The Dresses

BLACK TIE

  • Betsy & Adam

    Betsy & Adam One-Shoulder Crepe Scuba Trumpet Gown

    $249

    This dress is a bit like your tried and true shapewear—it works! And makes everything better. We've seen it on several body types and always marvel at its ability to enhance, slim, and make everyone feel fab. It's the stretchy material, the trumpet silhouette, the sleeves and tease of a bare shoulder. Comes in several colors. We're fans of the wait-that's-not-black! "pine." Sizes 2 to 16. (Also comes in Plus sizes.) Buy from Nordstrom. 

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  • Sachin & Babi

    Sachin & Babi Strapless Embellished Ikat Gown

    $950

    You want your ballgown moment, but don't want it to be too traditional. The "Giovanna" is your girl—classic A-line silhouette, reimagined with an all-over ikat print with hand-embellishment on the bodice. It says you are comfortable in any room. Sizes 0 to 14. Buy from Sachin & Babi. 

    Exclusive offer: use code MOTHEROF15 for 15% off

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  • Emily Shalant

    Emily Shalant Taffeta Ballgown Skirt

    $375

    Have you considered separates? This is the A-line ballgown skirt you've been waiting for, with a banded waist to give you definition, pleating that makes it fall so beautifully, and pockets! Soft, yet structured. Formal, yet you could put it on after the big event with a t-shirt and flip flops for the cool girl look that will make heads turn...again! Sizes 0-18. Comes in several colors. Known for her dressy separates, and beadwork, Emily Shalant offers tops to match like this v-neck elbow sleeve "tee." Buy from Emily Shalant.

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

  • Mac Duggal

    Mac Duggal Jersey Halter Gown with Tiered Feathers

    $1,198

    Not your basic black. The halter style gives it a modern flair; the tiers of ostrich feathers on the skirt really amp it up. Also, the tie in back adds another dash of glam. The material is high quality, but it is a soft jersey, which means there's no structure to hold you in place. Shapewear is your friend. Sizes 0 to 14. Buy from Mac Duggal. 

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  • Mac Duggal

    Mac Duggal Sequined Halter Neck Belted Gown

    $398

    If A-line ball gowns are not your jam, slip into this hot number, sure to make you feel all kinds of glam. Halter style, bare back (consider having cups sewn into the dress for some no-fuss structure). The all over sequin work is high quality, making it feel more expensive than it is. Sizes 0 to 18. Buy from Mac Duggal.

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

  • Rickie Freeman for Teri Jon

    Teri Jon Floral Jacquard Off The Shoulder Gown

    $880

    Classic, but never boring. The scattered floral jacquard adds dimension and interest to this off-the-shoulder gown. With its cinched waist and A-line skirt, the look is Infinitely flattering. The light blue is oh-so-fresh, but this style comes in other colors (where the pattern is more pronounced). Sizes 0 to 22. Buy from Teri Jon. 

    *Use code tjxmotherof for 10% off

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

  • Rickie Freeman for Teri Jon

    Teri Jon Stretch Asymmetrical Evening Dress

    $820

    Stretch is your friend in this elegant column gown. Yes, it's fitted. But the material is so supportive, you'll actually feel comfortable. The neckline is stunning—a modern twist on off shoulder, which gives you some welcome arm coverage too. The subtle ruching is spot on and the slight flare at the hem creates a beautiful silhouette head to toe. Sizes 0 to 22. Buy from Teri Jon. 

    *Use code tjxmotherof for 10% off

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

     

  • Rickie Freeman for Teri Jon

    Teri Jon Metallic Jacquard Twist Off Shoulder Gown

    $820

    A sophisticated show stopper that celebrates your curves. The gorgeous off-the-shoulder neckline creates a focal point (and a bit of arm coverage). The fabric, while not very stretchy, is regal in bronze. Sizes 0 to 22. Buy from Teri Jon. 

    *Use code tjxmotherof for 10% off

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

  • Xscape

    Xscape Off-The-Shoulder Floral Sleeve Gown

    $259

    We love the sleek simplicity of this trumpet style gown, which offers the perfect proportion of skin revealed/covered with that off-the-shoulder cut and sheer floral elbow length balloon sleeves, which offer just enough coverage, right where you want it. sizes 4 to 16. Buy from Macy's. See it on real MOB Leslie.

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  • Chiara Boni La Petite Robe

    Chiara Boni La Petite Robe Ruched Three Quarter Sleeve Gown

    $995

    Attention taller ladies—this black gown's for you. If you've got the stature to pull it off, it's an understated , with its surplice neckline, flattering ruching and chic three quarter length sleeves. You don't need embellishment to make a statement. Sizes 2 to 18. Buy from Saks Fifth Avenue. 

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  • Lauren Ralph Lauren

    Lauren Ralph Lauren Twist Front Cape Overlay Gown

    $295

    This overlay is everything: dramatic sleeve from the front; cape from the back. Add to that the twist front, plunging neckline and shimmery jersey fabric, and this dress is wedding-ready. 2 to 16. Buy from Macy's.

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  • Betsy & Adam

    Betsy & Adam Print Foil Metallic Balloon Sleeve Gown

    $318

    From the navy and gold metallic crinkle mesh fabric to the illusion sleeves and deep V—front and back—you're sure to feel fab in this festive, flattering gown. Sizes 4 to 16. Buy from Dillard's. 

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