Buzz
Unless stated otherwise, all sizes in this guide are given in women's measurements.
1. An elegant off-the-shoulder black formal gown, perfect for making a dramatic entrance at your next cocktail event. The flexible polyester fabric ensures you move with grace, as though you’re royalty descending the staircase. 👑
2. A black velvet open-back formal gown perfect for a holiday gathering with family or a professional work event. Either way, the long sleeves and soft fabric will keep you cozy during chilly weather.
This dress is also machine washable!
Customer review: "I don’t say this often, but I absolutely adore how this dress makes me look and feel. It’s incredibly soft, well-crafted, and comfy. The fit is perfect, and I feel like a model wearing it. Highly recommend!" —Heather C
Get it from Target for $40 (available in sizes XXS–4X).
Looking for more cold-weather styles? Explore our collection of winter formal dresses for chic warmth.
3. A black mini wrap dress, simple yet stylish enough to transition effortlessly from work to your friend's dinner party — no need to change outfits.
The adjustable tie lets you fasten it to your preferred fit. Be sure to line-dry it to preserve its shape.
Customer review: "Such a cute dress! The pattern and feel are just right. If you have a larger chest, I recommend sizing up to ensure a comfortable wrap." —anonymous
Get it from Old Navy for $49.99 (available in sizes XS–4X, with tall and petite options).
Looking for more options? Add a white formal dress to your collection!
4. An elegant black formal dress from Express with a sleek, polished silhouette that practically begs to be paired with your favorite statement earrings and delicate necklaces.
Customer review: "Beautiful color and fabric — I ended up buying all three shades. The stretch quality is superb, and the length is just right, allowing easy movement. A definite wardrobe essential! I’ll wear it for years, and it transitions effortlessly between seasons!" —NYqt
Get it from Express for $52.80 (originally $88; available in sizes XS–XL).
5. A black crewneck formal dress made from scuba knit material, offering both warmth and elegance for all of your networking events. You might even find yourself saying, "I never want to take you off."
Customer review: "This material is so soft and stretchy, I got tons of compliments! It's a little shorter than expected, so I had to wear leggings. If you have curves, be prepared!" —LeoTXmom3
Available at Torrid for $37.75 (originally $75.50; available in sizes M–6X).
6. A spaghetti strap black formal dress that will give you that sleek, high-fashion look — without the hefty price tag that makes your wallet groan.
7. A lace black mermaid formal dress with off-the-shoulder sleeves, making it a breeze to remove after a long night at that fundraiser.
8. A silk black formal dress that’s washable, so you can sip your wine worry-free, without the hassle of dry-cleaning fees or the burden of hand washing it yourself.
The fabric has minimal stretch, so for a more fitted look, stick to your regular size.
I own this in navy blue and find any excuse to wear it out, it’s that fun! I usually avoid 100% silk items out of fear of ruining them, but with this one, I can relax. Even if I spill my coffee, it’s machine washable. The lightweight material is perfect for hot summer days, keeping me cool while adding a touch of elegance to my outfit, whether I pair it with a denim jacket or my favorite heels.
Promising review: "This dress is absolutely stunning—simple yet elegant. The quality is exceptional; it's clear the silk is top-notch, and it feels luxurious. I’m definitely getting more colors, as well as some silk skirts." —Emily K.
Get it from Quince for $79.90 (available in sizes XS–XL and six colors).
9. A tulip-wrap black formal dress, comfy enough for that long drive to a wedding, so you can skip the outfit change altogether.
10. A flutter-sleeve black formal dress that exudes a sweet and delicate aura, leaving your rehearsal dinner guests constantly complimenting you all night.
Promising review: "I adore this dress! It's wonderfully textured, and the cut is perfect, making me feel amazing. I plan on wearing it to my husband's annual meeting. Simple, yet stunning 🤩." —AlisaXU
Get it from Madewell for $135 (available in sizes 00–14).
11. A ruched black formal mini dress that’s perfect for transitioning from the bridal shower to the surprise bachelorette party you’ve been planning for months.
12. A patent leather mini black formal dress so stylish, you'll find yourself reaching for it beyond just work events. It’s so chic that even Paris Hilton would give it a "That's hot" approval.
For care, spot clean or hand wash with similar colors. Avoid dry cleaning or wringing it out. Lay it flat to dry.
Promising review: "SEXY!!! I already own this in the teal leather, so I knew it would be fabulous — just be sure to size up, it runs a bit small." —Anonymous
Get it from Eloquii for $129.95 (available in sizes 14–28).
13. A black sequin formal dress featuring a high leg slit, offering plenty of legroom — ideal for striking a playful pose with friends before heading off to prom.
14. A mesh puff sleeve black formal dress that lets the sleeves shine on their own, or you can dress it up with a classic pearl necklace for an added touch of elegance.
15. An asymmetrical ruched black formal dress for those looking for a striking little black dress that’s both on-trend and made from a comfortable, itch-free polyester material to keep you at ease all night long.
For optimal care, wash this item in cold water and avoid ironing it.
