Black Tie Wedding Guest Dresses

Black tie wedding guest dresses for evening ceremonies, formal receptions and galas, when the invitation asks for floor-length. Every style here is a full-length gown: AirMesh™, our stretch mesh that drapes close to the body and breathes through a long night; LumiSatin™, our satin with a liquid sheen; and sleek stretch columns and metallics. Colors run from black, burgundy and red to bronze, gold, brown and soft pastels. White, ivory and cream are left to the bride.

29 styles, from US$260. Each style shows its price in your currency.

Black tie is the most formal dress code most guests will meet. For women it means a floor-length gown, or a long dress that is just as formal; ankle length works, knee length does not. Choose a fabric with weight or sheen, keep jewelry refined, and plan for a long evening of dinner, speeches and dancing. Halter, one-shoulder, strapless, off-shoulder and cowl necklines all work, in black, deep red, jewel tones, metallics or soft pastels.

What should I wear to a black tie wedding?
A floor-length evening gown in a formal fabric such as satin, draped mesh or a metallic finish. Black and deep colors are classic after dark; jewel tones, bronze, gold and soft pastels are just as appropriate. Leave white, ivory and cream to the bride.

What does black tie optional mean?
The hosts will dress black tie, and guests may go one step down. A floor-length gown is still the safest choice, but a polished midi in an elevated fabric also works; you'll find those in Cocktail Wedding.

Can I wear black to a black tie wedding?
Yes. Black suits an evening black tie wedding and is widely accepted. For a daytime ceremony or a more traditional family, deep red or burgundy is a softer alternative.

Can I wear a metallic gown to a black tie wedding?
Yes, especially to an evening or winter wedding. Bronze and gold read festive and formal; keep jewelry minimal and let the dress lead.

How long should a black tie dress be?
Floor-length. Most gowns here measure 145 to 150 cm (57 to 59 in), and each product page lists the exact length. Stretch styles can sit shorter on a fuller bust or hips, so if length matters, email [email protected] with your height, bust, waist and hips before you order. Custom lengths are available.

Which fabric is best for a black tie wedding?
AirMesh™ (90% polyamide, 10% elastane) is light and breathable and moves with you, which helps through a long evening or in a warm climate. LumiSatin™ (100% polyester) has a liquid sheen that reads formal in photographs; steam it on low to remove packing creases. Our stretch column gowns (93% Tencel, 7% spandex) hold a sleek, sculpted line.

Will it arrive in time for the wedding?
Delivery time depends on your country and on whether the style is in stock or on pre-order. If you're ordering for a date, email [email protected] with your country and the date before you order.

Read the full guide: What to Wear to a Black Tie Wedding: A Guest's Guide. Also see Evening Gowns, Satin Dresses and Maxi Wedding Guest Dresses.