We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.
Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women’s.
1. A high-neck plaid winter formal dress featuring long sleeves and a midi-length for anyone who prefers to keep *all* their skin covered once those temps drop, but doesn't want to sacrifice on trendiness.
Promising review: "This dress is absolutely perfect. I needed something to wear to a business gala I was attending and decided to give this dress a try. It’s stretchy, breathable, and just the right length in the skirt and the sleeves. Don’t think about it, do it. I’m going to order this dress in a different color to wear to work." —Celina Ceballos
Get it from Amazon for $38.99+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and six colors).
Don't forget to add a chic black formal dress to your closet!
2. A velvet open-back formal dress you can wear to a holiday dinner with the fam or even just a work event — either way, you'll be thankful for those long sleeves and soft material during the colder months.
The dress is also machine-washable!
Promising review: "I never say this, but I LOVE how this dress makes me look and feel. It is so soft, well-made, and comfortable. It is sized perfectly and I feel like a model wearing it. Highly recommend!" —Heather C
Get it from Target for $40 (available in sizes XXS–4X and two colors).
Psst — you can see this style with the rest of our formal dresses.
3. A jersey winter formal dress featuring an adjustable waist tie you can customize to your liking AND a wrinkle-resistant material, so you can literally stuff it in your suitcase before going to your family's for the holidays.
Universal Standard is a woman-founded brand that creates inclusive designs in sizes 00 through 40. During the design process, each piece is fit on a model of every size so you'll get a more reliable, comfortable cut than garments created via a static formula. PS: Check out their recycling program to save serious $$$ on your next order!
Promising review: "I love the fit, color, and overall look of this dress. I paired it with some jewelry and wore it to a bridal luncheon for my daughter — received so many compliments. I plan on wearing it to work with a blazer, and it would be great with a jean jacket too!" —Anna F.
Get it from Universal Standard for $138 (available in sizes 00–40 and three colors).
You might as well add a white formal dress to your lineup too.
4. A stretchy winter formal dress requiring no waddling (it's THAT flowy) and since it's made with soft long sleeves, you won't need to be ~tied~ down to a shawl all night long.
Promising review: "Wore this dress to a wedding and I felt like I was dressed just right. It was just dressy enough for the occasion and I felt beautiful in it. The waist is gorgeous and the top fit without hanging open at all." —elizabeth gibson
Get it from Amazon for $34.99+ (available in sizes S–4XL, 22 colors, and three styles).
5. A mini wrap black formal dress simple yet fancy enough to go from work to your friend's dinner party — no outfit change necessary.
The tie is adjustable and can be fastened just how you like it. Make sure you line-dry this to keep it intact.
Promising review: "Such a cute dress! The pattern and feel is perfect. I would suggest if you have a larger chest area to order a size up just to have enough material to comfortably wrap around you." —anonymous
Get it from Old Navy for $49.99 (available in sizes XS–4X and tall and petite lengths).
6. A cocktail winter formal dress with ruching that can be personalized using the adjustable side tie. Plus, the breathable material means you can go as hard as you like on the dance floor — especially once the "Cha-Cha Slide" comes on.
Prime members: this one's a Prime try before you buy!
Promising review: "I wore this dress to a wedding and everyone loved it! It was comfortable and the color is beautiful! I’ll be buying several different colors! I definitely recommend!" —Jennifer
Get it from Amazon for $40.99 (available in sizes S–XL and 38 colors).
7. A tie-front winter formal dress oozing delicateness and whimsy with its balloon sleeves and arm ties that make it completely customizable. Additionally, the floral pattern and pockets (!!!) really make the whole look ~flourish~.
Promising review: "I bought this dress about a week ago and it fits like an absolute dream! This was the perfect dress to kick off the fall season! The color, pattern, fit, make, quality — everything was just perfect. Oh yeah, AND IT HAS POCKETS!!!! I mean c'mon, doesn’t get much better than that does it? Overall, I wish I could have this dress style in every pattern and color. Love it, love it, love it!" —VMorrr
Get it from Madewell for $138 (available in sizes XXS–XXL).
8. An embellished A-line winter formal dress, which is basically the perfect 'fit for a NYE party. I mean just look at it! The ruffles, flowy sleeves, AND embellishments just scream party-ready.
Make sure you only hand wash this material.
Promising review: "Such a gorgeous dress! The material is lightweight and of good quality, and the fit is also stunning. I really needed a long sleeve formal dress, so this is absolutely perfect, I would highly recommend! :)" —Anonymous
Get it from Asos for $125 (available in sizes 0–12).
