These 22 Black-Tie Wedding Guest Dresses Are Red-Carpet Worthy
Here's exactly how to nail the most glamorous of dress codes.
Basically, 2022 is the year of the postponed wedding. Ask anybody over the age of 26 and they’ll likely tell you they’ve attended one every other week since January. And we hate to break it to you, but winter weddings are coming up in no time and cold-weather nuptials are more likely to be black tie. While dressing for a black-tie wedding seems more formulaic than most with floor-length gowns and pumps, it’s fun to get a little more creative. When else do you have an excuse to dress up like a red-carpet celebrity after all?
Though it’s a fun thought, dressing like a gala-going Hollywood star is also significantly daunting. So … where exactly should you start? Consider the setting, New York City–based stylist Alexis Badiyi says. “The time of year, weather, and location can determine everything,” she adds, mentioning that the best black-tie wedding guest dress doesn’t need to be a dress at all. “A gorgeous tuxedo works, too, and there’s room to play with hair, makeup, and jewelry.”
You can also phone a friend. Los Angeles–based stylist Patricia Lagmay thinks the best way to find something to wear for more formal events is to crowdsource. “Most of us attend very few events that call for a black-tie dress, and it’s always a shame when we buy something for a specific occasion only to never wear it again,” she says. “Closet sharing is a great solve for that. It’s more economical and much less wasteful too.” But if you want something unlike anything your friends have ever seen, Badiyi proposes looking for one-of-a-kind archival vintage pieces from resale sites like The RealReal, 1stDibs, and Desert Vintage.
One thing to keep in mind, though, Lagmay says, is length. “It’s the easiest way to tick the black-tie box,” she says. “Often, a simple and striking dress will do the trick, so long as it hits the ground or comes close.” Ahead, the best black-tie wedding guest dresses with all the glitz and glamour of a full-blown red-carpet affair, long floor-grazing trains included.
Finley Sequined gown, $1,209, Jonathan Simkhai "When in doubt, classic and simple is best," Badiyi says. This silver sequined gown is more than perfect for a New Year's Eve wedding.
Jones Bow-Appliqué Taffeta Gown, $1,289, Bernadette The bow appliqué on this navy taffeta gown gives it a little something extra. After the black-tie wedding, hem it with a tailor for a date night cocktail dress.
Serpentine Crystal Maxi Dress, around $19,767, Cucculelli Shaheen Go ahead and pull out all the stops with this green number. It boasts embroidered tube beads, rondels, and crystals for an all-over sheen.
Deco Black Sequin Evening Gown, $4,720, Desert Vintage
A favorite of Badiyi’s for vintage fashion, Desert Vintage offers dozens of black-tie options, including this sequin and chiffon number that’s sure to impress. Tie your hair back and let the dress do the talking.
Jeany Silk Dress, $510, Reformation A beige silk halter-top gown is adaptable to multiple seasons. For a winter wedding, however, play up the look with crystal jewelry and a beaded minaudiere.
Crystal-Encrusted Velvet Gown, $9,875, Marchesa
This black gown from Marchesa is a stunner. All this crystal embroidered velvet number needs is sleek hair and makeup for a '90s glam vibe.
Cutout One-Shoulder Chiffon Gown, $3,169, Halpern
This red gown from Halpern is sure to be a showstopper. Pair it with sparkly shoes from Amina Muaddi for a modern touch.
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Mirla Off-Shoulder Draped Velvet Gown, around $1,539, Chiara Boni La Petite Robe
This draped velvet gown has a thigh-high slit and an open neckline making it the perfect dress for showing off your favorite shoes and necklace. For a more pared-back look, opt for a simple set of hoop earrings instead.
Satin Maxi Dress, around $2,471, LAPOINTE A satin maxi gown with a daring side slit is reminiscent of Old Hollywood glam. Add chandelier earrings and a low bun to nail the retro look.
Crepe Halter Gown, around $3,093, Elie Saab You can't go wrong with a classic red dress, especially when you wear it with a classic red lip.
Single-Breasted Tuxedo Jacket, $5311, Giorgio Armani Badiyi was onto something when she suggested a tuxedo over a dress. Opt for a classic tuxedo jacket instead with matching pants and a timeless stiletto heel.
Mesh-Panelled Velvet Gown, $5,017, Tom Ford
Tom Ford is the master of sophisticated sexy, and this gown is exactly that. The daring cutout makes it on trend, but the length and sleeves keep it from being too daring.
Beaded Cold-Shoulder Velvet Gown, $558, Aidan Mattox A simple but stunning floor-length gown you can still dance in? It's what every girl dreams of.
Crystal and Mirror-Striped Satin Column Gown, $5,533, David Koma
This disco-inspired dress is for an evening spent tearing up the dance floor. For a full Studio 54–inspired look, be sure to style with minimal accessories in a deep jewel tone, like sapphire.
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Keanu Silk-Blend Longline Coat, $4,922, The Row
If a full-on tuxedo isn't your vibe, perhaps this longline coat with a removable outer layer from The Row will do the trick. Wear it over a simple gown, or belt it and wear it as its own dress.
This Grecian-inspired gold dress is something you can wear time and time again. Want to transform it into a holiday party look? Add some glitzy accessories and you're set. Cleo in Egyptian Gold Dress, $1,307, New Arrivals
Off-the-Shoulder Gown, $3,350, Balenciaga
There's no way you won't be the wedding's best-dressed guest in this gown from Balenciaga. And if possible, pair it with a silver Le Cagole bag, of course.
Crissy Gown, $1,900, Cult Gaia A marigold gown is universally flattering and a great way to wow fellow wedding-goers. It also pairs beautifully with metallic accessories that'll get you endless compliments all night.
Twist-Front Cutout Crepe Gown, $6,537, Givenchy
A simple column dress, like this one from Givenchy, is exactly what Lagmay means when she says simpler is better. A red lip and a chic low ponytail complete the look.
Etna Draped Jersey Gown Long Dress w/ Tags, 16ARLINGTON
The RealReal is the perfect place to find a dress no one else will be wearing at the wedding you're attending. With a deep cowl neck and a bright pink hue, this secondhand 16Arlington gown is made for standing out.
Chain Halter Maxi Dress, $836.39, DANNIJO
If you thought this gown was gorgeous from the front, wait until you see the crystal embellishment on the open back. A pair of lace-up heels seals the deal.
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Strapless Deep V-Neck Crepe Gown, around $346, Aidan by Aidan Mattox
What's stopping you from opting for a plunging neckline and a thigh-high slit? Pair it with minimal jewelry and it's a full look.
This article originally appeared on Harper's BAZAAR US.