The Best Black Tie Dresses & Outfits for Wedding Guests

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Of all the wedding dress codes, black tie is probably the most iconic. You see it everywhere, from James Bond-esque soirées to lavish galas or exclusive awards nights. It’s all about embracing that sophisticated, sleek vibe that says "effortlessly polished."

While it’s likely that you’re familiar with the black tie dress code, that doesn’t mean you’re any closer to finding something to wear to your next wedding.

But let’s make it clear, black tie doesn’t necessarily require an all-in-black look. While black wedding guest dresses are an easy way to secure your dream wedding guest dress - black being easy to style, eternally elegant, and flattering for most - don’t shy away from experimenting with some colour if that’s what you typically gravitate towards. Remember, “black tie” indicates the formality of the event, rather than the colour of the clothing.

We’ve found the best black tie dresses for women wedding guests, and black tie outfit ideas for men to help you nail everyone’s favourite wedding guest dress code. 

Black Tie Dress Code for Women: The 16 Best Black Tie Dresses for Wedding Guests

Black tie sits comfortably at the peak of formality without being too over-the-top. It’s that sweet spot between cocktail attire and the ultra-fancy white tie. Think of it as the perfect balance—refined enough to make you feel fancy, but not so rigid that it feels overly stuffy, requiring a whole new wardrobe. In other words, black tie is the dress code that allows you to look polished while still having some room to play with your style.

On the hunt for the perfect dress? We’ve got you covered with the 16 best black tie dresses for wedding guests. From sleek and sophisticated satin numbers from the likes of Club L London, Mango and PLT, to dresses with beautiful tulle and trains from Coast, Lavish Alice and Warehouse to help you make a statement, and a little taste of luxury with some of our favourite designer black tie wedding guest dresses from NET-A-PORTER, we’ve truly thought of everything. 

1. Lita Black Twisted Asymmetric Maxi Dress - £50, Club L London

While there's no need to wear black to a black-tie wedding, who wouldn't want to when this Club L London dress is an option? Sleek and sophisticated, this maxi dress is the perfect amount of stunning without stealing the show, ideal for a wedding guest. We love the asymmetric neckline detail - something that continues to be popular within bridal fashion, with no signs of slowing down. 

2. Oren Silk Dress - £348, Reformation

Looking for a style that can't go wrong? A silky satin bias midi or maxi dress is your answer, and Reformation knows how to do it right. The rich, jewel-like navy offers a safe yet striking alternative to a classic black wedding guest dress, and the addition of the stylish scarf is perfect for upping the formality level.

3. Tulle Spot Sleeveless Plunge Neck Gathered Waist Tier Maxi Dress - £97.30, Warehouse

Tulle dresses aren't just reserved for the bride and bridal party, we love a bit of bounce, shape and movement when it comes to wedding guest dresses too. If you've been busy keeping up with trends, you'll know that monochrome looks have been one to watch in 2024, and this Warehouse number is no exception. The plunging neckline, paired with the full skirt offers beautiful balance and style, ideal for black-tie weddings. 

4. Mademoiselle Bottle Green Satin Asymmetric Scarf Neck Backless Maxi Dress - £120, Club L London

If there's a colour we'd keep coming back to, it'd have to be emerald green - especially during the autumn and winter months. This Club L London dress is the definition of a sleek and elegant, classic black-tie wedding guest dress, making it an eternally timeless pick. The neckline ensures it stands out from the crowd, and as we mentioned, a scarf or exaggerated neck detail is almost an essential component. 

5. Black Velvet Bow Front Eliana Midi Dress - £110, Nobody's Child

If you're one for trends, this Nobody's Child dress has it all. Both monochrome and adorned with bows, this dress is definitely one to watch. The simple silhouette, being cami straps and midi length, makes this style ultra-wearable for multiple occasions, and the velvet fabric makes it the perfect winter wedding guest dress. 

6. Taylor Twisted One Shoulder Maxi Dress with Train In Black - £198, Lavish Alice

Searching for something red carpet-worthy? Look no further than Lavish Alice. As you can probably tell by now, there's a bit of a theme going on with the monochrome looks, and we're not going to complain. The sweeping floor-length skirt, and classy one-shoulder neckline are perfect for those who want to embrace the elevated formality. 

7. Bardot Brooklyn Velour Midi Dress - £139, Anthropologie

If you're all about the warm, wintry, party-season vibe, this Anthropologie midi dress has your name all over it. It's beautifully structured from an incredibly soft velour fabric, with the addition of the sparkly trim across the neckline and straps, this gown is perfect for weddings occurring during the colder months. 

8. Black Satin Cowl Neck Draped Maxi Dress - £38, PLT

We all know that PrettyLittleThing is the expert in making trendy styles affordable to all. And, just because you're heading to a black-tie wedding, doesn't mean you need to blow the budget. As this gorgeous satin number indicates, it's possible to find a beautiful black-tie dress for well under £50. The draped design works perfectly alongside the satin, making this a flattering choice for a range of body types. 

9. Bardot Liyana Ruched Mesh Maxi Dress - £109, Anthropologie

Black-tie wedding guest dresses can be both stylish and weather-appropriate, and this Anthropologie style shows us just that. Don't discount long sleeves for wedding attire, especially if you're attending a ceremony amid prime time winter. The rich wine-coloured tone, mesh material, long sleeves and leg slit, mean this dress is the ultimate example of mastering balance. 

