Buzz
All sizes listed in this article are in women’s unless stated otherwise.
1. A high-neck plaid winter formal dress with long sleeves and a midi length, ideal for those who want to stay covered when the temperature drops without sacrificing style.
2. A velvet open-back formal dress perfect for a holiday dinner with family or even a work gathering — either way, you'll appreciate the long sleeves and cozy fabric during those chilly months.
The dress is also machine washable!
Review highlight: "I rarely say this, but I absolutely LOVE how this dress makes me look and feel. It's incredibly soft, well-constructed, and so comfortable. It fits perfectly, and I feel like a model wearing it. Highly recommend!" —Heather C
Get it from Target for $40 (available in sizes XXS–4X and two colors).
Psst — you can explore this style along with other formal dresses.
3. A jersey winter formal dress with an adjustable waist tie, allowing you to tailor the fit to your preference, and a wrinkle-resistant fabric, making it easy to throw into your suitcase before heading to your family's holiday gathering.
Universal Standard is a woman-owned brand that designs inclusive clothing in sizes 00 to 40. Each piece is fit on models of every size during the design process, ensuring a more accurate and comfortable fit than garments created using a standard formula. PS: Don’t miss their recycling program to save big on your next order!
Review highlight: "I adore the fit, color, and overall look of this dress. I wore it to a bridal luncheon for my daughter and received so many compliments. I plan to wear it to work with a blazer, and it would look great with a jean jacket too!" —Anna F.
Get it from Universal Standard for $138 (available in sizes 00–40 and three colors).
Why not add a white formal dress to your collection as well?
4. A stretchy winter formal dress that’s so flowy, you won’t have to worry about waddling, and with soft long sleeves, you won’t need to rely on a shawl to stay warm all evening.
5. A mini wrap black formal dress that’s simple but elegant enough to transition seamlessly from work to a dinner party with friends — no need for a wardrobe change.
The tie is adjustable and can be fastened to your preferred fit. Be sure to line-dry this to preserve its shape.
Review highlight: "Such a cute dress! The pattern and feel are perfect. If you have a larger chest, I’d recommend ordering a size up to ensure there’s enough material to wrap comfortably." —anonymous
Get it from Old Navy for $49.99 (available in sizes XS–4X and tall and petite lengths).
6. A cocktail winter formal dress with ruching that can be customized with the adjustable side tie. Plus, the breathable fabric lets you dance the night away — especially when the "Cha-Cha Slide" comes on.
7. A tie-front winter formal dress full of charm and playfulness with its balloon sleeves and adjustable arm ties. The floral print and pockets (!!!) really make the look pop.
Review highlight: "I bought this dress just a week ago, and it fits like an absolute dream! This was the perfect dress to kick off the fall season. The color, pattern, fit, make, quality — everything is just perfect. Oh, AND IT HAS POCKETS!!!! I mean, seriously, it doesn’t get much better than that, right? Overall, I wish I could own this style in every color and pattern. Love it, love it, love it!" —VMorrr
Get it from Madewell for $138 (available in sizes XXS–XXL).
8. An embellished A-line winter formal dress that’s practically made for a NYE celebration. Just look at it! The ruffles, flowing sleeves, and embellishments are basically screaming ‘party-ready.’
Be sure to hand wash this material only.
Review highlight: "Such a stunning dress! The fabric is lightweight yet high-quality, and the fit is incredible. I really needed a long-sleeve formal dress, and this is absolutely perfect. Highly recommend! :)" —Anonymous
Get it from Asos for $125 (available in sizes 0–12).
9. A V-neck maxi winter formal dress featuring long lace sleeves and a side tie, proving that sometimes, the simplest designs leave the most lasting impression.
10. A zebra-print formal dress because you’re ready to make a bold impression, and this number will guarantee you stand out, not fade into the crowd.
Purchase it from Boohoo for $18 (was $45; available in sizes 4–12).
Be sure to check out these fall wedding guest dresses too.
11. A flared off-the-shoulder winter formal dress, crafted from a stretchy, comfortable fabric that will make you feel like you're ready for a grand theater performance, especially when you attend The Nutcracker with your special someone.
12. An asymmetrical winter formal dress, blending the playful charm of a short cocktail dress with the sophistication of a maxi dress, featuring a side train to give you the best of both worlds.
