Black Tie Dresses

What Counts as a Black Tie Dress

For most black tie events, guests shop for floor-length formal dresses in elevated fabrics and clean silhouettes. If the dress code is black tie optional, a very formal midi can work, but anything short or casual tends to miss the mark.

Shop Black Tie Dresses by Silhouette

Choose the shape that matches your comfort level and how formal the venue feels.

A-line black tie gowns for a timeless, flattering fit
Mermaid and trumpet gowns for red-carpet energy
Column and sheath evening gowns for a sleek, minimalist look
Wrap and empire waist formal dresses for an easier fit through the waist and bust
Long sleeve formal gowns for cooler seasons and more coverage

Length Guide for Black Tie Dresses

Floor-length black tie dresses are the most traditional and widely accepted option.
Ankle-length and formal midis can work when the styling is elevated and the event is not strictly traditional.

FAQs About Black Tie Dresses

Do black tie dresses have to be floor-length?

For a true black-tie dress code, a floor-length evening gown is the safest choice. Shorter options can be acceptable only when the host/venue is more relaxed, but “long” is still the default expectation.

Can I wear a midi dress to a black tie event?

Sometimes. A formal midi can work if it’s in an evening fabric (satin, velvet, silk, lace) and styled upscale, but if you don’t know the crowd, choose a gown to avoid being underdressed.

What’s the difference between black tie and black tie optional?

Black tie implies tuxedos and gowns. Black tie optional means guests can do true black tie, or slightly less formal “formal” attire (for women, a gown or a very dressy cocktail dress).

What fabrics look “black tie” (and which look too casual)?

Black tie dresses should look evening-ready: velvet, chiffon, silk, satin, lace are reliable. Casual cottons, jersey sundress vibes, or anything that reads “daytime” usually misses the mark.

What should I avoid wearing to a black tie event?

Avoid anything too short, too revealing, or too casual, black tie is a formal standard, so the outfit should look intentionally elevated. When in doubt, err more formal.

Is a long dress automatically black tie?

Not necessarily. People often get told “it’s long, so it’s fine,” but many discussions point out that black tie also expects a more structured, luxe look, fabric and finish matter, not just length.

Are sequins okay for black tie (especially weddings)?

Sequins can work for black tie because they read “evening,” but the safest approach is controlled sparkle (one statement element, not head-to-toe costume shine), especially for weddings where you don’t want to pull focus.

What shoes and accessories are safest with black tie dresses?

Keep it formal and minimal: a small clutch, refined jewelry, and dress shoes (not casual sandals/sneakers). If the event is black tie optional, many guests still choose classic, formal shoes to keep the look elevated.