The Best Black Tie Formal Dresses
Are you searching for the perfect dress to make a statement at your next formal event? Look no further! In this roundup, we’ve compiled a selection of stunning black tie formal dresses that are sure to turn heads and spark conversations. From elegant gowns to sophisticated cocktail dresses, these options offer the ideal combination of style and sophistication. Whether you prefer to go bold with vibrant colors or keep it classic in black, our collection has something for everyone to help you shine all night long.
The Top 6 Best Black Tie Formal Dresses
- Black Tie Strapless Gown with Satin and Draped Skirt — Discover the elegant Alfred Sung Women’s Strapless Draped Front Slit Satin Gown in Black, perfect for black-tie events and sure to captivate with its stunning drapes and full-length satin design.
- Black Tie Formal Dress with Wrap Design by Eliza J — Discover the elegance and comfort of Eliza J’s Long Sleeve Tuxedo Gown in Black at Nordstrom. Featuring a maxi length, salit-finish lapel collar, and waist tie, this eye-catching gown is perfect for any formal event.
- Stunning V-Neck Mermaid Gown — Experience elegance and comfort with the Adrianna Papell Women’s Jersey Tuxedo Gown, a luxurious stretchy matte jersey knit dress designed for black-tie events and formal celebrations.
- Betsy & Adam Strapless Tuxedo Gown — Size 6 — Dazzle in this stunning, Made in the USA, high-stretch polyester tuxedo gown with a silk collar and scuba crepe body, perfect for formal events and black tie occasions.
- Elegant Fringe Gown for Special Events — Show-stopping Tadashi Shoji Crystal Eyelash Fringe Gown in Black — Perfect for evening galas, black tie events, or as a standout mother of the bride or groom dress, featuring a flattering fitted silhouette and eye-catching fringe embellishments.
- Embellished Tulle High-Low Gown in Black — Experience the allure of the Mac Duggal Women’s Embellished Tulle High-Low Gown, artfully tailored with a glamorous embellished bodice and sweetheart neckline for stunning black tie formal events.
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Reviews
Black Tie Strapless Gown with Satin and Draped Skirt
A sleek, stylish gown that’s perfect for black tie events, this satin stunner by Alfred Sung adds a touch of elegance to any fancy function. The adjustable straps make it versatile, and the hidden pocket is surprisingly useful.
I wore this to a friend’s wedding and my only complaint was that the fabric wasn’t as luxurious as I expected. However, the satin does drape beautifully and it’s true to size.
If you’re looking for a classic, timeless gown that’s sure to get you noticed, this might be the one for you. Although, keep in mind the sizing can run a bit small and it’s not lined, so it might not be as comfortable as it looks. Overall, a beautiful dress that’s simple yet elegant, perfect for any fancy event, as long as you’re willing to overlook the couple of flaws.
Black Tie Formal Dress with Wrap Design by Eliza J
I recently wore the Eliza J Long Sleeve Tuxedo Gown to a friend’s wedding, and I must say, it received rave reviews! The standout feature of this dress for me was its stunning design — the wrap-style and satin-finish lapel collar made it feel like a chic little tuxedo. Additionally, the tie-front detail added a touch of charm that really set the gown apart.
One downside, however, is the gown’s heavier weight. While it’s not a deal-breaker, it did make for a slightly challenging dance floor experience. On the plus side, the dress is made of high-quality fabric that didn’t wrinkle and looked beautiful throughout the night.
All in all, the Eliza J Long Sleeve Tuxedo Gown is an elegant and eye-catching option for any formal event. It’s worth trying on, especially if you’re looking to make a statement!
Stunning V-Neck Mermaid Gown
I recently attended my best friend’s wedding and decided to give this Adrianna Papell’s Women’s Jersey Tuxedo Gown a go. Right from the packaging, I could see it’s a high-quality piece. The luxurious stretchy matte jersey knit felt comfortably heavy and draped beautifully as I slid it on.
The flattering twist-front accent was my personal favorite feature. It gave me an hourglass shape that made me feel confident and elegant. The ruched detailing added a touch of class while still maintaining comfort. The sleek back zip closure was unobtrusive but ensured a snug fit.
However, one downside is its length. At 5'3", even with heels, I found myself needing a few inches taken off to prevent trips. Additionally, while I appreciated the low V-neckline, others might not feel as comfortable with it.
Overall, I’ve received numerous compliments on this gown and feel it’s a worthwhile investment for anyone looking for a stunning black tie attire. It’s comfortable, beautifully made, and truly enhances your appearance. Just remember to get it tailored if necessary!
Betsy & Adam Strapless Tuxedo Gown — Size 6
I recently had the pleasure of wearing the Betsy & Adam Strapless Tuxedo Gown to a friend’s black-tie wedding, and I must say it’s one of the most elegant and comfortable dresses I’ve ever worn. The fabric is incredibly stretchy and flattering, allowing for a perfect fit without feeling constricting. The silk collar tuxedo top adds a touch of sophistication while the scuba crepe body adds structure and support. Dry clean only, this gown is made in the USA with attention to detail and quality.
The only downside I found was the sizing. As a larger-busted woman, I had to size up for a comfortable fit, which meant hemming it to the right length. However, I received countless compliments on its elegant design and stunning appearance. Overall, I would highly recommend this strapless tuxedo gown for any formal occasion where you want to make a bold statement.
Elegant Fringe Gown for Special Events
As I twirled in the luxurious Tadashi Shoji Crystal Eyelash Fringe Gown, I felt like I was the belle of the ball. Its flattering silhouette and eye-catching fringe and beadwork truly made heads turn. Don’t let its stunning appearance intimidate you — despite its glamorous appearance, this gown feels incredibly comfortable on the skin. I was pleasantly surprised by how well it adapts to my body shape, fitting me perfectly without any issues.
