Buzz
Unless stated otherwise, all sizes listed in this post are in women's sizes.
1. A tasseled evening dress dripping with 1920s glamour, perfect for making an unforgettable entrance at a themed event or an elegant gala.
2. An elegant velvet open-back dress, perfect for a cozy holiday dinner or a work gathering — either way, you'll appreciate the warmth of its long sleeves and luxurious fabric during chilly months.
The dress is machine-washable!
Promising review: "I rarely say this, but I absolutely love how this dress makes me look and feel. It's incredibly soft, well-crafted, and comfortable. The fit is perfect, and I feel like a model when I wear it. Highly recommend!" —Heather C
Get it from Target for $40 (available in sizes XXS–4X and two colors).
Looking for an LBD? We have some stunning black formal dresses.
3. A stunning rose gold mermaid gown with a backless design and sequins covering the entire dress. Even Princess Ariel would be jealous of this masterpiece.
4. An asymmetrical ruched black dress that's perfect for those looking for a show-stopping LBD that's both trendy and made from a comfortable, itch-free polyester fabric to keep you at ease all night.
For optimal care, wash this garment in cold water using a machine and avoid ironing.
Customer review: "I absolutely love this dress! It's gorgeous! The ruched design makes me feel comfortable from start to finish (even after a long night of celebration), and it has the perfect mid-length fit. Highly recommend!" —JK98
Available at Abercrombie & Fitch for $100 (sizes XXS–XL and three length options).
Pro tip: Don't forget to add a white formal dress to your wardrobe.
5. This high-low formal dress from Urban Outfitters, adorned with ruffled trim and a beautiful floral design, will make your entire look come alive with beauty.
The straps are adjustable for a perfect fit! Just remember, this dress is hand-wash only.
Customer review: "This dress is incredibly sweet but also has a sexy side. When I walk, it does that 'the queen has arrived' thing as the wind catches it :D." —Tinkz
Purchase it from Urban Outfitters for $69 (available in sizes S–L).
Save your wallet from a lecture with these stylish dresses under $50.
6. This balloon sleeve formal dress is designed with a heavier fabric, ensuring it won't float away when the wind picks up, keeping it securely in place.
Customer review: "I absolutely love this dress! As a pumping mom, I appreciate the wrap style with a front hook closure for modesty, yet I can easily open it for double pumping. It fits perfectly, is true to size, and feels gorgeous while looking amazing!" —Lyndsay
Available at Target for $35 (sizes X–4X and three color options).
Don't sacrifice warmth for style—check out these winter formal dresses.
7. This beaded and sequin formal dress with a feather trim makes a bold statement, ensuring any fashion lover will want to flaunt this dazzling piece.
Customer review: "The beading on this dress perfectly highlights my curves, and the feathery sleeves are an adorable touch." —Anonymous
Available at Asos for $185 (sizes 0–14).
8. This high slit formal dress allows you to show a little skin and stay cool — perfect for those who prefer staying on the dance floor until the very last song finishes.
9. This chiffon formal dress is perfect for fulfilling your dream of becoming one with nature — but in the most adorable and stunning way possible.
Customer review: "I wish I had found this dress sooner. It's absolutely stunning, incredibly comfortable, and fits perfectly. I wore it to a work event and received so many compliments — even from colleagues I don't interact with much. I’m considering buying a second one just in case something happens to this one." —LisaG13
Get it from Torrid for $39.99 (originally $99.50; available in sizes 10–30).
10. This Lulus formal dress gives off heavenly vibes with its soft velvet flutter sleeves and an A-line skirt that will make you feel like you're floating down the stairs at your work event.
Customer review: "This dress is truly a dream. The fabric is incredibly soft, the most comfortable I've ever touched. The color is stunning, and the fit is perfect; it was just the right weight for a November wedding in New England. If you're reading reviews to pick a dress, stop right now... this is the one. I absolutely loved it and plan to wear it countless times in the future." —Alexandra H.
Available at Lulus for $79 (comes in sizes XS–3X and two colors).
11. This formal pencil dress features pearl-encrusted balloon sleeves and a stretchy, soft fabric that lets you dance the night away effortlessly.
12. This zebra print formal dress is perfect for those who want to turn heads — this bold design ensures you stand out and never fade into the background.
Available from Boohoo for $18 (original price $45; offered in sizes 4–12).
