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 a popular choice for black-tie weddings, as are gowns with allover embellishments. Men and people who choose not to wear dresses should wear a tuxedo (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 unsure 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?

Only if you want to! You can find black-tie wedding guest dresses that are under $100. However, a black-tie event is an occasion that's often worth splurging for. More important than the price tag, though, is to make sure your dress is the correct length and color, is made from materials that look high quality, and suits the season and venue.

The 24 Best Black-Tie Wedding Guest Dresses of 2024

People wearing black-tie wedding guest dresses on a green background — Brides / Amelia Manley

Attending a black-tie wedding is perfect for breaking out your glitz and glam. After all, a black-tie wedding is one of the fanciest occasions a couple can have. A black-tie dress code calls for swanky attire, from tuxedos to red carpet-worthy gowns. When browsing options, you'll want to consider the season and wedding venue. Then, look for fancier materials like silk, satin, velvet, chiffon, or organza. "Satin and silk are great for both winter and summer black-tie events. Jersey, velvet, and taffeta can all be great options and can read very luxe and expensive in a gown that doesn't have to cost thousands," says Ashlyn Greer, a professional stylist and the co-founder and CEO of Fashivly.

Pay attention to the silhouette and other details, such as the neckline and bodice. "If you don't have a classic black gown in your closet and this is your first black-tie event, focus on finding that piece as it's something that can be re-worn for lots of black-tie events in the future, and it will never go out of style," Greer adds. To help narrow your search, we've researched the best black-tie wedding dresses for every style, size, body type, budget, and season.

Our Top Picks

Best Little Black Dress:

Amanda Uprichard Queen Gown at Revolve

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Best Bow:

Hutch Bow Tie Dress at Anthropologie $218

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Most Elegant:

Sachin & Babi Makayla One-Shoulder Gown at Sachinandbabi.com

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Best Sleeves:

Mac Duggal Illusion Long Sleeve A-Line Gown at Nordstrom

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Best Gold:

Sabina Musayev Metallic Dress at Revolve

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Best for a Destination Wedding:

BHLDN Stretch Satin Strapless Side-Slit Maxi Dress at Anthropologie $248

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Best Jewel Tone:

Lulus Satin Maxi Dress at Lulus

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Best Designer:

Danielle Frankel Harper Crepe Satin Slip Gown at Saks Fifth Avenue

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Best for Spring:

Maria Lucia Hohan Klair Gown at Revolve

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Best Plus-Size:

Eloquii Satin Maxi Dress at Amazon

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Best Little Black Dress

Amanda Uprichard Queen Gown

PHOTO: Revolve

View on Revolve

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 halter neckline. You can wear it with statement earrings to highlight the shoulder-baring silhouette.

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

Best Bow

Hutch Bow Tie Dress

PHOTO: Anthropologie

$218 at Anthropologie View on Renttherunway.com

Equal parts eye-catching and sophisticated, this two-tone dress is a show-stopping option for a black-tie wedding. The combination of classic neutral and bold color options means it's perfect for any time of the year. Bonus: This gown is made from cotton and spandex, making it breathable and stretchy.

Size Range: 00P–26W | Colors: 4 | Material: Cotton, spandex, polyester

Most Elegant

Sachin & Babi Makayla One-Shoulder Gown

PHOTO: Anthropologie

View on Sachinandbabi.com

Look like a colorful Greek goddess in this undeniably gorgeous gown from Sachin & Babi. The luxurious chiffon fabric drapes like flowing water across your body, while the one-shoulder balloon sleeve, thigh-high slit, and flattering waistband give the design structure.

Size Range: 0–15 | Colors: Blue | Material: Chiffon

Best Sleeves

Mac Duggal Illusion Long Sleeve A-Line Gown

PHOTO: Nordstrom

View on Nordstrom View on Saks Fifth Avenue

Regal and elegant, this Victorian-inspired gown would be perfect for a vineyard venue or a holiday wedding. The sheer billowed sleeves, plunging V-neckline, wrapped bodice, and flowing floor-length skirt make this Mac Duggal gown a standout.

Size Range: 4-14 | Colors: Garnet | Material: 100% polyester

Best Gold

Sabina Musayev Metallic Dress

PHOTO: Revolve

View on Revolve

Are you attending a holiday wedding this year? These events call for festive outfits, so bring on the sparkle and bows! Keep accessories simple and let this stunning dress do all the talking.