However, I can’t ignore the fact that it runs a little large. I usually wear a size 4 in most dresses, but the XS version of this gown was just a tad too loose for my liking. But that minor inconvenience pales in comparison to how amazing I felt in this gown. Its rich black color, paired with the sparkling beadwork, was a show-stopping combination that perfectly captured the essence of a formal gala event.
With its puddling hemline and textured fringe, this gown from Tadashi Shoji truly stands out as a stylish option for any formal event. While its size may be slightly off, its comfort and charm make it worth every penny. Overall, I highly recommend this gown to anyone seeking a stunning and stylish ensemble for their next black-tie affair.
Embellished Tulle High-Low Gown in Black
When the invitations for my cousin’s wedding came in, I was thrilled to have an excuse to indulge in a new gown. The Mac Duggal Women’s Embellished Tulle High-Low Gown in black was exactly what I needed. From the moment I slipped it on, I felt like a glam queen.
The standout feature for me was the embellished bodice. It added just the right amount of sparkle without being too over-the-top. The sweetheart neckline paired perfectly with the paghetti straps, creating a flattering yet elegant look.
As much as I loved the ruffled skirt, I did feel the dress was a bit too long on me (I’m 5'5"). And yes, the size 14 was a bit snug. But hey, that’s what alterations are for, right?
Despite these minor issues, this gown had me twirling all night on the dance floor. And let me tell you, that high-low hemline? It’s pure perfection. For anyone looking for a stunning black tie dress that’s sure to turn heads, you won’t be disappointed with this one.
Buyer’s Guide
Black tie formal dresses are an elegant choice for special occasions and events. Whether it’s a wedding, charity gala, or other high-end event, choosing the right black tie dress is important to make sure you look your best. Here are some key features, considerations, and advice to help you select the perfect black tie dress for any event.
Fabric and Style
Black tie formal dresses often feature luxurious fabrics such as silk, satin, or chiffon. Look for a dress that is comfortable and suitable for the season, and consider the type of event you’ll be attending. For a winter ball, a long-sleeved dress made from thicker fabric might be more appropriate, while a lightweight chiffon dress would be ideal for a summer garden party.
Silhouette and Fit
When selecting a black tie formal dress, pay attention to the silhouette and fit. A-line, mermaid, and ballgown styles are all popular options. Be sure to choose a dress that flatters your body type and feels comfortable to wear. Don’t forget to accessorize with appropriate footwear and jewelry, as these can significantly enhance your overall look.
Color and Pattern
While black is the classic choice for black tie formal dresses, you might also consider navy, burgundy, or other deep, rich colors. Incorporating subtle patterns or embellishments can also add interest to your outfit. Just remember to keep the overall look polished and sophisticated, avoiding bright colors or overly bold prints that may not be appropriate for a more formal event.
Consider Time and Budget
When shopping for a black tie formal dress, consider both the time and budget constraints you may have. Take into account how soon you need the dress and how much you’re able to spend. This will help narrow down your search and ensure you find the perfect dress for your event without breaking the bank.
FAQ
What is the definition of “black tie” dress code?
Black tie is a formal dress code that typically involves men wearing tuxedos and women wearing long evening gowns or cocktail dresses.
What kind of dresses are suitable for a black tie event?
For a black tie event, appropriate dresses would be floor-length gowns or high-quality cocktail dresses in elegant materials such as satin, silk, chiffon, or velvet.
Can you wear a short dress to a black tie event?
While traditional black tie attire involves long maxi dresses or gowns, it’s acceptable to wear a shorter, yet still elegant, cocktail dress. However, the dress should still be made from high-quality material and have a sophisticated design.
What colors are appropriate for a black tie dress?
Traditional black tie dress colors include black, navy blue, shades of red, deep greens, and metallic hues. However, lighter colors such as blush, pale blue, or nude can also work as long as they are paired with appropriate accessories and makeup.
What kind of accessories should be worn with a black tie dress?
Depending on the dress, you may want to pair it with elegant earrings or a statement necklace, a clutch purse, and strappy heels or elegant pumps. Additionally, a matching clutch, bracelet, or wrist corsage could also be suitable accents for your black tie dress.
How should hair and makeup be styled for a black tie event?
Hair and makeup should be elegant, polished, and sophisticated for a black tie event. Consider elegant updos or loose, flowing waves paired with smoky eyes and a bold lip color. The overall look should be timeless and glamorous.
What is the difference between a black tie and a white tie dress code?
A white tie dress code is even more formal than black tie, and typically requires men to wear tailcoats and women to wear full-length ball gowns with long white gloves and an opera-length necklace. In contrast, black tie dress code is slightly less formal, allowing for elegant long gowns or sophisticated cocktail dresses.
Where can I purchase black tie formal dresses?
High-end department stores, designer boutiques, and specialty formal wear stores often carry black tie formal dresses. Additionally, online retailers such as Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Nordstrom offer a wide selection of black tie formal dresses to suit various tastes and budgets.
How much should I expect to spend on a black tie formal dress?
The cost of a black tie formal dress can vary greatly depending on the designer, material, and intricacy of the design. Prices can range from a few hundred dollars for more affordable options to several thousand dollars for high-end designer gowns.
How do I care for and maintain my black tie formal dress after the event?
After the event, gently brush off any dirt or stains with a soft-bristled brush. If necessary, spot clean the dress using a gentle detergent and cold water. Store the dress in a protective garment bag or on a padded hanger to help maintain its shape and prevent creasing. Do not dry clean or wash the dress unless absolutely necessary, as this may cause damage to the fabric.
