Designer Ball Gowns

Ball gowns can work for a wide range of formal events, but the right style will depend on the venue and dress code.

For prom, bold colors, corset bodices, glittering details and layered skirts are all popular choices. Gala and black-tie events may call for a more refined gown in satin, velvet, tulle or an embellished fabric.

Military balls often favor floor-length formal gowns with a polished, elegant finish. For a black-tie wedding, choose a gown that fits the level of formality without appearing bridal.

Browse our prom dresses, gala dresses, black-tie dresses and military ball dresses for more occasion-specific options.

Our ball gown collection includes leading formalwear designers known for full skirts, detailed bodices and statement-making designs.

Sherri Hill gowns often feature corset bodices, layered skirts, bold color and sparkling embellishment. Jovani ball gowns range from sleek satin styles to dramatic gowns with beading, appliqués and fuller silhouettes.

You can also shop ball gowns from Andrea and Leo, Ladivine, Alyce Paris, Terani Couture, Mac Duggal, Nox Anabel, Rachel Allan, Ava Presley and other popular designers currently represented within the collection.

Use the designer filter to shop a favorite brand or compare different approaches to shape, fabric and detail.

Ball gowns are available across a broad range of prices.

Styles under $200 often include sale gowns, simpler tulle designs and dresses with lighter embellishment. Between $200 and $400, you will find a wide selection of corset ball gowns, satin dresses, layered skirts and embellished styles.

The $400 to $700 range includes more detailed construction, fuller skirts, premium fabrics and designs from established formalwear brands. Above $700, expect more intricate beadwork, structured bodices, couture-inspired finishes and statement silhouettes.

Use the price filter to narrow the collection based on your budget. The current assortment spans from lower-priced sale styles to designer gowns priced above $1,000, giving this section a strong basis in the actual inventory.

Designer formalwear sizing may differ from the size you normally wear in everyday clothing. Before ordering, compare your current bust, waist and hip measurements with the size chart provided for the individual designer.

Ball gowns often fit closely through the bodice and waist, so accurate measurements are especially important. A corset back may provide some flexibility, while a fully structured zip-back bodice may require a more exact fit.

Also consider the skirt length and volume. Try the dress with the shoes you plan to wear, and make sure you can sit, walk, turn and use stairs comfortably.

Order early enough to allow time for shipping, trying on the gown and completing alterations such as hemming, strap adjustments or bodice fitting.

Because a ball gown already creates a strong silhouette, accessories do not need to compete with the dress.

A clean satin gown can support more noticeable jewelry, while a heavily beaded or embellished style may look best with simpler accessories. Consider the neckline when choosing a necklace, and make sure your shoes work with the hem and are comfortable enough for the full event.

For cooler venues or more coverage, consider a wrap, shawl, cape or formal jacket that complements the gown without adding too much bulk.

NewYorkDress makes it easier to compare ball gowns from a wide selection of designers in one place.

Use detailed filters to narrow the collection by designer, size, color, neckline, sleeve length, fabric, embellishment and price. The current collection includes tulle, satin, embellished, corset, sleeved and plus-size options from a broad mix of formalwear brands.

Our stylists are available by live chat, phone or email to help with sizing, fit and style questions. Shoppers in the New York City area can also book an appointment for an in-person shopping experience.