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No need to reconsider your RSVP with these options.
By Talia Abbas
A black-tie wedding is the perfect excuse to go all out with your look, but when the happy couple wants their guests to show up in formal wedding guest dresses and tuxedos, well, you probably think you have to drop some serious coin if you want to look the part.
Luckily, you don’t have to go too far to find options that read elegant and traditional—but ring in at far less intimidating price points. Designers and labels across the board are rethinking formalwear with chic yet budget-friendly pieces that are perfect for nailing the formal dress code—and making a serious entrance at every event you have. (Apologies in advance to the bride.)
It took us a minute, but we found over a dozen of these gems and curated them all in a mini shopping guide for you to piece together your full look. Best part? Save for one ethereal halter we couldn’t not include, they all come in at less than $500, which is no small feat considering just how on-point they are. Ahead, 17 formal wedding guest dresses to RSVP yes to, including the dreamiest floral print gown and a twinkling bodycon mini that looks like the real-life version of Instagram’s glitter filter.
All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
1/17
Staud Wells Cotton-Poplin Maxi Dress
Let’s take a moment to appreciate this floor-length gown that’s perfect for fall and winter weddings. The minimalist A-line silhouette is a mainstay in the Staud collection—and in classic black, its versatility knows no bounds. Add a chunky chain to play up the square neckline, or revel in its simplicity with a statement cuff and tiny bag.
2/17
Zara Satin-Effect Buttoned Dress
Next up is this wispy number that looks way more expensive than the price tag would have you believe, thanks to the minimal cut and airy fit. (Those tiny side buttons are everything!)
3/17
Eloquii Twist Front-Cutout Gown
The only thing more irresistible than the cheese station will be you in this pale yellow dress, featuring a keyhole detail that’s *chef’s kiss* good.
4/17
Self-Portrait Tiered Sequinned-Chiffon Midi Dress
Pixie fairy meets goth princess in this in tea-length beauty, complete with lace, chiffon ruffles, and fluttering short sleeves.
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5/17
LoveShackFancy Donovan Dress
Loveshackfancy has some of the best floral prints, and this romantic long dress is perfect for twirling around the dance floor in a chandelier-filled hall.
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6/17
& Other Stories Plissé-Pleated Maxi Dress
Whether the wedding backdrop is an oak-filled garden or Gatsby-esque ballroom, this lilac midi has endless styling potential. Pair with your heels of choice for the dinner portion, then swap for festive flats after hours.
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7/17
Collective the Label Bardot Mini Dress
When you can’t decide between a long-sleeve or strapless co*cktail dress, opt for this sky blue mini that’s the best of both worlds.
8/17
L’Agence Sachi Printed Crepe Maxi Dress
A beach wedding almost always calls for semi-formal attire, and this timeless sundress checks both boxes by way of an adorable seashell print that reads both sophisticated and low-key.
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9/17
Amanda Uprichard x Revolve Samba Gown
You can keep your glam and accessories to a minimum here. Between the thigh slit, the high-neck cowl, and the subtle hip draping, this bubblegum pink gown is doing all the work.
10/17
For Love & Lemons x Revolve Bustier Lace Dress
Lace! Tulle! A high-low hem! So much is going on here, in the best way possible.
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11/17
Reformation Marguerite Dress
Listen carefully…to the sound of necks snapping as you make your way to the buffet in this leopard stunner.
12/17
Rat & Boa Belina Open-Back Dress
This beaded and sequined number isn’t just a party dress—it’s a whole personality. Do with that what you will.
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13/17
Reformation Alfred Jumpsuit
A wide-leg jumpsuit is definitely a bold choice amid a sea of long wrap dresses and stately ball gowns, though this Reformation number is one we can all get behind.
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14/17
Mango Flowy Ruffled Dress
Get your daily dose of vitamin C in with this sleeveless citrus dress, guaranteed to add zest to the evening’s festivities.
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15/17
Farm Rio One-Shoulder Black Dress
The only thing we love more than a cold-shoulder moment is when it’s served with a healthy side of midriff.
16/17
Anthropologie Maeve Ruched Midi Dress
If your personal style leans casual, try this ruched polka-dot number, which comes in straight, petite, and plus sizes. With the right accessories, you can easily dress it up depending on where the wedding invitation takes you.
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17/17
Cult Gaia Jaslene Dress
Feather sleeves have entered the chat. We’ll see ourselves out now.
Topicsshoppingweddingswedding guest dressesblack tie dressesbridesmaid dresseswedding guest attirebridesmaid
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