Be sure to check out these fall wedding guest dresses as well.
13. This ruffle smocked formal dress offers a contemporary twist on Bridgerton style, perfect for attending high tea while showcasing your gorgeous ankles.
14. This Rent The Runway formal dress is a must-have for fall and winter weddings. The best part? Not only is it breathtaking, but you can return it after your event, saving space in your closet.
Members can rent up to four pieces of clothing at once for up to eight days! Non-members can still rent pieces, but at a higher rate — and if you find a piece you love, you can purchase it at full price.
Promising review: "This dress was absolutely fabulous! Beautiful and comfortable. I wore it to a destination wedding in October." —Kim
Get it from Rent The Runway for $70 as a non-member (available in sizes XS–XL) or try it (along with three other items) for $69/month as a member.
15. This mesh crisscross formal dress is a great option for bridesmaids on a budget, offering both style and affordability. Even better? The simple design features pockets, so you can keep your phone and keys handy without the need for a bulky purse.
This design requires dry cleaning only.
Promising review: "I absolutely love this dress! The fit is perfect, the sage color is gorgeous, and the fabric is soft and comfortable. I didn’t realize it had pockets, which was a pleasant surprise! It is quite long though. At 5'7", even on my tiptoes it still drags on the floor, so I'll likely need to get it shortened. If you're shorter than 5'7", be prepared for alterations!" —Cristin R.
Purchase it from Birdy Grey for $99 (available in sizes XS–3X and 11 colors).
16. This formal silk dress boasts a design so versatile that you can easily transition from a casual brunch with friends to a chic bridal shower without feeling overdressed.
Anaphe is a boutique based in Hong Kong that specializes in offering luxurious clothing at affordable prices, all made from sustainable materials.
Promising review: "So chic, and the color transitions perfectly into autumn and even winter!" —Athennie
Get it from Anaphe for $156 (available in sizes XS–L).
17. This off-the-shoulder formal dress is versatile enough to wear throughout the year, with its simple yet sophisticated design. The cozy polyester fabric ensures comfort, so you won’t be eager to take it off as soon as you get home.
18. This floral formal dress is adorned with a captivating ruffle trim and sleeves that might just make the bride reconsider her bouquet and walk down the aisle with you instead.
19. This gold formal dress features an eye-catching backless design and a shimmering fabric that will leave everyone at the event in awe, it's that stunning.
Beginning Boutique is a woman-owned, Australian-based boutique offering stylish outfits for every occasion. The brand suggests you size up for a perfect fit.
Promising review: "This dress is absolutely stunning! The satin fabric's slight stretch made it incredibly comfortable. I wore it for hours at a university ball and adored it. I would highly recommend this dress to anyone seeking a formal dress at a great price." —Tayah H.
Purchase it from Beginning Boutique for $124.99 (available in sizes XXS–XXL and five other color options).
20. This empire waist formal dress comes with long arm straps that enhance its ethereal, fairy-tale charm. Once you slip it on, you'll feel like you've just walked out of a storybook.
Perrin and Co. is a boutique on Etsy that specializes in handcrafting custom dresses tailored perfectly to your measurements.
Promising review: "I bought this dress in sage green, and it’s the most stunning dress I’ve ever worn! I feel like a fairy princess. I opted for the custom fit, and I couldn’t be happier with my choice. Honestly, it’s the most gorgeous dress I’ve owned, and the way it makes me feel is unparalleled! Do yourself a favor and order." —Elizabeth
Purchase it from Perrin and Co. on Etsy for $160+ (available in sizes XS–4XL or custom sizing, with 30 colors to choose from).
21. This African print formal dress is expertly handmade from breathable cotton, designed to keep you cool and stylish. No need to worry about sweat stains with this one!
MAD Kollection is a small, Black-owned business based in Manchester, UK, offering a variety of dresses, tops, jackets, headwraps, and more.
Promising review: "I will never, ever take it off! It is truly worth every penny. I feel like a princess. The comfort and high-quality fabric are unmatched. Thank you so much!" —Ina R.
Get it from MAD Kollection for $98.54 (originally $109.49; available in sizes 2–18).
22. This floral lace formal dress features a mermaid silhouette, complemented by a sultry side slit and stretchy fabric, ensuring you're gliding effortlessly, not waddling, to the dinner table.
