10 Guest Dresses We Love for a Black Tie Wedding

Getting invited to a black tie wedding can be exciting — you get to dress up and look and feel all glamorous! However, they can also be stressful because not everyone has formal wear in their closets. A black-tie dress code means floor-length gowns in the fashion dictionary. Think maxi dresses or ankle-skimming gowns. Sometimes you can even get away with a midi dress if it’s elegant enough. Luckily, there are so many options out there at multiple price points. We have done all the hard work for you and have rounded up 10 guest dresses we love for a black-tie wedding. But first, let’s go over the dress code!

When looking for a black-tie guest dress, take into consideration the season of the wedding. Then look at fancier fabrics such as silk, organza, chiffon, velvet, etc. Satin and silk work for both summer and winter weddings. Velvet, jersey and taffeta are fabrics that look expensive but are actually affordable.

Pay attention to the silhouette, neckline and bodice. You want to buy a classic dress that can be worn on more than one black-tie/formal occasion.

Black-Tie Dress Code

A black-tie dress code represents a level of formality. Typically men are in tuxedos — black jacket, black pants, a formal white shirt and a black bowtie. Sometimes a matching black vest is also included. For women, it means a floor-length gown. With this dress code, it means an elegant, upscale event where the guests are expected to adhere to the dress code.

Black-Tie Optional Dress Code

A black-tie optional dress code usually means a bit more flexibility with attire. Formal wear is still encouraged but it also allows more options. Men can still wear a tuxedo or a dark suit and tie. Women can still wear a floor-length gown, a chic jumpsuit or a cocktail dress, just as long as the options are still elegant.

10 Guest Dresses We Love for a Black Tie Wedding

Tripoli Dress by Reformation

A gorgeous cherry red a-line dress with a scoop neckline, the Tripoli dress from Reformation has a fitted bodice and a column skirt with flirty ruffle details.

Price: $348

Sparkly Darling Navy Blue Sequin Maxi Dress from AZAZIE

You will sparkle and shine in this spectacular navy sequin maxi dress from AZAZIE. The off-the-shoulder sleeves add a nice touch.

Price: $82

Caroline Dress by Nana Jacqueline

A stunning backless dress that features asymmetrical laces on the shoulder straps, Nana Jacqueline’s Caroline Dress is black-tie ready.

Price:$515

Queen Gown by Amanda Uprichard

You can never go wrong with a classic black dress! This body-hugging dress from Amanda Uprichard will hug your curves in all the right places while calling attention to the halter neckline and sexy side slit.

Price: $260

Ray Dress by Sabina Musayev

Metallic dresses are fun for a black-tie wedding. This delicate pleated midi dress by Sabina Musayev has black butterfly ties on the shoulders and a removable matching gold belt.

Price: $490

Mable Floral Tiered Ruffle Maxi Dress from ASTR The Label

Who says you can’t wear florals to a black tie wedding? The florals on this dress are darling, especially with the ruffle sleeves and trim. The back cut-out is a fun way to add some edge to your look.

Price: $174

A classy satin gown with cold shoulder sleeves and a v-neckline with a structured bodice and a-line silhouette will have you feeling elegant. Plus there are hidden pockets!

Price: $109.90

Jenny Yoo Rachel Square-Neck Long-Sleeve Side-Slit Stretch Velvet Gown

Velvet is perfect for winter weddings. The Rachel dress is chic and modern with a square neckline and a form-fitting pegged skirt with a sultry side slit. The long sleeves are nice for the colder months.

Price: $298

Photo courtesy of Lulus

Lulus Enchant My Love Emerald Green V-Neck Long Sleeve Maxi Dress

A romantic gauzy chiffon dress with a flattering v-neck in the front and back, long sleeves, a gathered empire waist and an a-line skirt will have you feeling gorgeous.

Price: $89

Photo courtesy of Revolve

Norma Kamali Deep Drape Neck Gown

You can’t go wrong with a gorgeous sleeveless satin dress from Norma Kamali with a matching deep cowl neck and back and a fishtail hem. Purple is the color of royalty so you’ll feel like a queen in this dress.

Price: $325