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. 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 options that are below $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 18 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, 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.

When browsing options, you'll want first 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 actually to cost thousands," shares Ashlyn Greer, a professional stylist, co-founder, and owner 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.

Whatever your style preferences, there's a black-tie ensemble out there for you. To help narrow your search, we've researched the best black-tie wedding dresses for every style, size, body type, budget, and season.

Read on for the best black-tie wedding guest dresses.

Our Top Picks

Best Little Black Dress:

Amanda Uprichard Queen Gown at Revolve ($260)

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Most Elegant:

Sachin & Babi Makayla One-Shoulder Gown at Anthropologie ($995)

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Best Gold:

Sabina Musayev Metallic Dress at Revolve ($490)

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Best Bow:

Hutch Bow Tie Dress at Anthropologie ($218)

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For a Destination Wedding:

Sachin & Babi Stretch Satin Strapless Side-Slit Maxi Dress at Anthropologie ($248)

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Best for Spring:

Maria Lucia Hohan Klair Gown at Revolve ($1,845)

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Best Sleeves:

Mac Duggal Illusion Long Sleeve A-Line Gown at Nordstrom ($398)

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Best Designer:

Danielle Frankel Harper Crepe Satin Slip Gown at Saks Fifth Avenue ($4,990)

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Best Strapless:

Michael Costello x REVOLVE Briggs Gown at Revolve ($298)

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Best Jewel Tone:

Lulus Satin Maxi Dress at Lulus ($69)

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Best Little Black Dress

Amanda Uprichard Queen Gown

Revolve

View On Revolve $260

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. Wear it with statement earrings to highlight the shoulder-baring silhouette.

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

Most Elegant

Sachin & Babi Makayla One-Shoulder Gown

Anthropologie

View On Anthropologie $995

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 Gold

Sabina Musayev Metallic Dress

Revolve

View On Revolve $490 View On Sabinamusayev.com

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 Bow

Hutch Bow Tie Dress

Anthropologie

View On Anthropologie $218 View On Renttherunway.com

Equal parts eye-catching and sophisticated, this two-tone dress is a show-stopping option for a black-tie wedding. Combining classic neutral and bold color options makes it 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

For a Destination Wedding

Sachin & Babi Stretch Satin Strapless Side-Slit Maxi Dress

View On Anthropologie $248

We can't think of a better dress for a black-tie wedding in a tropical locale than this vibrant Sachin & Babi 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.

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

Best for Spring

Maria Lucia Hohan Klair Gown

Revolve

View On Revolve $1,845

Pretty pink hues are always a good idea for spring and summer weddings. We love this floral pink 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 Sleeves

Mac Duggal Illusion Long Sleeve A-Line Gown

Nordstrom

View On Nordstrom $398 View On Saks Fifth Avenue $398

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 ensemble.

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

Best Designer

Danielle Frankel Harper Crepe Satin Slip Gown

Saks Fifth Avenue

View On Saks Fifth Avenue $4,990

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: Peakcock | Material: Silk

Best Strapless

Michael Costello x REVOLVE Briggs Gown

Revolve

View On Revolve $298

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 Beyonce, Cardi B, Kim Kardashian, and Lady Gaga, this gown will surely impress.

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

Best Jewel Tone

Lulus Satin Maxi Dress

Lulus

View On Lulus $69

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 weddings. At an affordable price, it makes for a budget-friendly option you can wear again for any other formal occasions to come.

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

Best Sparkle

Mac Duggal Sparkle A-Line Gown

Nordstrom

View On Nordstrom $398 View On Saks Fifth Avenue $398

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 comes available in three sparkling shades.

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

Best Plus-Size

Eloquii Satin Maxi Dress

Eloquii

View On Eloquii.com $75

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 One-Shoulder

Katie May Edgy Dress

Revolve

View On Revolve $295 View On Saks Fifth Avenue $179

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 Modest

Amsale Pryce Gown

View On Anthropologie $250 View On Saks Fifth Avenue $372

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 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 $290 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 available | Colors: 5 | Material: Velvet, polyester

Best Silk

Reformation Birch Silk Dress

Courtesy of Anthropologie.

View On Reformation $398 View On Anthropologie $378

Silk is always a stylish and practical option 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.

Size Range: 0–12 | Colors: 3 | Material: Silk

Best Jumpsuit

Lulus Thinking Out Loud Backless Jumpsuit

Lulus

View On Lulus $55

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 criss-cross back. Choose from five different color options to suit your style.

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

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.
Colors: Soft pastels, as well as pretty floral prints, are perfect for spring and summer 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," shares Greer. If you're looking for a foolproof black-tie outfit, you can never go wrong with a timeless black gown.
Details: Details like 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 also 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 options that are below $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. Additional research was done by Theresa Holland.

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