10 Formal Dresses to Shop For Your Next Black-Tie Event
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Though prom season is behind us, wedding season is now in full force — and there's a high probability that at least one of your events this season will have a black-tie or formal dress code. So many people have questions about what exactly this means and what's considered appropriate, so we're here to help. On most occasions, a black-tie or formal dress code means a floor-length gown. There are certain occasions where a minidress could be appropriate, but this is generally if the dress code is black-tie optional. If you're looking for something standout to wear, the below picks are worth buying right now.
From sparkling sequin picks to dresses with flirty slits, these are the black-tie dresses and formal wedding guest looks we're swooning over right now. These dresses span every major formalwear trend: ruffles, feathers, crystals, sheer, and more. Plus, there are plenty of dresses with cutouts, which is always a winner.
Whether you're headed to prom, a black-tie wedding, a gala, or just a formal dinner, the below options will fit the dress code while making you look and feel like the belle of the ball. And we found styles at some of your favorite retailers, from Nordstrom to ASOS, Revolve to Retrofete, Mac Dougal to Portia and Scarlett.
Keep on reading to shop our selects, just in time for your next formal event.
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Black Gown
ASOS Design V-Neck Maxi Dress ($135)
You can never go wrong with a long black dress. This stunning high-low design will be a wedding go-to.
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Pink Gown
Mac Duggal Pleated Ruffle Cap Sleeve Chiffon Gown ($598)
This gown features a pleated skirt and soft ruffles that perfectly balance out the dramatic plunging neckline.
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Corset Gown
For Love & Lemons X Revolve Bustier Gown ($359)
We love the color of this sage-green corset gown that embraces one of the biggest formalwear trends: lingerie as outerwear.
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Slip Dress
SER.O.YA Andie Silk Gown ($498)
Consider this gown a slip dress taken to the next level. The purple color pops against your skin, and the classic silhouette will never go out of style.
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Lace Gown
Majorelle Zelda Fitz Gown ($328)
The lace layers make this romantic gown a must have. And the sexy slit takes it to another level.
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One-Shoulder Gown
Katie May Edgy Gown ($298)
You'll feel so regal in this chest-cutout gown with a fitted silhouette and a soft pink hue.
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Cut-Out Gown
Retrofete x Revolve Giada Dress ($473, originally $525)
The cut-out trend is here to stay, and open panels at the hip make it even more alluring. This off-shoulder gown features surprise hip cutouts that demand a second look.
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Red Gown
Portia & Scarlett Red Embellished Gown ($879)
A red gown always commands attention, and this style features a plunging neckline, sheer panels, and feather shoulder detail to up the ante.
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Metallic Gown
Retrofete Evie Dress ($1,095)
This glittering dress will light up a room. We love the plunging neckline and gilded fabric.
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Silver Gown
Jovani Silver Open Back Evening Dress ($1,900)
Shine bright in a silver gown that stands out from the pack, thanks to feather trim and a sheer off-shoulder neckline.
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