We love the easy elegance of this one shoulder style. The side bow gives it a flattering angle and that leg slit adds some oomph without going too J. Lo to feel appropriate for the day. Sizes 0-18. buy from Adrianna Papell.

Not into bare shoulders? Here's the obvious alternative. Classic t-shirt styling on top, with a surprise scooped out (but not too deep) back. Glamour all over. You can't miss with this timeless style. Note: they say it runs a bit small even with stretch to the material, so don't fixate on the numbers, and just size up for flattering fit. Sizes 0-16. Buy from Bloomingdale's.

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The of-the-moment color in a flirty-yet-tasteful style. The pleated satin fabric gives it dimension; the cummerbund adds definition. We say: winner! Sizes 2 to 12. Buy from Mac Duggal.

They had us at scuba crepe. The "Madeline" dress is sleek without being too snug for a flexible fit that flatters many shapes. The drop shoulder gives it an edge. And navy is such a great wedding choice—here's proof! Sizes 4 to 18. Buy from Betsy & Adam.

Remember when Sharon Stone showed up on the red carpet in a Gap shirt (we're dating ourselves, but then, that's why we're all here)? Well, this is that spirit in dress form. Your most comfortable boat neck three quarters sleeve shirt on top; ballgown on the bottom in ombre for extra intrigue. Sizes 6-18. Buy at Dillard's.

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Understated chic. We love the casual elegance of the crescent sleeve on the "Jenny" gown. The deep V, empire waist, and that sexy-but-not-too-revealing slit. Sizes 0 to 22. Buy from Sachin & Babi.

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Belle of the ball, grown-up style. We love the way this fabric shimmers, the three-quarters length semi-sheer sleeves, the big, beautiful pleated skirt. Everyone looks lovely in an A-line. Sizes 0-18. Buy from Mac Duggal.

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Putting the "special" in special occasion. Tastefully covered up, with plenty of sparkle and those short ruffle tiered sleeves as the exclamation point. A-line, and intended to skim the floor. Sizes 2-18. Buy from Dillards.

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This gown was made for a dramatic walk up the aisle. We're crazy about that hint of pink lining you see as the fabric flares from the off center front slit. That extra hint of skin at the asymmetrical neckline is a fresh detail, too. For special occasion dressing on a budget, Aqua is one of our go-to brands. Sizes 0-16. Buy from Bloomingdale's.

The epitome of elegance. We love the simplicity of this one shoulder, fit to flare draped scuba crepe gown. And the vibrant color. And the wide range of sizes, 00 to 28. It's also a great choice for tall women, as it comes in extra long length as well as regular. Buy from Amsale. 

Beautiful illusions. You get the strapless effect with delicate coverage of stretch tulle material at the neckline and cap sleeve, plus the adornment of a pretty Hibiscus flower to add some character. The peekaboo effect repeats with the high-low skirt, allowing a moment to show off a fabulous heel—in a pop of color or metallic, perhaps? Available in jet black or navy Sizes 0-22W. Buy the "Blakely" gown from Sachin & Babi.

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Flattering A-line silhouette: check. Lace three-quarters-length sleeves: check. Small v-neck cutout for a hint of skin: check. Fully lined, built-in bra, this ankle-length gown, available in 40 (!!) colors and a wide range of sizes delivers a fantastic bang for the buck. Buy from JJ's House.