Evening Dresses & Formal Gowns
Shop evening dresses and formal gowns for black-tie weddings, galas, formal dinners and other special occasions. Explore sleek fitted styles, flowing A-line gowns, dramatic ball gowns and embellished designs from leading eveningwear brands.
With options in a wide range of colors, silhouettes, sizes and price points, it is easy to find a dress that fits both the event and your personal style.
How to Choose an Evening Dress
Start by thinking about the overall look you want. Some shoppers prefer a clean, classic gown, while others want sparkle, dramatic structure or a more fashion-forward silhouette.
Find the Right Silhouette
An A-line dress is fitted through the bodice and gradually widens toward the hem, creating a classic shape with plenty of movement. Mermaid dresses follow the figure before flaring near the knee, while sheath and column gowns create a straighter, more streamlined look.
Ball gowns have a fuller skirt and are often a strong choice for highly formal occasions. Fit-and-flare dresses offer a similar shape with less volume, and empire-waist styles feature a raised waistline with fabric that flows away from the body.
Browse our A-line dresses, mermaid dresses and ball gowns to compare different shapes.
Consider the Fabric
Fabric can change both the appearance and feel of an evening gown. Satin has a smooth, polished finish that works well for formal weddings and black-tie events. Chiffon feels lighter and creates soft movement, making it a popular choice for spring and summer occasions.
Velvet adds richness and texture for fall and winter events, while jersey offers stretch and comfort. For a more noticeable look, consider sequins, beading, metallic finishes, feathers or floral appliqués.
Explore our satin dresses and sequin dresses for more options.
Choose a Color
Black is a timeless choice that works across seasons and dress codes. Navy, emerald, burgundy and other jewel tones offer a rich alternative, while red creates a bolder look. Champagne, silver, gold and soft neutral shades can feel lighter and more refined.
When shopping for a wedding, it is generally best to avoid white, ivory or any shade that may appear bridal unless the couple has requested it.
Browse our black designer dresses and red designer dresses, or use the color filters to narrow the collection.
Designer Evening Gowns
Our evening dress collection includes a wide range of formalwear designers, each with a different approach to fit, fabric and detail.
Jovani dresses are a strong fit for shoppers looking for structured silhouettes, glamorous embellishment and statement-making gowns. Mac Duggal dresses include everything from romantic floral styles to sequined and beaded evening gowns.
You can also shop dresses from Tarik Ediz, Portia and Scarlett, La Femme, MNM Couture, Andrea and Leo, Terani Couture, Faviana and other leading occasionwear designers. Use the designer filter to shop a favorite brand or compare different styles.
Evening Dresses by Budget
Designer evening dresses are available across a wide range of prices.
Dresses under $200 often include sale styles, simpler formal gowns and dresses with lighter embellishment. Between $200 and $400, you will find a broad selection of satin, chiffon, fitted and sequined styles.
The $400 to $600 range includes more detailed construction, premium fabrics and stronger embellishment. Above $600, expect more intricate designs, dramatic silhouettes and couture-inspired details.
Use the price filter to narrow the collection based on your budget.
Finding the Right Size and Fit
Designer dress sizing may be different from the size you normally wear in everyday clothing. Before ordering, compare your bust, waist and hip measurements with the size chart provided for the individual designer.
The fabric and structure of the dress also matter. A fitted gown with little or no stretch may require more precise measurements than a dress with adjustable straps, stretch fabric or a corset-style back.
It is also a good idea to order early enough to allow time for shipping, trying on the dress and making any necessary alterations.
Why Shop Evening Dresses at NewYorkDress?
NewYorkDress makes it easier to compare evening gowns from a wide range of designers in one place. Shop dresses in sizes 00–28 and use detailed filters to narrow the collection by designer, color, silhouette, neckline, sleeve length and price.
Our stylists are also available by live chat, phone or email to help with sizing, fit and style questions. Shoppers in the New York City area can book an appointment for an in-person shopping experience.
Evening Dress FAQs
What is the difference between an evening dress and an evening gown?
The terms are often used interchangeably, but an evening gown usually refers to a more formal, floor-length style. Evening dress is a broader term that may also include elegant midi, high-low and cocktail-length dresses.
Does an evening dress have to be floor-length?
No. Floor-length gowns are traditional for black-tie and highly formal events, but shorter formal dresses can work for cocktail attire, black-tie optional occasions and less traditional celebrations.
What should I wear to a black-tie wedding?
A floor-length evening gown is the most traditional choice. Satin, chiffon, velvet and crepe are all appropriate fabrics, and tasteful embellishment can also work well.
Can I wear an evening dress as a wedding guest?
Yes. Many evening dresses are appropriate for formal and black-tie weddings. Avoid white, ivory and overly bridal styles unless the couple has requested a specific color palette.
What are the most popular evening dress silhouettes?
A-line, mermaid, sheath, column, fit-and-flare and ball gown silhouettes are all popular. The best choice depends on the look you prefer, the event and how much structure or movement you want.
How should an evening gown fit?
The dress should feel secure through the bust and bodice without restricting movement. The waist should sit in the correct position, and the hem should work with the shoes you plan to wear.
How far in advance should I order an evening dress?
Ordering several weeks before the event gives you time for shipping, trying on the gown and making alterations. For an important event or a style with limited availability, ordering earlier is better.
Are designer dress sizes different from regular clothing sizes?
They can be. Formalwear sizing often varies by designer, so it is better to use your current measurements and the designer’s size chart rather than relying only on your usual clothing size.