Wedding Guest Guide: What to Wear When the Invite Says Black Tie Optional

As a guest at a wedding, you want to dress your best to celebrate the day, but you also want to choose an outfit that is appropriate for the occasion. Some weddings are casual while others are more formal, and there’s nothing worse than showing up to an event feeling either over- or underdressed.

So, what are you supposed to do when you get invited to a “Black Tie Optional” wedding? Don’t stress! We’ve got the inside scoop on this dress code, and suggestions for gorgeous dresses to wear to the next black-tie optional wedding on your calendar.

What Does Black Tie Optional Mean?

If “black-tie optional” doesn’t immediately give you outfit inspiration, don’t worry; it’s way less complicated than it sounds. When a couple chooses a black-tie optional wedding, it usually means they and their wedding party will be wearing black-tie attire: tuxedos and evening gowns.

The “optional” part is for the benefit of the guests, who can choose to dress in black tie attire or wear something slightly less formal, like a regular suit or a cocktail dress. Because the wedding party will be extra formal, it’s polite to dress as formally as you feel comfortable doing at a black-tie optional event.

Styling Black Tie Optional Wedding Guest Dresses

The black-tie optional wedding dress code for women is formal, but it doesn’t have to feel fussy! The secret is finding trendy ways to style a black tie wedding guest dress! The right accessories or aesthetic can refresh the dress code and make it feel more personalized. Here are some helpful hints for mastering this formal dress code!

• Wear a full-length or mid-length dress. Short dresses won’t match the formal vibes.
• When in doubt, wear dark or rich hues like black, gray, navy, or jewel tones.
• If you’re unsure, stick to solid colors, since patterns can sometimes feel too casual–although elevated florals are a great black tie choice, since the prints can be both dramatic and elegant.
• Elegant jewelry is great, but avoid oversized, flashy pieces—too much can distract from the formal dress code. Try wearing mostly delicate jewelry with one strong accessory, like oversized earrings or a statement cuff bracelet. This works especially well with simple gowns because the accessories make the outfit feel intentional.
• Aim for formal footwear. Think strappy heels or fancy closed-toe pumps.
• Draped gowns feel formal without looking stiff. Look for asymmetrical necklines, gathered waists, scarf details, or one-shoulder styles.
• To keep a monochrome dress from feeling plain, choose one standout detail: a dramatic neckline, opera gloves, a low back, a rosette, a structured bodice, or a full skirt.
• For black tie, styling matters almost as much as the dress. A sleek bun, soft Hollywood waves, a polished blowout, or a deep side part can make the same gown look far more formal. For makeup, a red lip, smoky eye, glowing skin, or sharp liner all work. As with your jewelry, pick one focal point.

Black Tie Optional Dresses

Need a gorgeous dress to wear to a black-tie optional wedding this year? Check out these stunning black-tie optional dresses that will have you feeling like an A-lister.

Black Floral Applique Dress

Mauve Floral Trumpet Skirt Dress

Sleek satin gives this dress a luxurious shine, and the body‑skimming shape with a flared skirt brings just the right amount of drama. The strapless neckline shows off your shoulders beautifully and works whether you’re going for an undone, romantic wave or a chic, swept‑up moment. Finish it with metallic or satin shoes to keep the whole look polished and intentional.

Emerald Green Plisse Dress

Light Blue Jacquard Bustier Dress

Can you wear pastels to a black-tie optional wedding? Absolutely! An elegant gown in light blue jacquard is a great choice for a spring or summer black tie wedding. The bustier bodice is both comfy and supportive, and the sexy slit makes the skirt perfect for dancing.

Black Drop-Waist Maxi Dress

Black‑tie optional is all about quiet intention, and this gown gets the memo. The asymmetrical drop waist is one of those subtle, thoughtful details that instantly lengthens your torso and gives the dress a refined, architectural elegance. Keep the look balanced with dainty black shoes and a statement necklace or clutch that adds drama without overwhelming the clean lines.

Blue Rhinestone Cowl-Back Dress

When more is the mood, this is the sparkly showstopper your black‑tie wedding guest look deserves. Hundreds of rhinestones catch the light with every step, giving you that high‑impact shimmer, while the elegant cowl back creates the illusion of a draped accessory—no extra styling required. The slinky mesh fabric hugs and drapes in all the right places, delivering a dramatic, unforgettable moment. Finish it with metallic accents to lean all the way into the glamour.