9. A V-neck maxi winter formal dress made with long lace sleeves and a side tie, proving that even some of the simplest designs can make the biggest impact.
Promising review: "I needed a dress for a wedding and had trouble finding anything in the stores. While browsing, I came across this and went with it figuring if it did not work I could return it. It worked beautifully. The fit was perfect and it was the perfect length. While not too dressy, the lace sleeves added the ah-ha touch. I received many compliments, and best part is it can definitely be worn again. I would not hesitate to recommend this. Doesn't break the bank and looks and feels great!" —kim dilky
Get it from Amazon for $43.99 (available in sizes XS–3X and six colors).
10. A zebra-print formal dress because you want to make a statement and this lil' number will ensure you *don't* blend in.
Get it from Boohoo for $18 (originally $45; available in sizes 4–12).
Don't miss out on these fall wedding guest dresses either.
11. A flared off-the-shoulder winter formal dress using a stretchy and comfort material you'll want nothing more than to make your theater debut in as you attend The Nutcracker with your loved one.
This material should be hand washed only.
Promising review: "I needed a black dress for an evening affair! I didn’t want to spend a lot of money or have the dress looking cheap. This dress was perfect. The material was not sheer, it had just the right amount of stretch, and fit perfectly!" —Gale Blackshear
Get it from Amazon for $34.99+ (available in sizes S–XXL and seven colors).
12. An asymmetrical winter formal dress combining the flirtiness of a short cocktail dress with the elegance of a maxi dress using an attached side train, so you can *lit-erally* have the best of both worlds.
Make sure you only hand wash this and drip dry it out of direct sunlight.
Promising review: "I absolutely loved this dress for homecoming! It was supper comfortable and no one else had anything like this. You’ll definitely need heels for this dress so it doesn’t drag as much, but it’s so pretty!" —Karyss R.
Get it from Windsor for $59.90 (available in sizes XS–XL and three colors).
13. A belted sweater winter formal dress sporting a midi-length for anyone who's not quite ready to commit to a floor-length dress, but still wants some coverage to keep them warm — especially on a snowy night.
This dress is machine washable and made from a soft blend of cotton and polyester.
Promising reviews: "I love this dress and can’t wait to wear it again! The orange is so pretty, but still fit very nicely! I wore it to a chilly outdoor wedding ceremony and got lots of compliments! The reception was inside and I was not too hot with dancing and drinking." —Jasmine Brazil
Get it from Amazon for $36.98+ (available in sizes S–XXL and 12 colors). Also available in a shorter length.
14. A patent leather mini black formal dress you'll be pulling out for more than just work events. It's so ~snazzy~ that it would totally earn a "That's hot" from Paris Hilton herself.
You should spot clean this or hand wash it with like colors. Make sure you don't dry clean it or twist/wring it out. Lay the garment down flat to dry.
Promising review: "SEXY!!! I already own this in the teal leather, so I knew it would be fabulous — size up though, it runs a bit small." —Anonymous
Get it from Eloquii for $129.95 (available in sizes 14–28).
15. A one-shoulder winter formal dress made from a fuzzy velvet fabric that's SO snuggly, you'll want to wrap yourself up in it even after you've come home from that winter gala.
Promising review: "I wore this dress as part of a bridal party and it was absolutely stunning! It can definitely be worn again and I do not regret this purchase one bit." —Michele C.
Get it from Baltic Born for $76 (available in sizes XS–XL and 14 colors).
16. A satin ruffle winter formal dress you can't help but think belongs in a rom-com — because it's that dreamy. Once you slip it on and tie it closed with the adjustable waist belt you'll most definitely be exuding main character energy.
Victoria Angel is a small shop on Etsy that specializes in handcrafted formal wear.
Promising review: "Not going to lie, I had so much doubt in this dress, but let me tell y’all, it’s such a beautiful dress. It looks exactly how it looks on the picture and fits perfect! It was 100% worth buying! The dress feels soo smooth and amazing just a really pretty dress! ❤️" —Jodie
Get it from Victoria Angel on Etsy for $98+ (available in sizes S–XXXL).
17. A cable sweater winter formal dress so you can *finally* live out your dream of wearing a fluffy cozy sweater to your annual family photos.
This must be hand washed only.
Promising review: "Wow, do I love this sweater dress!!! It is so toasty warm and so stylish! I have it now in the blue and the gray. It comes all the way to my knee and I'm 5'9". It fits great and keeps its shape all day long — I never have to pull on it or anything. I really wish they'd come out with more colors!" —Lisa M
Get it from Amazon for $32.99+ (available in sizes 4–10 and in four colors).