10. Asymmetrical Bow-Neck Dress - £200, Mango

As we said, a black-tie wedding dress code doesn't = black dress. Don't be afraid to explore some bright and colourful options! This green dress from Mango is anything but dull, especially when paired with the beautiful canvas of high-shine satin. Alongside the ever-popular asymmetric neckline and accent bow detail on the shoulder, this dress is perfect for the stylish and modern wedding guest. 

11. Crepe Corset With Tulle Skirt Gown - £107.10, Coast 

If we had to go back to black, it would definitely be for this Coast wedding guest dress. Coast is known and loved for its consistent contribution to bridal fashion. Whether you're the bride, bridesmaid or wedding guest, you'll always be able to find something stunning at Coast. The combination of the corset top and flowy tulle skirt creates a beautiful shape, that promises to complement you perfectly on the big day. 

12. Carrie Bow Bandeau Maxi Slip Dress - £148, Anthropologie

In case you didn't already know, bows are a bit of a thing right now, and have been for the better part of 2024! So why not incorporate bows into your black-tie wedding guest look? With the statement bow sitting front and centre on this Anthropologie dress you won't be able to miss it. Plus with the addition of a gold, satin dress - what better way to exude luxury, ideal for a black tie wedding? 

13. Losanna Satin Halterneck Maxi Dress - £475, RIXO

If you have a slightly bigger budget to find the ultimate black-tie wedding guest dress, RIXO is another brand that knows a thing or two about bridal fashion. You'll be able to find designs that cater for the entire bridal party and guestlist, ensuring everyone in attendance looks and feels their best on the big day. We think red is a stunning colour for wedding guests, as long as it's approved by the couple, of course, and RIXO does it perfectly. The luxe-look satin, halter neckline and maxi-length make this the perfect pick for a black tie dress code.  

14. Strapless Stretch-Lamé Maxi Dress - £200, Norma Kamali

Not quite ready to give up on the sleek look attached to a black wedding guest dress? We can't blame you. This strapless stretch-lame maxi dress gives the high-fashion appearance of the wet-look, thanks to the material. So, while this dress is relatively simple in design and silhouette, you're still guaranteed to stand out from the crowd. 

15. Sequined Recycled-Tulle Maxi Dress - £270, Rotate Birger Christensen

For those attending a wedding during party season, sparkles are a non-negotiable. Anything that falls into the embellishments, glitter, sequins, or even metallics category is a must during this time of year. And with the additional formality attached to a black-tie wedding, it's an exciting time to dress to the nines. This pale green, high-neck maxi dress, adorned with sequins and tulle from Rotate Birger Christensen, available to shop at NET-A-PORTER is the perfect choice for those who want to shine. 

16. One-Shoulder Satin Maxi Slip Dress - £128, Anthropologie

To finish off our edit of the best black-tie dresses, you can't go wrong with a maxi satin slip dress. While we've all seen an abundance of satin slip dresses for wedding guest attire, there are easy ways to make the most of this classic style, while switching things up a bit. Why not opt for a hue to suit the season, like this wine-coloured shade or an alternative neckline, such as one-shoulder or asymmetric - your black-tie wedding guest dress doesn't necessarily need to be elaborate by nature. 

The Best Black Tie Dress Code Outfit Ideas for Men from Bow Ties & Beyond

So, now you’re sorted on the front of black-tie dresses, what about black-tie attire for men? While you may already have an image of sleek and sophisticated suits, complete with a bow tie and all the trimmings, we’re here to help you find the best styles. It’s no secret that tuxedos can be pricey, but the best thing about a suit for a black tie wedding is that classic looks tend to be re-wearable for multiple special occasions. Whether your budget is on the luxury or affordable side, we’ve pulled together two complete outfit ideas to give you a nudge in the right direction.

Want to see even more stylish suit ideas? Browse the best suits for grooms, groomsmen, the best man, and bridal suits. 

Luxury Black Tie Wedding Outfit for Men from Hawes & Curtis

Classic and timeless, we love this black tie dress code outfit idea for men from Hawes & Curtis. Shop the entire look, from the elegant dinner jacket to the 100% silk bow tie for the ultimate black tie look. While this tuxedo sits on the more luxurious side, it's a look you can wear time and time again for all your formal occasions. 

Affordable Black Tie Wedding Outfit for Men from M&S 

Looking for something traditional and polished but on the more affordable side? Look no further than M&S! For those who want the look of a classic traditional, but with a unique or standout feature, why not consider a velvet suit for a black tie dress code - especially for upcoming winter weddings? For black-tie weddings, most people in the room are wearing similar-looking tuxedos, let's be real. So, opting for a velvet jacket still sticks to the dress code, while providing your look with an extra-special edge. 

Black Tie Dress Code FAQs

What should men wear to a black-tie wedding? 

A tuxedo or dinner jacket, black bow tie, formal shoes, and a white dress shirt are the key components of a black-tie wedding look for men done right!

What should women wear to a black-tie wedding? 

A floor-length or midi formal gown is best, though a chic cocktail dress or elevated separates can work for some occasions when accessorised.

Can I wear colour to a black-tie wedding? 

Despite the name, black wedding guest dresses aren’t the only option for a black-tie wedding. Although colour is completely acceptable, it’s always best to keep it elegant and muted; black, navy, jewel tones or metallics are common.

What accessories should I wear to a black-tie wedding? 

For men, cufflinks and a pocket square; for women, statement jewellery or a clutch.

Can I wear a suit instead of a tuxedo to a black-tie wedding? 

In some cases and occasions, a dark suit is acceptable! But, a black tie dress code traditionally calls for a tux. When in doubt, always confirm with the couple beforehand!