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Editor’s note: Article updated on April 28, 2023.
We’re pretty much at the start of wedding season, and our calendars are filling up fast. The last thing we want to be worrying about is what we’re going to wear, and if you have no clue where to start, fall back on the most trusted option in existence — a killer black dress!
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No matter what the theme or location, a black dress will be a safe bet for more reasons than one. It’s a timeless hue, and it’s a strong color if there will be photos taken. Its flattering effect can’t be ignored!
But then there’s the next question: Which type of black dress should you buy? There are a few different options available. If the vibe of the wedding is more low-key, you can opt for a shorter dress or a frock with a simpler silhouette. That said, some basic dresses can actually look chic and elevated with the right styling — so it completely depends on how you want to accessorize it. If the dress code is fancier, we think a full-length style is definitely the way to go!
Black dresses also have another major advantage: You can wear them over and over again! You don’t want to spend serious money on a dress that’s going to end up collecting dust after a wedding, but if you buy a black one, you may find yourself reaching for it more often. With that in mind, we picked out a number of black dresses that will fit the aesthetic for any wedding event you’re shopping for. One of these styles could become your new go-to LBD for upcoming summer, fall and winter events!
Shelly High Slit Glitter Knit Formal Dress
Cowl neck tops and dresses are some of our favorite styles to shop for, and this gown takes the look to the ultimate elegant level. While it’s still comfy and easy to rock, the floor length and dramatic high slit make it fit for a formal affair. Plus, the fabric has a dusting of subtle glitter so you can sparkle!
Pros
Affordable
Comfy, stretchy knit fabric
Cons
Non-adjustable straps
Available at: Windsor
Kimberly Formal Flocked Mesh A-Line Dress
Lace, lace and more face! If you’re a fan of this dainty and romantic material, this is the frock to rock. The floor-length gown is lined with black satin and has the most beautiful floral face overlay on top that’s flowy and fabulous. The dress also gets bonus points for the slits on the front of the lining which show off your legs!
Pros
Flattering empire waist
Comfortable fit
Criss-cross adjustable straps in the back
Cons
Limited sizing
Available at: Windsor
Petal & Pup Pontee Plissé One-Shoulder Midi Dress
Nordstrom
If you want to go for a long and sweet garment but still look glamorous and occasion-appropriate, this is the one! It’s very simple, but the one-shoulder design and flouncy, curvy hem make it feel truly special.
Pros
Moderately affordable
Breathable polyester
Loose-fit for more comfort
Cons
May be a bit too long for some
Available at: Nordstrom
LYANER Women’s Bodycon Midi Dress
This dress takes the concept of a classic LBD and puts a more unique spin on the look! We adore the asymmetrical hem as well as the neckline, plus the more fitted design is incredibly figure-flattering. Shoppers say they were super impressed with how incredible they look in the dress — not to mention how comfortable it is!
Pros
Affordable
Flattering fit
Tons of color options
Cons
Material may be a bit sheer
Available at: Amazon
The Drop Women’s Ana Silky V-Neck Midi Slip Dress
Slip dresses like this one will always look great, as they give you a ton of styling room to work with. You can put your own spin on this dress by adding different types of accessories so you can wear it in various ways. If you want a versatile dress, this is the one to buy!
Pros
Simple style
Super versatile
Tons of positive reviews
Cons
Slightly higher price tag
Available at: Amazon
ZAFUL Women’s Satin Cowl Neck Mini Dress
This divine little dress was made for fun! We like the way the material drapes on the body and shows plenty of leg with the added side slits. If you’re looking for a dress you can seriously party in, this beauty has your name written all over it!
Pros
Super affordable
Tons of color options
Flattering fit
Cons
May run a bit small
Available at: Amazon
Cosonsen Deep V-Neck Long Sleeve Ruffle Swing Dress
If you want to pick up a dress with more of a boho feel, this may be the winner! The ruffle hem provides a much more carefree vibe that feels fabulously flowy. This dress may be a bit too casual for a wedding, but when you buy it in black, it immediately feels dressier and more wedding-appropriate!
Pros
Comfortable fit
Affordable
Top-rated Amazon style
Cons
Sizing is a bit tricky
May be too short for some
Available at: Amazon
La Femme Strapless Ruched Soft Jersey Gown
The sleek design of this full-length gown is ideal if you’re a fan of the minimalist look! The high-low style on the front of the dress can actually make you look taller and elongate the body, which can complement so many figures.
Pros
Incredibly versatile style
Figure-flattering
Cons
Higher-end price tag
Limited sizing
Available at: Nordstrom
Dress the Population Nicole Sweetheart Neck Cocktail Dress
Timeless is the name of the game with this adorable cocktail dress! Shoppers can’t stop raving about how confident they feel in this dress — they adore the “classy” feel it exudes. You’ll be able to wear it to so many special events that aren’t just wedding-related!
Pros
Plenty of positive reviews
Comfortable fit
Classic silhouette
Cons
Limited sizing
Higher price tag
Available at: Nordstrom
French Connection Whisper Ruffle Minidress
Shorter dresses may look like they’re better suited for the club than a formal wedding, but not this one! The added ruffles on the sleeves and the structured silhouette give this LBD a more refined look that’s dreamy for any type of wedding.
Pros
High-quality materials
Tons of glowing reviews
Cons
Slightly pricy
Shoppers say the dress runs very small
Available at: Nordstrom
Ever-Pretty Women’s Off Shoulder Dress
This is the best dress to buy if you’re attending a wedding with a black tie dress code. It has a more dramatic feel, but it’s still understated enough to not upstage the bride on her big day!
Pros
Comfortable fit
Affordable
Positive customer feedback
Cons
May be too long for some
Available at: Amazon
Sukleet Women’s V-Neck Satin Dress
How could anyone not fall in love with this fierce mini dress? We love the silhouette and think it would be impossible for anyone to look bad in it. Shoppers say the quality that you get for the price is truly unmatched!
Pros
Currently on sale
Impressively expansive sizing available
Versatile design
Cons
Finding the right size may be tricky
Available at: Amazon
Floerns Women’s Plunging Neck Spaghetti Strap Maxi Dress
Reviewers claim this full-length maxi dress totally exceeded their expectations! It has the unique ability to feel both covered-up while showing off some extra skin thanks to its sheer elements. Wearing this dress is certainly going to make a major statement!
Pros
Super affordable
Tons of positive customer feedback
Comfortable fit
Cons
May run small
Available at: Amazon
Steve Madden Florentina Rosette Ruffle Georgette Halter Dress
Nordstrom
If you prefer to wear formal clothing that has a Y2K twist, then you’ll love this halter dress. It has a beautiful rosette embellishment at the neckline and has a slight handkerchief hemline for a fashion-forward, elevated vibe.
Pros
Super affordable
Comfortable fit
Cons
May run small
Available at: Nordstrom
Chelsea28 Flirt Peplum Minidress
Nordstrom
For those who are more toned down with their formal clothing, you’ll love this peplum minidress. It’s the perfect flirty piece thanks to its flouncy skirt overlay and it’s form-hugging skirt underneath — which allow for plenty of movement.
Pros
Currently on sale
Versatile design
Cons
May be too short for some
Available at: Nordstrom
Unique Wedding Gift Ideas for Brides and Grooms
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