23. This tie-back formal dress pairs perfectly with your new clear heels for a chic, head-turning look. Whether you're attending prom or accompanying someone to a wedding, you're sure to steal the spotlight.
To keep this 100% polyester dress in top shape, hand-wash it for the best results.
Promising review: "I bought it for my school prom and it is absolutely stunning—so elegant and sexy! 13/10 would recommend. The adjustable shoulder straps were a nice bonus." —Anonymous
Get it from Asos for $157 (available in sizes 0–14).
24. This faux-wrap maxi formal dress embodies fall with its gorgeous lace sleeves and flowing skirt. Plus, reviewers rave about its suitability for nursing mothers!
25. A chic formal wrap dress that's a must-have for your wardrobe! Just imagine yourself enveloped in its soft, flowing fabric – it’s like slipping into luxury and feeling like you're inheriting a fortune. The smooth, silky material adds an extra touch of elegance and grace to your day.
Victoria Angel is a charming boutique and Etsy shop specializing in evening and formal wear. This handcrafted dress is made from a blend of silks, featuring cuffed sleeves and a crystal button closure.
Promising review: "Oh! I absolutely LOVED this dress! The feel, the fit, the look – everything about it! I am this dress, and it’s everything I hoped for! Completely 💯 perfect. Thank you, I adore it!" —DrSarah Langley
Get it from Victoria Angel on Etsy for $115.20 (originally $128, available in sizes S–XL).
26. A simple yet elegant V-neck sleeveless formal dress that’s far from ordinary, crafted with a soft polyester fabric and a mermaid-style skirt. Just add some long silky gloves and a petite tiara, and you’ll be channeling the classic charm of Breakfast At Tiffany's.
27. This mini sequin formal dress is completely covered in dazzling sequins that shout, "Let's hit the dance floor!" so you can truly light up the room.
The dress features a polyester lining and should be hand washed in cold water and air dried.
Promising review: "I absolutely adore this dress. I purchased it for prom and later wore it for my sweet 16. It fits perfectly and looks amazing, plus the quality is excellent. I was thrilled with the green color and got so many compliments." —Gabby R.
Get it from Windsor for $49.90 (available in sizes S–L and three colors).
28. This sequin halter formal dress is made to twirl with its sparkling exterior, and the sleeveless design ensures you won’t have to keep adjusting your straps throughout the evening.
29. This satin ombre formal dress perfectly balances sophistication and fun, with a high neckline, sweet bow detail, and a breathable backless design that screams ‘party in the back.’ And yes, it even has POCKETS!
30. This lace crewneck formal dress is your go-to choice for every elegant occasion. Whether you're headed to a cocktail party, wedding, or baby shower, its versatility ensures you'll make a stunning impression every time.
31. This Free People formal dress is made from a silky fabric and features a daring DEEP V-neck, giving you the chance to unleash your inner goddess.
Promising review: "I bought the fuchsia version for my 50th Bahamian vacation this spring, and it feels incredible on the skin, has a perfect weight, and the fabric drapes beautifully. The adjustable ties are great for accommodating a larger bust, and I can't wait to wear it again!" —midlifevolution
Get it from Free People for $200 (available in sizes XS–XL and six colors).
32. This tropical midi formal dress is just waiting for a vacation, particularly if you're aiming to impress on a romantic date night with your special someone.
Nine Lives Bazaar is a woman-owned boutique that creates bold, nostalgic-inspired pieces guaranteed to make an unforgettable impression. To ensure this dress stays in top condition, hand-wash it with care.
Promising review: "This dress is the most stunning and beautiful piece I've ever worn. If I could wear it every single day, I definitely would." —K. Challis
Purchase it from Nine Lives Bazaar for $135 (available in sizes 6–16).
33. This Anthropologie formal dress is a luxurious investment with its flounced tiered skirt and playful sweetheart neckline, giving you the elegance of a work of art straight out of the Met.
The dress is lined with polyester and is machine washable for easy care.
Promising review: "This dress is stunning, fits perfectly, and is super comfortable. Just a heads-up, I ordered black, but the midnight color actually leans more towards navy." —Scc074
Available at Anthropologie for $220 (offered in sizes 0–26 and five colors).
Everyone's reaction when they spot you...
The reviews for this post have been edited for brevity and clarity.
