13 Chic Black Dresses You Can Wear as a Wedding Guest

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Editor’s note: Article updated on April 28, 2023.

We’re pretty much at the start of wedding season, and our calendars are filling up fast. The last thing we want to be worrying about is what we’re going to wear, and if you have no clue where to start, fall back on the most trusted option in existence — a killer black dress!

No matter what the theme or location, a black dress will be a safe bet for more reasons than one. It’s a timeless hue, and it’s a strong color if there will be photos taken. Its flattering effect can’t be ignored!

But then there’s the next question: Which type of black dress should you buy? There are a few different options available. If the vibe of the wedding is more low-key, you can opt for a shorter dress or a frock with a simpler silhouette. That said, some basic dresses can actually look chic and elevated with the right styling — so it completely depends on how you want to accessorize it. If the dress code is fancier, we think a full-length style is definitely the way to go!

Black dresses also have another major advantage: You can wear them over and over again! You don’t want to spend serious money on a dress that’s going to end up collecting dust after a wedding, but if you buy a black one, you may find yourself reaching for it more often. With that in mind, we picked out a number of black dresses that will fit the aesthetic for any wedding event you’re shopping for. One of these styles could become your new go-to LBD for upcoming summer, fall and winter events!

Shelly High Slit Glitter Knit Formal Dress

Cowl neck tops and dresses are some of our favorite styles to shop for, and this gown takes the look to the ultimate elegant level. While it’s still comfy and easy to rock, the floor length and dramatic high slit make it fit for a formal affair. Plus, the fabric has a dusting of subtle glitter so you can sparkle!

Pros 

• Affordable
• Comfy, stretchy knit fabric

Cons 

• Non-adjustable straps

Available at: Windsor

Kimberly Formal Flocked Mesh A-Line Dress

Lace, lace and more face! If you’re a fan of this dainty and romantic material, this is the frock to rock. The floor-length gown is lined with black satin and has the most beautiful floral face overlay on top that’s flowy and fabulous. The dress also gets bonus points for the slits on the front of the lining which show off your legs!

Pros 

• Flattering empire waist
• Comfortable fit
• Criss-cross adjustable straps in the back

Cons 

• Limited sizing

Available at: Windsor

Diane Crepe Bow Strap Short Dress

If you want to go for a short and sweet garment but still look glamorous and occasion-appropriate, this is the one! It’s very simple, but the one-shoulder design and oversized bow accent make it feel truly special.

Pros 

• Super affordable
• Stretchy crepe fabric
• Figure-hugging fit

Cons 

• May be a bit too short for some

Available at: Windsor

LYANER Women’s Bodycon Midi Dress

This dress takes the concept of a classic LBD and puts a more unique spin on the look! We adore the asymmetrical hem as well as the neckline, plus the more fitted design is incredibly figure-flattering. Shoppers say they were super impressed with how incredible they look in the dress — not to mention how comfortable it is!

Pros 

• Affordable
• Flattering fit
• Tons of color options

Cons 

• Material may be a bit sheer

Available at: Amazon

The Drop Women’s Ana Silky V-Neck Midi Slip Dress

Slip dresses like this one will always look great, as they give you a ton of styling room to work with. You can put your own spin on this dress by adding different types of accessories so you can wear it in various ways. If you want a versatile dress, this is the one to buy!

Pros 

• Simple style
• Super versatile
• Tons of positive reviews

Cons 

• Slightly higher price tag

Available at: Amazon

ZAFUL Women’s Satin Cowl Neck Mini Dress

This divine little dress was made for fun! We like the way the material drapes on the body and shows plenty of leg with the added side slits. If you’re looking for a dress you can seriously party in, this beauty has your name written all over it!

Pros 

• Super affordable
• Tons of color options
• Flattering fit

Cons

• May run a bit small

Available at: Amazon

Cosonsen Deep V-Neck Long Sleeve Ruffle Swing Dress

If you want to pick up a dress with more of a boho feel, this may be the winner! The ruffle hem provides a much more carefree vibe that feels fabulously flowy. This dress may be a bit too casual for a wedding, but when you buy it in black, it immediately feels dressier and more wedding-appropriate!

Pros 

• Comfortable fit
• Affordable
• Top-rated Amazon style

Cons 

• Sizing is a bit tricky
• May be too short for some

Available at: Amazon

La Femme Strapless Ruched Soft Jersey Gown

The sleek design of this full-length gown is ideal if you’re a fan of the minimalist look! The high-low style on the front of the dress can actually make you look taller and elongate the body, which can complement so many figures.

Pros 

• Incredibly versatile style
• Figure-flattering

Cons 

• Higher-end price tag
• Limited sizing

Available at: Nordstrom

Dress the Population Nicole Sweetheart Neck Cocktail Dress

Timeless is the name of the game with this adorable cocktail dress! Shoppers can’t stop raving about how confident they feel in this dress — they adore the “classy” feel it exudes. You’ll be able to wear it to so many special events that aren’t just wedding-related!

Pros 

• Plenty of positive reviews
• Comfortable fit
• Classic silhouette

Cons 

• Limited sizing
• Higher price tag

Available at: Nordstrom

French Connection Whisper Ruffle Minidress

Shorter dresses may look like they’re better suited for the club than a formal wedding, but not this one! The added ruffles on the sleeves and the structured silhouette give this LBD a more refined look that’s dreamy for any type of wedding.

Pros 

• High-quality materials
• Tons of glowing reviews

Cons 

• Slightly pricy
• Shoppers say the dress runs very small

Available at: Nordstrom

Ever-Pretty Women’s Off Shoulder Dress

This is the best dress to buy if you’re attending a wedding with a black tie dress code. It has a more dramatic feel, but it’s still understated enough to not upstage the bride on her big day!

Pros 

• Comfortable fit
• Affordable
• Positive customer feedback

Cons 

• May be too long for some

Available at: Amazon

Sukleet Women’s V-Neck Satin Dress

How could anyone not fall in love with this fierce mini dress? We love the silhouette and think it would be impossible for anyone to look bad in it. Shoppers say the quality that you get for the price is truly unmatched!

Pros 

• Currently on sale
• Impressively expansive sizing available
• Versatile design

Cons 

• Finding the right size may be tricky

Available at: Amazon

Floerns Women’s Plunging Neck Spaghetti Strap Maxi Dress

Reviewers claim this full-length maxi dress totally exceeded their expectations! It has the unique ability to feel both covered-up while showing off some extra skin thanks to its sheer elements. Wearing this dress is certainly going to make a major statement!

Pros 

• Super affordable
• Tons of positive customer feedback
• Comfortable fit

Cons 

• May run small

Available at: Amazon

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