18. A wrap-front sweater dress from Abercrombie that will literally give you chills — but not from being cold. Instead, you'll just be mesmerized by how cozy it feels against your skin — you may even just ditch your sweats for this... maybe.
This material should be machine washed in cold water, then reshaped and laid flat to dry.
Promising review: "Love love love! The wrap front is so nice and the square neckline doesn’t show your bra/bra straps. It’s a thinner sweater dress, perfect for fall weather." —Paula C
Get it from Abercrombie for $60 (originally $80; available in sizes XXS–XL, three colors, and two lengths).
19. A starry velvet winter formal dress friends will be completely starstruck over once they get a peek of you in this thang. And it's *so* warm, you won't even need a cardigan to layer over it.
Promising review: "I absolutely love this dress so much. I went down a size from medium to small, and honestly, it makes such a difference. I was worried that I would look a little odd, but I was absolutely comfortable. I wore this for a date and I felt dressed up but still comfortable. The gold absolutely shines and the velvet is so soft and comfortable. No itchiness at all. I received so many compliments." —Alison ♡
Get it from Amazon for $40.99 (available in sizes XS–XL aand six colors).
20. A puff-sleeve winter formal dress featuring a whimsical square neckline and a smooth silk material. You'll be finding any excuse to throw a party just to show off this lil' piece.
Whimsy + Row is a woman-owned small shop that creates fashionable clothing through sustainable practices. Since it's made with 100% raw silk, this dress should be dry cleaned.
Promising review: "I love the drape of the dress. I also like that it doesn’t wrinkle easily. The texture of the fabric is unique and nothing like I’d seen before. I kept getting compliments that I looked so elegant! For me, the sleeves had a tendency to start to fall off my shoulder, but it wasn’t that noticeable and would stay up if I fixed them." —Sarah Larson
Get it from Whimsy + Row for $42 (originally $198; available in sizes XS–XL).
21. A printed winter formal dress anyone looking to really *pop* will quickly add to their cart. Plus, peep that pleated skirt that is just whispering "Come on, give me a twirl."
This should only be hand washed.
Promising review: "I couldn't believe how cute this dress was in person given the price! I am usually closer to a size 4 in American sizing, but opted for a size 6 in this dress and I am glad I did. It JUST fits, so keep that in mind when ordering. I HIGHLY recommend this dress. I can't wait to wear it to a wedding and can easily wear it to work in the future." —Jennifer O'Connor
Get it from Amazon for $29.98+ (available in sizes 2–14 and 44 styles).
22. A lace-up sequin winter formal dress exuding *so* much glamor, your other party dresses will be rolling their eyes in jealousy as you pick it AGAIN for your next fancy event.
Make sure this gets hand washed and line dried for the best care.
Promising review: "This dress is simply gorgeous. I will be wearing it to a black tie wedding and can't wait to see the finished look, but it really is just perfect. It looks true to the pictures, beautiful color (green in my case). The ties make it so that you can really get the perfect fit for your body. It's so glamorous. Highly recommend!" —Megan L.
Get it from Lulus for $94 (available in sizes XXS–XL and two colors)
23. A tulip-wrap formal dress comfortable enough for wearing while you drive to that wedding an hour away, so you can leave the change of clothes at home.
Prime members: this one's a Prime try before you buy! The rayon and spandex material should be hand washed only.
Promising review: "This dress is really soft and comfortable — plus, it looks amazing. I love the wrap style as it fits much better and can adjust with you. I'm 5'7" and this went to the ground on me. With a slight heel it wouldn't have hit the floor. I appreciate that the sleeves are long enough and not super tight in the upper arm. Sometimes the upper arm can be too tight and it looks not great, but this was much better sized." —Whitney Hundertmark Lenz
Get it from Amazon for $39.95 (available in sizes S–L and 20 styles).
24. A cutout maxi winter formal dress because your shoes deserve some love too, and thanks to that sultry side leg slit, you won't have to hear your black heels begging for some limelight.
Beginning Boutique is a woman-owned small shop that provides stylish 'fits for any occasion.
Promising review: "This dress is so pretty, the material is very thick and quality feels amazing. Got so many compliments wearing it!" —Emma H.
"Nice dress on and the material is very stretchy, so you could possibly size down for a tighter fit." —delaynee m.
Get it from Beginning Boutique for $84.99 (available in sizes 2–8 and two colors).
25. A sheen winter formal dress just begging you to hit the dance floor, so you can let the inner disco star in you shimmer and shine.
Smart Glamour is a woman-owned small shop that creates trendy pieces of clothing that inspire confidence and empowerment. Make sure to fill out the measurement boxes before adding it to your cart!
