Our wedding is coming up in a little under a month and I’ve been fielding questions from guests about our dress code. It’s going to be a formal event, which means black tie wedding guest dresses are top of mind right now! There are a few guidelines to consider when shopping for one:

Knee-length dresses that are extra formal are fair game, though I prefer something at least midi-length.
Because black tie weddings are more elevated, I personally like to wear more classic dresses. Though this doesn’t mean you can’t wear something your style!
Modern details like beaded velvet, knot accents and neoprene fabric are still appropriate as long as they aren’t overpowering so you don’t upstage the bride. This is also something to consider if you’re planning to invest in one dress for multiple occasions!
The accessories are just as important as the dress. I recommend heels and statement jewelry to bring the look together.

All of the black tie wedding guest dresses you see here are from BHLDN, Revolve and Shopbop. They’re really good resources for formalwear because of their range in prices, designers and styles. I also appreciate that they offer free returns within a certain timeframe so you can order and try on different options.

If you’re searching black tie wedding dresses to find something for one specific event, it’s worth considering their theme and color palette because the point of a dress code is to help create a consistent aesthetic. It should also be noted that black tie can mean something slightly different to everyone. For example, some people feel strongly about having full-length dresses or prefer more traditional styles. While ultimately the couple just wants everyone to feel confident and comfortable, if you have any doubts or questions, definitely contact them or a member of the wedding party just in case.