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

Best for a Destination Wedding

BHLDN Stretch Satin Strapless Side-Slit Maxi Dress

Woman wearing Sachin & Babi Stretch Satin Strapless Side-Slit Maxi Dress

$248 at Anthropologie

We can't think of a better dress for a black-tie wedding in a tropical locale than this vibrant number. It features comfortable stretch satin, a strapless neckline, a slim-fitting silhouette, and a sexy high slit—not to mention the stunning light blue shade and colorful floral pattern perfect for a destination wedding.

Size Range: 0–16 | Colors: Light blue | Material: Stretch satin

Best Jewel Tone

Lulus Satin Maxi Dress

Woman wearing Lulus Constantine Burgundy Satin Maxi Dress

PHOTO: Lulus

View on Lulus

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

Size Range: XS–XL | Colors: 6 | Material: Polyester

Best Designer

Danielle Frankel Harper Crepe Satin Slip Gown

PHOTO: Saks Fifth Avenue

View on Saks Fifth Avenue

Special occasions call for a unique dress—and this crepe satin slip is just that. The asymmetrical neck, luxuriously smooth fabric, and rich peacock color make this head-turning designer gown by Danielle Frankel worth the splurge.

Size Range: 0–12 | Colors: Peacock | Material: Silk

Best for Spring

Maria Lucia Hohan Klair Gown

PHOTO: Revolve

View on Revolve

Pretty pink hues are always a good idea for spring and summer weddings. We love this floral dress for guests drawn to romantic, feminine silhouettes. The dreamy neckline and layered hem add a whimsical touch.

Size Range: 2-8 | Colors: Pink | Material: Silk blend

Best Plus-Size

Eloquii Satin Maxi Dress

PHOTO: Eloquii

View on Amazon View on Eloquii.com View on Macy's

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

Size Range: 14–28 | Colors: 4 | Material: Polyester

Best Modest

Amsale Pryce Gown

View on Anthropologie View on Saks Fifth Avenue

If you want more coverage, this elegant design from Amsale will steal the show. There's no slit, and the cowl neck modestly shows off your shoulder. The column skirt is slightly fitted at the waist and hips for a comfortable and stylish look.

Size Range: 0–24 | Colors: 3 | Material: Polyester

Best Sparkle

Mac Duggal Sparkle A-Line Gown

PHOTO: Mac Duggal

$398 at Nordstrom $398 at Saks Fifth Avenue

Look (and feel) like Cinderella in this dazzling Mac Duggal gown. With a plunging V-neckline, supportive waistband, and classic empire waist silhouette, this shimmering number will surely bring out your confidence. Plus, it is available in three sparkling shades.

Size Range: 0–20 | Colors: 3 | Material: 100% polyester

Best Strapless

Michael Costello x REVOLVE Briggs Gown

PHOTO: Revolve

View on Revolve

Attending a wedding is an investment, so it's best to choose a dress you'll wear repeatedly. This elegant strapless gown would make a timeless addition to any formal wardrobe. From a designer who has dressed Beyoncé, Cardi B, Kim Kardashian, and Lady Gaga, this gown will surely impress.

Size Range: XXS–XL | Colors: 3 | Material: Rayon, nylon, spandex

Best Jumpsuit

Lulus Thinking Out Loud Backless Jumpsuit

Lulus Thinking Out Loud Black Backless Jumpsuit

PHOTO: Lulus

View on Lulus

For those who prefer jumpsuits (they are easier to dance in!), we recommend this sexy number from Lulus. The style looks classy and chic with a plunging neckline and crisscross back. Choose from five different color options to suit your style.

Size Range: XXS–XL | Colors: 5 | Material: Polyester, spandex

Best Velvet

Jenny Yoo Logan Velvet Gown

Woman wearing Jenny Yoo Logan Deep-V Velvet Column Gown on a dark background

Courtesy of Anthropologie.

View on Anthropologie View on Jennyyoo.com

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

Size Range: 0–19, plus sizes available | Colors: 5 | Material: Velvet, polyester

Most Playful

Reformation Oren Silk Dress

PHOTO: Courtesy of Reformation

View on Reformation

We love how flirty and playful this is for a formal dress, thanks to the neck scarf that adds a breezy feel to the look. Made of 100 percent silk, this dress glides beautifully as you move and has a relaxed fit throughout. The straight neckline and scarf also show off your shoulders and décolletage.

Size Range: XS–XL | Colors: 3 | Material: Silk

Best One-Shoulder

Katie May Edgy Dress

PHOTO: Revolve

View on Revolve View on Saks Fifth Avenue

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.