Mauve Floral Jacquard Dress

Be red‑carpet ready in this stunning bubble‑hem moment. The bodice cutouts add a fresh, modern twist to the classic column shape, while the playful bubble hem keeps things flirty without dipping into casual territory. Lean into the softer side of formal dressing with floral‑inspired jewelry and strappy heels for a lighter, fashion‑forward take on the black‑tie dress code.

Light Yellow Chiffon Maxi Dress + Scarf

Fabric choice matters for a black‑tie dress, and this airy chiffon gown strikes that perfect balance between elevated and effortless. It’s as comfortable as it is beautiful, and the matching scarf takes all the guesswork out of accessorizing. Slip into strappy sandals  or dainty heels and you’re instantly event‑ready.

Pink Pleated Drop-Waist Dress

From the precise pleats to the elegant sculpted waist, this dress is all about those delicate, high‑impact details. The plunging neckline and flowing skirt blend classic princess energy with a touch of modern allure. Soft pink pairs beautifully with both  gold and silver jewelry, and coordinating your jewelry choice with your shoes is an easy way to add a polished, effortless flourish.

Light Blue Jacquard Midi Dress

Black‑tie optional usually leans formal, but a well‑chosen midi dress can absolutely rise to the occasion. This floral midi does it flawlessly thanks to its thoughtful construction and ornate, elevated fabric. The shimmering floral jacquard instantly gives the shorter hemline a richer, more formal presence, while the structured bodice and hip‑hugging skirt create that polished, statuesque feel that fits right in at a black‑tie wedding. Finish the look with elegant heels or a refined clutch to keep the elevated mood going.

Chartreuse Asymmetrical Floral Maxi Dress

An asymmetrical neckline is basically a cheat code for black‑tie weddings. The draped cowl naturally draws the eye, while the one‑shoulder silhouette keeps everything sleek instead of bulky. This gown’s length and graceful lines shine with dainty accessories that complement the shape without competing with it.

Sage Floral Burnout Ruffled Dress

This shimmering pale green gown has a soft flare to the hem and long vertical ruffles that ripple as you move, creating the kind of subtle vibe that’s understated enough to stay sophisticated, but dramatic enough for black tie. The open back looks fantastic with an updo or wearing your hair down, and the high boat neckline means that chunky bangles or statement earrings are great options.

Brown Ruffled Polka Dot Dress

When you want a dress that truly does the most, this bold brown polka‑dot gown is it. The ruffled bodice and skirt echo each other in the chicest way, while the dainty halter straps flow into a lace‑up back that feels equal parts flirty and refined. Add in a thigh‑high slit and you’ve got a look that’s ready for the ceremony, the reception, and whatever after‑party magic the night brings. Finish it with elegant heels and a sleek clutch to keep the momentum going.

Plum Pleated Midi Dress

You’ll feel absolutely regal in this deep plum one‑shoulder gown. The horizontal ruching through the bodice keeps everything supported and comfortable, while the vertical pleating in the skirt gives it that gorgeous swing as you mix and mingle. The rich plum tone pairs beautifully with metallic accessories—try coordinating a metallic clutch with your shoes for a polished, party‑ready finish.

Rust Jacquard Midi Dress

When you walk into the room in this rust‑colored jacquard midi, all eyes go straight to you. The fabric’s rich, dimensional texture catches the light beautifully, giving the dress a depth and warmth that feels instantly elevated. Style it with a sleek bun for a ballet‑inspired moment or soft waves for a more romantic vibe—either way, the look is unforgettable.

Where To Shop for Black Tie Dresses Online

Black‑tie optional invites always come with a little sartorial pressure, and finding the dress can feel like a whole journey. In‑store selections are often hit or miss, and we’ve all witnessed the #dressfails that certain online shops can lead to. That’s why turning to a boutique‑style site (think Lulus) is such a game changer. You get pieces that actually look like the photos, fit the way they’re supposed to, and come backed by real‑person reviews. So if you’re wondering where to find high‑quality dresses for women online, consider this your sign—you’re already in the right place.

Did this black tie optional attire guide help you? Show us your wedding guest looks on Instagram @lulus using #lovelulus–and head to our Wedding Guest Shop for more options!

This post was originally published in May 2022 and has been updated with new content.