhouette.

Price at time of publish: $49+

Size Range: 14–28 | Colors: Black, periwinkle, magenta, mauve | Material: Polyester

Attending a wedding during the holidays or on New Year's Eve? This captivating gown made from all-over sequin embellishments is a striking choice for any formal occasion that calls for festive attire.

Price at time of publish: $615

Size Range: XS/S, M/L, XL | Colors: Rose gold, black/gold, sage | Material: Viscose

A long sleeved, velvet dress is the best option for a winter wedding, where you want to look sophisticated but still stay warm. This design has a striking plunge front and back, but rest assured that an illusion panel completes the bodice, and the back can be worn with or without a snap-on strap. Coming in a range of winter shades and plus sizes, it's a universal winner.

Price at time of publish: $200+

Size Range: 0–26 | Colors: Sage, rose, emerald, berry, navy | Material: Polyester, spandex

Wondering what to wear to a black-tie wedding on or by the beach? Opt for this breezy floor-length gown with a show-stopping lace-up back. Wear yours with a pair of wedges and your hair in loose waves for the ultimate seaside look.

Price at time of publish: $598

Size Range: 0–16 | Colors: Red, pink, yellow, green, blue, white, black | Material: Polyester

If you're looking to show off your shoulders and arms, go with a halter-neck dress. Coming in 15 different shades, this satin style can suit a variety of settings and seasons. Do note that it runs large, so consider sizing down.

Price at time of publish: $178

Size Range: XXS–XXL | Colors: Silver, gold, blush, copper, ivory, rose, sage, olive, emerald | Material: Polyester

Perfect for those with broad shoulders, this asymmetrical design balances your top half while showing off your arms. It also features a back cutout for a sliver of skin that still feels classy. A touch of spandex adds just the right amount of stretch.

Price at time of publish: $295

Size Range: XS–XXL | Colors: Black, blush, sage | Material: Polyester, spandex

If you want a little more coverage, this elegant design from Amsale will steal the show. There's no slit and the cowl neck modestly shows off your shoulder while providing coverage up to your elbow. The column skirt is slightly fitted at the waist and hips.

Price at time of publish: $495

Size Range: 0–24 | Colors: Black, green, champagne | Material: Polyester

When the invitation says black tie, velvet is an obvious choice. Jenny Yoo's Logan Gown is is perfectly stretchy, hugging your curves without making you feel too constricted. We also like how the deep V-neckline and plunging back help you show some skin without sacrificing sophistication.

Price at time of publish: $290

Size Range: 0–19, plus available | Colors: Rose, berry, emerald, navy | Material: Velvet, polyester

Silk is always a good bet for a black-tie affair. This stunning dress from Reformation flaunts a flattering crewneck, cap sleeves, a fitted bodice, and an ankle-length drop skirt with a flirty high slit.

Price at time of publish: $378+

Size Range: 0–12 | Colors: Navy, green, mauve | Material: Silk

FAQ

• What is a black-tie dress code?

  A black-tie dress code is usually reserved for formal weddings. Floor-length gowns and tuxedos are classic examples of this type of attire.

• What should a wedding guest wear to a black-tie wedding?

  Guests attending a black-tie wedding typically wear floor-length evening gowns. Formal dresses in black and navy are also a popular choice for black-tie weddings as are gowns with allover embellishments. For men and people who choose to not wear gowns, a tuxedo is worn (hence the reference to "black tie").

• Can I wear a short dress to a black-tie wedding?

  Short dresses are typically more appropriate for less formal weddings. If you’re not sure whether your dress fits the dress code,run your outfit by the couple or opt for a floor-length gown to err on the safe side.

• Do I have to spend a lot of money on a black-tie dress?

  Not if you don't want to! As this list demonstrates, you can find black-tie options that are below $100, such as Lulus Constantine Satin Maxi Dress. More important than price tag, make sure your dress is the right length, color, and made from materials that look high quality and suit the season and venue.
  

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