Finding a wedding guest dress can be challenging. Adding the extra complexity that comes with it being for a black-tie wedding takes it up a notch. For those invited to a formal affair, start by looking over the invitation and wedding website for any specific dress code guidelines since every wedding is different. While it’s essential to choose something that makes you feel comfortable and confident, you also need to ensure your outfit aligns with the black-tie dress code.
If the invitation specifies “black-tie wedding,” and you’re unsure what that means, you’re not alone. We’ve compiled helpful tips, from understanding the dress code to online shopping ideas and outfit examples, to get you started.
Tips for Purchasing Black Tie Wedding Guest Dresses
Purchasing black-tie wedding guest dresses sometimes requires more time and effort. With specific dress code restrictions, you can’t just hit ‘purchase’ for any dress you find online. You must be mindful of the colors, fabric, and formality. Before diving into where to buy black-tie wedding guest dresses online, here are some tips to consider.
- Check the wedding invitation for specific dress code requirements that could influence your outfit choice.
- Consider the wedding season before purchasing your wedding guest dress—this could influence the color, style, or fabric choice.
- If possible, purchase your dress months in advance. This will give you ample time to make any necessary returns or alterations.
- Don’t rule out luxury dress rental services.
- Don’t forget to accessorize with elegant pieces like a classy clutch, sparkling necklace, or elegant heels.
- When purchasing online, it’s important to review the return policy in case the dress doesn’t fit or meet your expectations.
Where to Purchase Black Tie Wedding Guest Dresses
Not every store will carry dresses that fit the formal requirements of a black-tie wedding. That’s why it’s so important to be selective about where you shop. To help you start your search, here’s a list of top retailers known for their elegant, high-quality gowns that are perfect for a black tie affair.
Dress Ideas for those Attending a Black Tie Wedding
Now that you’ve got these tips and a list of where to shop for elegant black tie wedding guest dresses, it’s time to start shopping. To help you get started, we’ve rounded up some stunning black tie wedding guest dress ideas from each retailer that’ll have you looking and feeling like a million dollars.
BHLDN Luella Strapless Side-Slit Stretch Velvet Maxi Dress; BHLDN Selma Halter-Neck Satin Maxi Dress; BHLDN Saylor Cowl-Neck Satin Maxi Dress; By Anthropologie Long-Sleeve Off-The-Shoulder Knit Maxi Dress; Mac Duggal Square-Neck Ruffled Tiered Tulle Tea-Length Dress; Significant Other Lana Cowl-Neck Tie-Back Satin Maxi Dress
Sathia Dress; Donya Dress; Rosy Dress; Pernille Silk Dress; Anaiis Silk Dress; Oren Silk Dress
Julia Dress; x REVOLVE Silk Rosalie Dress; Dorothea Gown; Penelope Gown; Alice Strapless Gown; x REVOLVE Angel Strapless Midi Dress
Pleated Off-Shoulder Stretch Crepe Gown; Metallic Organza Backless Halter Gown; Floral Crushed Velvet Backless Gown; Off-Shoulder Stretch Velvet Gown; Angelique Metallic Jacquard Column Gown; The Romee Draped One-Shoulder Column Gown; Backless Maxi Cami Dress
Bonnie Gown; Kruse Gown; Agyness Gown; Mae Gown; Candice Gown; Maia Gown
So you’ve been invited to a wedding, but instead of “black tie,” the dress code reads “black tie optional.” What does that even mean? To clear up the confusion, here’s a breakdown of what black tie optional really means, plus a few outfit ideas.