Be sure to hand wash this dress and let it drip dry away from direct sunlight.
Promising review: "I adored this dress for homecoming! It was super comfortable and unique — no one else had anything like it. Just make sure to wear heels so it doesn’t drag too much, but it’s absolutely gorgeous!" —Karyss R.
Get it from Windsor for $59.90 (available in sizes XS–XL and three colors).
13. A belted sweater winter formal dress with a midi-length, the perfect choice for those who want some warmth and coverage without going for a floor-length option. Ideal for keeping cozy on a snowy night.
14. A patent leather mini black formal dress that's stylish enough to be worn beyond just work events. It's so chic, it would definitely earn a "That's hot" from Paris Hilton herself.
For care, spot clean or hand wash with like colors. Avoid dry cleaning, twisting, or wringing it out. Lay it flat to dry.
Promising review: "SEXY!!! I already own this in teal leather, so I knew it would be fabulous — though I recommend sizing up, it runs a bit small." —Anonymous
Get it from Eloquii for $129.95 (available in sizes 14–28).
15. A one-shoulder winter formal dress crafted from fuzzy velvet that feels so snug, you’ll want to stay wrapped up in it long after the winter gala is over.
Promising review: "I wore this dress as part of a bridal party and it was absolutely stunning! It's definitely something I can wear again, and I have zero regrets about this purchase." —Michele C.
Get it from Baltic Born for $76 (available in sizes XS–XL and 14 colors).
16. A satin ruffle winter formal dress that feels like it’s straight out of a rom-com, because it’s just that enchanting. Once you put it on and cinch it with the adjustable waist tie, you’ll be radiating main character energy.
Victoria Angel is a boutique on Etsy that offers beautifully handcrafted formal attire.
Promising review: "I was skeptical at first, but let me tell you, this dress is absolutely stunning. It looks just like the picture and fits perfectly! 100% worth the purchase. The fabric feels smooth, it’s so lovely — just a really gorgeous dress! ❤️" —Jodie
Get it from Victoria Angel on Etsy for $98+ (available in sizes S–XXXL).
17. An adorable cable sweater winter formal dress that lets you *finally* live your dream of wearing a cozy, fluffy sweater for your annual family photos.
18. A wrap-front sweater dress from Abercrombie that will literally give you chills — but not from the cold. Instead, you’ll be enchanted by the coziness of the fabric against your skin — so much so that you might just swap out your sweats for this beauty... maybe.
This dress should be machine washed in cold water, then reshaped and laid flat to dry.
Promising review: "Absolutely love this! The wrap-front is gorgeous, and the square neckline hides your bra straps perfectly. It’s a lighter sweater dress, just right for fall." —Paula C
Get it from Abercrombie for $60 (originally $80; available in sizes XXS–XL, three colors, and two lengths).
19. A starry velvet winter formal dress that will leave your friends totally starstruck when they see you in it. Plus, it’s so warm, you won’t even need to throw on a cardigan over it.
20. A puff-sleeve winter formal dress with an adorable square neckline and a soft silk fabric. You'll be finding any excuse to host a party just to show off this gorgeous piece.
Whimsy + Row is a female-owned boutique that specializes in fashionable clothing made with sustainable methods. Crafted from 100% raw silk, this dress requires dry cleaning.
Promising review: "I adore the flow of this dress. The fabric doesn’t wrinkle easily, and its texture is unlike anything I’ve seen before. I received so many compliments on how elegant I looked! The sleeves did tend to slide off my shoulders, but a quick fix kept them in place." —Sarah Larson
Get it from Whimsy + Row for $42 (originally $198; available in sizes XS–XL).
21. A printed winter formal dress that will surely turn heads and quickly be added to anyone's cart. The pleated skirt is practically begging for a twirl.
22. A lace-up sequin winter formal dress that radiates so much glam, your other dresses will be jealous as you choose it again for your next event.
For the best results, hand wash and line dry this dress.
Promising review: "This dress is absolutely stunning. I’m planning to wear it to a black-tie wedding and can’t wait for the final look. It’s exactly as shown in the photos, with a gorgeous color (I chose green). The adjustable ties allow for the perfect fit. It’s incredibly glamorous, and I highly recommend it!" —Megan L.
