Brides / Chloe Jeong
Attending a black-tie wedding is a perfect opportunity to break out your glitz and glam. After all, a black-tie wedding is one of the fanciest occasions a couple can have, which begs the question, "what am I going to wear?" A black-tie dress code calls for swanky attire, from tuxedos to red carpet-worthy gowns. But fret not! With so many gorgeous formal outfits on offer, there's a black-tie ensemble out there to suit every style and budget.
What Is Black-Tie Attire?
A black-tie dress code is reserved for formal weddings and events. Guests typically wear floor-length gowns and tuxedos when attending a black-tie wedding.
Whatever your style preferences may be, there's a black-tie ensemble out there for you. To help narrow down your search, we've researched the best black-tie wedding dresses for every style, budget, and season.
Best Jewel Tone
Lulus Constantine Burgundy Satin Maxi Dress
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Lulus
Size Range: XS-XL | Colors: 7 | Material: Polyester
Nothing exudes more effortless elegance than 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: $55
Best Little Black Dress
Amanda Uprichard Queen Gown
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Revolve
Size Range: XS-XL | Colors: Black | 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
Best Gold
Sabina Musayev Ray Dress
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Revolve
Size Range: XS-XL | Colors: Gold | Material: Polyester
A wedding around the holidays calls for a festive dress. So bring on the sparkle and bring on the bows. Keep accessories simple and let this stunning dress do all the talking!
Price at time of publish: $490
Best Budget
Lulus Outstanding Elegance Deep Rose Satin Surplice Maxi Dress
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Lulus
Size Range: XS-XL | Colors: 5 | Material: Polyester, Spandex
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: $84
Best Muted Florals
Reformation Frankie Silk Dress
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Reformation
Size Range: 0-24, petite available | Colors: 4 | Material: Silk
This silk slip dress is divinely chic 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: $298
Best for Fall
Hutch Bow Tie Dress
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Anthropologie
Size Range: 00-26, petite available | Colors: Navy, Black | Material: Cotton, Spandex, Polyester
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. Made from both cotton and spandex, it's breathable and stretchy.
Price at time of publish: $218
Best for a Destination Wedding
Reformation Andee Dress
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Reformation
Size Range: 0-12 | Colors: 7 | Material: Viscose
If you're headed to a destination or summer wedding, this Reformation dress is a no-brainer. Dressy enough to adhere to a black-tie dress code and playful enough to complement a destination wedding venue—this dress is the best of both worlds.
Price at time of publish: $378
Best Strapless
Michael Costello x REVOLVE Briggs Gown
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Revolve
Size Range: XXS-XL | Colors: Black, Peach | Material: Rayon, Nylon, Spandex
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. Coming from a designer that has dressed Beyonce, Cardi B, Kim Kardashian, and Lady Gaga, this gown will surely impress.
Price at time of publish: $298
Best Navy
Reformation Ingrid Dress
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Reformation
Size Range: 0-12 | Colors: 4 | Material: Viscose
While many gravitate toward black for a black-tie wedding (with good reason), try going the navy route. The deep blue hue is sophisticated, elegant, and appropriate for any season. This number from Reformation offers a slim-fitting bodice, removable straps, and a relaxed-fitting skirt to combine style with comfort.
Price at time of publish: $378
Best Jumpsuit
Lulus Thinking Out Loud Backless Jumpsuit
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Lulus
Size Range: XXS-XL | Colors: 7 | Material: Polyester, Spandex
For those who prefer jumpsuits — they are easier to dance in — we recommend this 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: $59
Best Pink
AIIFOS Isabelle Dress
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Revolve
Size Range: XS-L | Colors: Pink | Material: Silk
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 feminine silhouettes. The dreamy silk fabric and draping fit add a whimsical touch.
Price at time of publish: $750
Best Plus-Size
Eloquii Satin Maxi Dress
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Eloquii
Size Range: 14-28 | Colors: 4 | Material: Polyester
There is nothing more flattering than a wrap dress. It cinches you at the smallest part of your waist and the best part about a "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: $140
Best Simple
BHLDN Serephina Crepe Maxi Dress
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Anthropologie
Size Range: 0-26 | Colors: 4 | Material: Polyester
For the minimalist guest, this fitted slip is a supremely sophisticated and flattering choice. Complete the look with statement earrings and dewy makeup.
Price at time of publish: $108
Best Sparkle
RetrofĂŞte Marie Dress
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Revolve
Size Range: XS/S, M/L, XL | Colors: Rose Gold, Lilac, Sage | Material: Viscose
Attending a wedding during the holidays? 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: $554
Best for Winter
Jenny Yoo Ryland Velvet Maxi Dress
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Anthropologie
Size Range: 0-26 | Colors: 5 | Material: Polyester, Spandex
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: $295
Best for a Beach Wedding
Mac Duggal Indy A-Line Ruffled Back-Lace Chiffon Gown
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Anthropologie
Size Range: 0-16 | Colors: 6 | Material: Polyester
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
Best Halter
Show Me Your Mumu Jasmine Halter Maxi Dress
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Show Me Your Mumu
Size Range: XXS-XXL | Colors: 15 | Material: Polyester
If you're looking to show off those 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: $198
Best One-Shoulder
Katie May Edgy Dress
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Revolve
Size Range: XS-XXL | Colors: Black, Blush, Sage | Material: Polyester, Spandex
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 classy sliver of skin. A touch of spandex adds just the right amount of stretch.
Price at time of publish: $295
Best Modest
Amsale Pryce Off-Shoulder Satin Column Gown
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Size Range: 0-24 | Colors: Black, Green, Champagne | Material: Polyester
For those wanting a little more coverage, we love this elegant design from Amsale. 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
What to Look For in Black-Tie Wedding Guest Outfits
Season
If you're not sure where to start, it's helpful to let the venue and season guide your decision-making process. For winter black-tie weddings, look for outfits crafted from warm and textured fabrics like lace and velvet. With long sleeves and a velvet makeup, Jenny Yoo Ryland Velvet Gown is ideal for a fall or winter wedding. For summer weddings or those set in tropical climates, you can't go wrong with chiffon and silk styles like Mac Duggal Indy A-Line Ruffled Back-Lace Chiffon Gown.
Colors
Soft pastels, as well as pretty floral prints, are perfect for spring and summer weddings, while jewel tones like emerald green, classic navy, and rich burgundy are always a fitting choice if attending winter or fall nuptials. And if you're looking for a foolproof black-tie outfit, you can never go wrong with a timeless black gown or jumpsuit, like Lulus Backless Jumpsuit.
Details
Certain details like dramatic skirts, classic necklines, and shimmering embellishments will instantly make a silhouette feel black-tie-worthy. Sparkling gold fabric turns the otherwise simple Sabina Musayev Dress into a formal frock.
Why Trust Brides
Contributing writer Sophie Moore is a former fashion editor at Brides and is an expert in all things bridal attire, from couture wedding gowns to the perfect "something blue" accessory. She researches and sources the best fashion items for brides, grooms, wedding guests, bridal parties, and more.