When an invite comes in the mail and the fine print reads black tie, it always gives me pause. Truth be told, I often find dressing up a bit, well, boring. I can't say that I own many fancy dresses, so I wear one of the three simple, sweeping maxi dresses gathering dust in the back of my closet. Don't get me wrong, dressing up is fun, but sometimes the formality of a buttoned-up dress code up can keep me away from styles that fit my full-on personality. But with a goal set to embrace unique black-tie dresses (and prove that yes, they do exist), I decided to do a little online sleuthing (and by that I mean shopping).
After getting down to business, I rounded up my favorite unique black-tie dresses and decided to rank them all in order of, well, "uniqueness." From simple with a small twist to a major statement dress, I found a style that fits the bill. That way, no matter how bold you're willing to go (aka will grandparents be attending?), you'll have an option available.
Brock Collection
Donnie Dress
Showing up to the function in this lace gown will ensure you look like one of a kind. Sizing information is coming soon.
Pamella Roland
Signature Sequin Gown
Ombré sequins have never looked so chic. Available in sizes 10 to 24.
Mara Hoffman
One Shoulder Dress
Say hello to spring in this flowery formal dress. Available in sizes 14 to 18.
Alessandra Rich
Rose-Print Frill-Trimmed Silk Dress
Let your inner flower child come through in this dressy gown. Available in sizes IT36 to IT46.
Galvan London
Silk-Satin Maxi Dress
Elegant, simple, and chic. Available in sizes FR34 to FR44.
ASOS Curve
Embellished Sequin Kimono Midi Dress
Nothing says glamour like some sparkle. Available in sizes 12 to 24.
Michelle Mason
Ruffle Cami Dress
Shake things up with a pop of color. Available in sizes 0 to 8.
Racil
Geisha Wrap-Rront Ruffle-Trimmed Silk Dress
Ruffles add the bold factor to this evening dress. Available in sizes FR34 to FR42.
Reformation
Foster Dress
Perfect for dressing up or down, this sweet summer dress will become your new favorite. Available in sizes XS to 3X.
Adeam
Sleeve Tie Dress
Quite literally, this dress is suited for black tie. Available in sizes 2 to 10.
Saloni
Lily Floral-Rrint One-Shoulder Dress
Go for a statement with your print instead. Available in sizes UK6 to UK8.
Zara
Lace-Trimmed Dress
Make your ordinary slip dress a little something special by opting for a colorful print. Available in sizes S to L.
Who What Wear
Pick Up Sleeve Bardot Dress
This dress will become your new go-to. Available in sizes X to 4X.
Joseph
Fay Contrast-Panel Ruched Devoré Silk-Blend Dress
This ruched gown is perfect for a spring soirée. Available in sizes FR36 to FR42.
Diane von Furstenberg
Embellished Asymmetric V-Neck Silk Dress
For all brave souls, this daring black-tie dress will have the whole party talking.Available in sizes XS to S.
Jonathan Simkhai
Smocked Gingham Lace-Trimmed V-Neck Gown
When in doubt, put a bow on it. Available in sizes 0 to 10.
Vetements
Ruffled Printed Jersey Dress
Why not go all out with this bold number? Available in sizes XS to L. Now you're ready for your next black-tie event.