Promising review: "I absolutely adore this dress! It's gorgeous! The ruched detailing ensures I feel comfortable from start to finish (even after a big celebratory evening), and the length is just perfect. Highly recommend!" —JK98
Get it from Abercrombie & Fitch for $100 (available in sizes XXS–XL and three different lengths).
16. A boat neck black formal dress exuding vintage charm, complete with a short A-line skirt that lets you dance freely without feeling constricted.
17. A faux leather mini black formal dress for those who want to maintain an edgy vibe while still looking refined enough for an opera outing.
Promising review: "This dress is perfection! It's buttery soft and every detail is exquisite. I love the leather and the laser cut design. I’m 5’4" and usually wear a petite size, but I got the regular, and it was over my knee. It’s definitely on the more fitted side." —jojo917
Get it from Anthropologie for $230 (available in sizes 00–26).
18. A silk black formal dress with smocked shoulders that not only feels smooth to the touch but is made from a breathable, skin-friendly material, letting you dance the night away without worrying about sweat stains. Now you can show off your dance skills without a care in the world. 🕺
The brand advises dry cleaning, but the material is also hand-washable or machine washable if placed in a mesh bag and washed in lukewarm water on the gentlest cycle. Be sure to line dry away from direct sunlight.
Promising review: "I feel like a lovely woodland fairy! It's slightly shorter than my other LilySilk dresses, giving it a fun, summery vibe, and it shows off my cleavage — but not too much, it’s still office-friendly. Highly recommend if you want to flaunt your curves and spark the imagination :)" —Meghann S.
Get it from Lilysilk for $129 (available in sizes 2–12).
19. A corset lace black formal dress that’s truly worth the investment and incredibly easy to slip into. Just zip it up for a sultry look you can wear to events throughout the year.
This item should be hand washed and laid flat to dry.
Promising review: "This dress will certainly make you the center of attention! I’m considering having it hemmed because I’m 5'4" and want to style it with combat boots and a studded jean jacket. Alternatively, I plan to pair it with studded platform heels for a more formal look. If I wear only the heels, I wouldn’t need to hem it, but I want to get plenty of wear out of it and not just save it for special occasions. It's an amazing dress and I can’t wait to be the highlight of the event when I wear it out!" —FloridaGirl7777
Get it from Nordstrom for $129 (available in sizes 1–11).
20. A split lace black formal dress with a sheer top that will definitely require a slip dress or a bralette underneath. The outcome? An irresistibly eerie and beautiful vibe that even Morticia Addams would admire.
21. An elegant V-neck sleeveless black formal dress that's far from ordinary with its luxurious polyester fabric and flattering mermaid skirt. Just add some long, silky gloves and a delicate tiara, and you’ll channel the timeless grace of Breakfast At Tiffany's.
22. A square-neck black formal dress that's designed with adjustable features, allowing you to easily switch between puffed sleeves or an off-the-shoulder style. In short, two gorgeous looks for the price of one!
23. A ruffle-neck black formal dress for those who admire 19th-century style with a contemporary flair. No need to fret—its cotton fabric and inner slip will keep you comfortable during those long award ceremony speeches.
Promising review: "This dress is incredible! The fabric feels luxurious, and the fit is perfect. I originally bought both colors for an upcoming gala, but ended up keeping both because they’re just that good. I wholeheartedly recommend this dress! You won’t regret it." —Fable
Get it from J. Crew for $79.50 (was $178; available in sizes XXS–3X).
24. A lantern-sleeve black formal dress crafted with a flexible fabric to offer both comfort and freedom, so you can finally show off those dance moves you’ve been perfecting in your living room.
25. A floral black embroidered formal dress that’s sure to be the center of attention — especially with its playful mesh-tiered panels at the bottom that truly bring the look to life.
To care for it, hand wash in cold water and hang to dry.
Promising review: "This dress was a bold pick for me, but I was amazed by how gorgeous it is! The fit creates a flattering hourglass silhouette. Even though it’s a bit form-fitting, I didn’t feel uncomfortable. The sheer layers add a fun touch, and I was showered with compliments all evening! This dress truly makes a statement. It's by far my favorite Lulus purchase." —Ella B.
"I wore it to a fall wedding and received so many compliments. Being short, it fit perfectly with high heels. The adjustable straps were ideal for my body type. If you have a larger bust, I suggest sizing up." —Shelby S.
Get it from Lulus for $99 (available in sizes XS–XL).
26. A sleeveless V-neck black formal dress that’ll make you question why you ever needed another fancy outfit — simply add a belt and some accessories, and voilà, you’ve got an entirely fresh look!
27. A black sweater formal dress that shows style and comfort can absolutely coexist, allowing you to attend a winter gala without the stress of coordinating a cardigan.
For those with larger busts, reviewers suggest going up a size.
Promising review: "Absolutely stunning dress! It fits perfectly and has just the right touch of sexiness!" —anonymous
Available at Banana Republic for $140 (sizes XXS–XL).
This is the vibe you can expect from your classic LBD...
The reviews in this post have been condensed for brevity and clarity.
