Black-tie weddings mean floor-length gowns and elevated cocktail dresses. Think rich fabrics — satin, silk, chiffon, tulle, and velvet — in styles reminiscent of the red carpet. However, what at a black-tie wedding guest dress doesn’t need to be is black (unless the invitation specifies it does). If you’re stressed about what to wear to an upcoming black-tie wedding (even where to look) we’re here to help with a roundup of the best black-tie wedding guest dresses.
We’ve scoured the internet for floor-sweeping gowns and elevated midi-length dresses from retailers like Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, Anthropologie, and Revolve. Find luxe gemstone hues, floral prints, striking abstract designs, and a few chic black gowns with subtle embellishments. All that’s left is for you to grab your wedding essentials, spritz your favorite perfume, and step into your most comfortable party shoes for the night. Get ready to feel and look your very best — our stunning picks will surely grant you a spot on the best-dressed list.
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One-Tone Black Tie Wedding Dresses
Unless you’re a minimalist who lives in black and navy, don’t feel like you have to constrict yourself to dark-hued numbers. Shine in radiant green with a silhouette that brings the perfect amount of drama and elegance without overshadowing the bride.
Shop Norma Kamali at Revolve
Norma Kamali Diana Gown, $, available at Revolve
Free People Look Into The Sun Gown, $, available at Free People
BHLDN Ruby Twist Halter Satin Gown, $, available at Anthropologie
Alamour The Label Sarelle, $, available at Alamour The Label
& Other Stories V-Neck Wrap Dress, $, available at & Other Stories
Lulus Broadway Show Navy Blue High-Low Maxi Dress, $, available at Lulus
Bronx and Banco Florence Strapless A-Line Bustier Gown, $, available at Bergdorf Goodman
Elevated Black Tie Wedding Dresses
Turn heads in a gown that brings personality to your wedding guest look. Opt for florals in all colors of the rainbow, romantic eyelet styles, and striking abstract designs that are mesmerizing to look at.
Shop Reformation
Reformation Veria Silk Dress, $, available at Reformation
Lauren Ralph Lauren Floral Georgette One-Shoulder Gown, $, available at Ralph Lauren
ASOS Batwing Chiffon Midi Dress With Floral Embroidery, $, available at ASOS Edition Curve
Farm Rio Red Guipure Cut Out Midi Dress, $, available at Farm Rio
Karen Millen Slinky Knit Mirrored Jacquard Geo Chain Strap Maxi Dres, $, available at KAREN MILLEN
Black-Colored Black Tie Wedding Dresses
Exude old-school Hollywood glamour in a classy black gown with a 2023 twist. We’ve chosen numbers with subtle details that shine: glistening embellishments, balloon sleeves with delicate cinched wrists, and sultry leg slits for a peekaboo look.
Shop Mac Duggal at Saks Fifth Avenue
Mac Duggal Fabulouss Sequin One Shoulder Side Cutout Gown, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue
Michael Lo Sordo Crystal-Embellished Silk-Satin Gown, $, available at Net-A-Porter
Eloquii Satin Maxi Dress, $, available at Eloquii
Adrianna Papell Illusion Mermaid Gown, $, available at Bloomingdale’s
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