The Dresses

BLACK TIE

  • Simkhai

    Simkhai Off Shoulder Draped Satin Gown

    $1,350

    A sleek, sophisticated stunner. The neckline is so elegant; the draped satin gives the "Valencia" a modern feel. Dressy enough for a mother of, and equally appropriate for a gala or black tie event. Sizes 00 to 14. Buy from Simkhai.

    Mother Of independently curates the dresses we recommend. When users buy through our links, we may earn a commission. 

  • Badgley Mischka

    Badgley Mischka Strapless Origami Trumpet Gown

    $825

    Classic, with a glamorous twist—an origami-inspired structurally pleated neckline and bodice with defined waist and trumpet silhouette. Size 0 to 16. Buy from Bergdorf Goodman. 

    Mother Of independently curates the dresses we recommend. When users buy through our links, we may earn a commission. 

  • Kay Unger

    Kay Unger Short Sleeve Tie Belt Floral Skirt Gown

    $368

    Comfortable on top; beautiful on the bottom. A flattering silhouette that's ready to party. Sizes 0 to 16. Buy from Nordstrom.

    Mother Of independently curates the dresses we recommend. When users buy through our links, we may earn a commission. 

  • Teri Jon

    Teri Jon Mikado Ruched Off Shoulder Gown

    $1,030

    Modern and romantic. The straight strapless neckline is such a cool choice this season and we're swooning over this fuchsia floral watercolor print on this sleek column gown. Sizes 0 to 22. Buy from Teri Jon.

    Mother Of independently curates the dresses we recommend. When users buy through our links, we may earn a commission. 

  • Teri Jon

    Teri Jon Floral Velvet Jewel Applique Gown

    $980

    Floral on velvet makes this dress feel like a standout in a season where we can't get enough lush greens. The sleek silhouette adds sophistication, with a welcome big of ruching and flattering V-neck. Sizes 0 to 22. Buy from Teri Jon.

    Mother Of independently curates the dresses we recommend. When users buy through our links, we may earn a commission. 

  • Theia

    Theia Fan Bodice Gown

    $795

    The strapless fan bodice is definitely having a moment and this is such a ethereal version with its light layers of tulle and waist detail. The emerald green is a fresh choice. Sizes 0 to 16. Buy from Bloomingdale's. 

    Mother Of independently curates the dresses we recommend. When users buy through our links, we may earn a commission. 

  • Tadashi Shoji

    Tadashi Shoji Waterfall Drape Grown

    $438

    The dress for making a statement without a lot of fuss. Flattering drape, ruffle for flourish, ruched in all the right places. Comes in blue, green and olive as well. Sizes 2 to 18. Buy from Bloomingdale's. 

    Mother Of independently curates the dresses we recommend. When users buy through our links, we may earn a commission.

  • Emily Shalant

    Emily Shalant Sequined Lace Gown with Taffeta Skirt

    $795

    From the up and coming designer known for her dressy separates, a gorgeous column gown that brings it all together: the exquisitely adorned sleeveless top with embroidered and beaded lace; the silk taffeta column skirt with just enough movement to its sleek silhouette. And all created in the color of the season, a wam brown they call "suntan." Sizes 2 to 16. Buy from Emily Shalant. 

    Mother Of independently curates the products we recommend. When users buy through our links, we may earn a commission.

  • Betsy & Adam

    Betsy & Adam Asymmetric Sequin Bow Sleeveless Gown

    $279

    If you're going to wear black, give it some dimension. We love the shimmer on this column gown and the dramatic bow on the asymmetrical neckline, which feels like an updated twist on one shoulder. Sizes 2 to 16. Buy from Macy's.

    Mother Of independently curates the products we recommend. When users buy through our links, we may earn a commission.

  • Aqua

    Aqua Ruffled Neck Evening Gown

    $268

    Show off those shoulders with this gorgeous ruffled neckline. We love an unfussy flourish. And it's got a bit of stretch. Sizes 0 to 16. Buy from Bloomingdale's.

    Mother Of independently curates the products we recommend. When users buy through our links, we may earn a commission.

  • Sachin & Babi

    Sachin & Babi Strapless Crystal Encrusted Ballgown

    $1,395

    Frontrunner for our favorite strapless ballgown of the season. Classic yet modern. Tailored yet glamorous. The crystal and sequined encrusted illusion bodice is simply stunning and contrasting it with the navy Mikado silk skirt and light blue belt is brilliant. Sizes 0 to 14. Buy from Sachin & Babi. 

    Mother Of independently curates the dresses we recommend. When users buy through our links, we may earn a commission.

  • Donna Karan New York

    Donna Karan Metallic Print Strapless Gown

    $349

    Cool colors; lively pattern on a silhouette that is a perennial favorite for a reason. It's flattering! With just the right amount of ruching, ruffle, and flair. Sizes 2 to 16. Buy from Macy's. 

    Mother Of independently curates the dresses we recommend. When users buy through our links, we may earn a commission.