Size Range: XS–XXL | Colors: 3 | Material: Polyester, spandex

Best Off-Shoulder

Meshki Giselle Off Shoulder Cowl Neck Maxi Dress

PHOTO: Courtesy of Meshki

View on Meshki.us

This cowl neck dress looks sophisticated with an off-shoulder neckline and ultra-long, flared sleeves. A side slit completes the dramatic silhouette. Built-in gripping tape on the front and back of the neckline ensures the dress will stay in place all night. Better yet, this gown comes in an inclusive size range.

Size Range: XXS–3XL | Colors: 4 | Material: Viscose

Most Dramatic

Staud Julius Dress

PHOTO: Courtesy of Shopbop

View on Shopbop.com

A vibrant red dress like this one looks sizzling at a tropical destination wedding. The slinky jersey dress was made for twirling on the dance floor. With an open back and breezy high slit, it's sure to keep you cool on a hot summer night, so it's perfect for a garden or beach ceremony.

Size Range: XS–XL | Colors: 1 | Material: Jersey

Best Details

Alfred Sung Bustier Tie Back Gown

PHOTO: Courtesy of Nordstrom

View on Nordstrom View on Verishop.com

This sweet, ballerina-inspired gown from Alfred Sung features a bustier top with a corseted lace-up back that's reminiscent of ballet shoes to cinch your waist. It even has pockets, so you don't have to trade elegance for convenience.

Size Range: 0-18 | Colors: 1 | Material: Polyester

Most Sophisticated

Norma Kamali Halter Turtle Fishtail Gown

PHOTO: Courtesy of Revolve

View on Revolve

Make a dramatic entrance in this stunning turtleneck maxi with a fishtail hem. The slinky jersey fabric drapes effortlessly, and the rich chocolate hue manages to be bold yet neutral. Size down because this gown runs large.

Size Range: XXS–XL | Colors: 1 | Material: Jersey

Best Plus Size

Eloquii Strong Shoulder Sequin Dress With Slit

PHOTO: Courtesy of Eloquii

View on Eloquii.com

You'll make a sweeping entrance in this black-tie-appropriate gown that features a slit and one-shoulder neckline. The high-shine, silver sequin fabric is sure to catch every light in the reception as you dance the night away. The shoulder pad adds a little volume for a structured look that makes it even dressier.

Size Range: 14-32 | Colors: 1 | Material: Polyester, spandex

Best With Feathers

Mac Duggal Feather Cap Sleeve Embellished Sheath Cocktail Dress

PHOTO: Nordstrom

$598 at Nordstrom View on Lyst.com $598 at Saks Fifth Avenue

This sheath-style dress features a form-fitting silhouette, rhinestone details, and show-stopping feather cap sleeves. It would be the perfect choice for a vintage-inspired, black-tie ceremony. Be sure to opt for an updo to really show off the full effect of the glamorous sleeve style.

Size Range: 2-18 | Colors: 2 | Material: Polyester

Best for a Destination Wedding, Runner-Up

Petal & Pup Nadene One-Shoulder Midi Dress

Petal and Pup Nadene One-Shoulder Midi Dress

PHOTO: Nordstrom

$79 at Nordstrom

From the bright ocean hue to the one-shoulder midi style, this dress would be perfect for a seaside ceremony. It's sleeveless and has a back vent to keep you cool in hot, humid climates. Just note it does run a bit small, so size up if you're between sizes.

Size Range: 0-16 | Colors: 1 | Material: Polyester, elastane

What to Look for in Black-Tie Wedding Guest Dresses

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 wedding guest dresses, for example, look for gowns crafted from warm and textured fabrics like lace and velvet.
Colors: Soft pastels, as well as pretty floral prints, are perfect for summer and spring weddings, while jewel tones like emerald, navy, and burgundy are always a fitting choice for winter or fall nuptials. "In general for black tie, I like to stick to solid fabrics versus prints as some can read too casual for the formality of the event. If you opt for a print, stick to something classic like a floral," says Greer. If you're looking for a foolproof black-tie wedding guest dress, you can never go wrong with a timeless black gown.
Details: Dramatic skirts, classic necklines, and shimmering embellishments instantly make a silhouette feel black-tie-worthy.

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 a popular choice for black-tie weddings, as are gowns with allover embellishments. Men and people who choose not to wear dresses should wear a tuxedo (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 unsure 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?

Only if you want to! You can find black-tie wedding guest dresses that are under $100. However, a black-tie event is an occasion that's often worth splurging for. More important than the price tag, though, is to make sure your dress is the correct length and color, is made from materials that look high quality, and suits the season and venue.

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. Theresa Holland contributed additional research.