Get it from Lulus for $94 (available in sizes XXS–XL and two colors)
23. A tulip-wrap formal dress so comfortable you’ll want to wear it on your drive to a wedding an hour away, no need to pack a change of clothes.
24. A cutout maxi winter formal dress that lets your shoes shine too, with a sultry side slit that’ll make your black heels the center of attention.
Beginning Boutique is a woman-owned small business offering stylish outfits for all occasions.
Promising review: "This dress is gorgeous, made from thick, high-quality material. I received so many compliments when wearing it!" —Emma H.
"The dress fits nicely and the material is quite stretchy, so you might consider sizing down for a more fitted look." —delaynee m.
Get it from Beginning Boutique for $84.99 (available in sizes 2–8 and two colors).
25. A sheen winter formal dress calling your name to hit the dance floor, so you can sparkle and shine like your inner disco star.
Smart Glamour is a woman-owned small business that designs fashionable pieces that empower and boost confidence. Don't forget to fill out your measurements before adding to cart!
Get it from Smart Glamour for $65 (available in sizes XXS–15X and four colors).
26. A mock neck winter formal dress perfect for fans of mini dresses, featuring a flirty quarter-sleeve and a back cutout. You'll be raising your arms just to flaunt how fun and seductive it looks.
Hand wash this dress for the best care.
Promising review: "This dress is absolutely stunning. The velvet enhances the vibrant colors beautifully, but I do agree with others that sizing up might be a good idea. I'm typically a 12P, and it felt a bit tight. It's not short on me since I'm 5'0", but taller individuals might find it a little too short." —msmith113
Get it from Anthropologie for $180 (available in sizes 00–26 and two colors).
27. A Rent The Runway formal dress that's an absolute must-have for all the fall and winter weddings you’ll be attending. The best part? You can return it after your event, so it won’t take up any extra closet space, all while looking stunning.
Members can rent up to four pieces of clothing at a time for a period of up to eight days! Non-members can still rent pieces, though at a higher cost — and if you fall in love with an item, you have the option to purchase it at full price.
Promising review: "This dress was absolutely amazing! Beautiful, comfortable, and perfect for a destination wedding I attended 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.
28. A ruched black formal mini dress stylish enough to transition seamlessly from the bridal shower to that surprise bachelorette party you’ve been meticulously planning for months.
29. A luxurious long-sleeve velvet winter formal dress perfect for anyone who wants to earn top marks in elegance. It offers just the right amount of coverage, ensuring you can stroll from the car to the rehearsal dinner *without* worrying about frostbite on your way there.
30. A mesh-sleeve bodycon dress that keeps you covered while adding a touch of allure. The floral-patterned sleeves will have your look effortlessly blooming with beauty.
31. A ruffle-neck black formal dress that combines a vintage 19th-century vibe with a contemporary feel. No need to worry about irritation — the cotton fabric and inner slip ensure comfort even during lengthy award speeches.
Promising review: "This dress is amazing! The fabric is of excellent quality, and the fit is perfect. I bought both colors to choose one for a gala, but ended up keeping both because they are that good. I highly recommend this dress! Trust me, you won’t regret it." —Fable
Get it from J. Crew for $79.50 (originally $178; available in sizes XXS–3X and two colors).
32. A sophisticated Express black formal dress with a sleek, polished look, practically made to be paired with your favorite statement earrings and delicate necklaces.
Promising review: "The color and fabric are gorgeous — I bought all three available colors. It has a high-quality stretch, and the length is perfect, allowing for comfortable movement. This is a wardrobe must-have! I’ll be wearing it for years, and it transitions seamlessly between seasons, which is a huge plus!" —NYqt
Get it from Express for $61.60 (originally $88; available in sizes XS–XL and three colors).
33. A winter sweater formal dress that combines both style and comfort, so you can attend a winter gala without the hassle of matching a cardigan to your outfit.
Reviewers suggest sizing up if you have a larger chest for a better fit.
Promising review: "This dress is stunning! It fits beautifully and has the perfect balance of elegance and allure!" —anonymous
Get it from Banana Republic for $140 (available in sizes XXS–XL and two colors).
Prepare to be the center of attention...
The reviews for this post have been edited to improve length and clarity.
