A black gown that stands out from the crowd. The detailing is exquisite—hand-embellished mesh overlay with all over beading. The fitted style is elongating and the flutter sleeve is a favorite. Sizes 4 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.

When else are you going to wear all-over sequins? There's something really elegant about the all-over affect of the sequins on this classic metallic brocade sequin lace gown, and we love the A-line flare. Sizes 6 to 22. Buy from Saks Fifth Avenue.

This classy gown checks a whole lot of boxes: the v-neck that shows of a little skin in all the right places (especially flattering for a larger bust), the voluminous sleeve that is ever-so-stylish while also offering coverage where you want it, the mermaid silhouette to show off curves without a pinch. Sizes 0 to 16. Buy from Saks Fifth Avenue.

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

You look great, but don't like to flaunt it. You lean preppy. You gravitate to neutrals. Well we've got you. This long sleeve column with a semi-sheer bodice, diagonal beading and delicate waist is perfectly modern and so chic. Sizes 2 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.

Modern and chic. The pleating and gathered chiffon at the waist adds flattering definition. This is a great style for curvy women. Because it's got flow without too much volume and is designed to hit at the ankle, we recommend it for petites as well. You can chose your size, 0 to 26, or provide measurements for made to order. It comes in more than 30 colors! Buy from JJ's House.

Timelessly glamorous; effortlessly modern. Off the shoulder is the comfortable alternative to strapless and so elegant, especially with the cinched waist and full A-line skirt. Sizes 0 to 18. Buy from Bloomingdale's.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.