Get it from Smart Glamour for $65 (available in sizes XXS–15X and four colors).
26. A mock neck winter formal dress fans of mini dresses will be flocking to as it features a flirty quarter-sleeve and back cutout. You'll be throwing your hands up in the air just to show off how fun and sultry it looks.
This should be hand washed for the best care.
Promising reviewer: "This is such a pretty dress. The colors are vibrant under the velvet, but I echo others' recommendation to size up. I normally am a 12P and found it to be a bit snug. I personally do not find it short, but I am 5', so I can see where it would be hard for someone who is taller." —msmith113
Get it from Anthropologie for $180 (available in sizes 00–26 and two colors).
27. A Rent The Runway formal dress that's a total must for any fall and winter weddings you're attending. The best part? Besides being absolutely jaw-dropping, it won't take up space in your closet since you can return it after your event.
Members can rent up to four pieces of clothing at a time for up to eight days! Non-members can still rent pieces (just for a higher cost) — and if you fall in love with the piece, you can always purchase it at full price.
Promising review: "This dress was absolutely fabulous! Beautiful and comfortable. I wore it to a destination wedding in October." —Kim
Get it from Rent The Runway for $70 as a non-member (available in sizes XS–XL) — or try it (along with three other items) for $69/month as a member.
28. A ruched black formal mini dress dapper enough to go from the bridal shower to that surprise bachelorette party you've been planning for months.
This dress should be hand washed only.
Promising review: "This dress was bought last-minute and I was hoping it would look good. I was very much PLEASED by the way it fit!!! It’s a very nice material, looks fancy, and is wedding guest appropriate! I am a bit short, so I was hoping it wouldn’t fit too long and the length was great! It’s warm, so good for outside venues during late summer/fall events. It runs just a tiny bit big, but go with your true size in case you’re going to be dancing so the length will be good on you. Just keep in mind this dress does stain, so careful when you throw it in the wash!! Other than that this is a 10/10!!!" —Daniela Lara
Get it from Amazon for $44.99 (available in sizes XS–XL and six colors).
29. A luxe long-sleeve velvet winter formal dress for anyone looking to serve 10s across the board. It offers coverage in the most elegant way possible — so you can walk from the car to the rehearsal dinner *without* picking up frostbite along the way.
Promising review: "I wore this dress at a New England fall seaside wedding. I danced the night away feeling elegant, warm, and comfortable." —juanita
"This dress does have some weight to it, which makes it fit better. I love that I can pack it in a suitcase and it doesn't wrinkle. It also has pockets, which I love and sits at the right place on your waist. It is a basic dress, which is great as you can dress it up with jewelry. I am 5'7" and the length was perfect." —Maggie
Get it from Amazon for $49.99 (available in sizes XS–XXL and five colors — not all colors available in all sizes).
You also may want to keep these dresses on hand for the next wedding you attend.
30. A mesh-sleeve body con dress allowing you to stay covered, while still showing off a little skin since the sleeves are patterned with flowers that'll really make the whole look ~bloom~ with beauty.
Promising review: "This has multiple wears from church to special occasions. If you switch up the belt, you will be surprised at the beauty. I got a lot of compliments on a rhinestone belt I added, which brought the dress alive at a wedding. Love It." —PL
Get it from Amazon for $36.99+ (available in standard sizes standard sizes XS–XXL and 13 colors/styles). Also available in plus sizes (L–4XL) for $29.99+.
Want more budget-friendly options? Here are some dresses under $30 to check out.
31. A ruffle-neck black formal dress for anyone who appreciates a 19th-century look with a modern twist. Don't worry, the cotton material and inner slip will prevent any uncomfortable itching during those award ceremony speeches.
Promising review: "Amazing dress! The fabric is great quality and it fits very well. I bought both colors to pick one for a gala I am attending, but decided to keep both dresses because they're that great. I highly recommend this dress! Trust me, you won’t regret buying it." —Fable
Get it from J. Crew for $79.50 (originally $178; available in sizes XXS–3X and two colors).
32. An Express black formal dress with a polished and sleek silhouette *begging* to be paired with your fave statement earrings and dainty necklaces.
Promising review: "Gorgeous color and fabric — I bought it in all three colors. High quality stretch and the length is perfect and is not restrictive while walking. Definitely a closet staple! I will wear this for years to come. It also can transition well between seasons, which is a plus!" —NYqt
Get it from Express for $61.60 (originally $88; available in sizes XS–XL and three colors).
33. A winter sweater formal dress proving that style and comfort can go hand-in-hand, so you can attend that winter gala without worrying about matching a cardigan to your look.
Get ready for all eyes to be on you...
The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.