A new twist on one shoulder. The asymmetrical ruffled neckline is so chic; the ruching and figure sculpting silhouette (with slit) is so sophisticated; and the modern jacquard steps it up to truly special occasion. Would be great with a metallic or even a bright color heel. Sizes 0 to 22. Buy from Teri Jon. 

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Tasteful and sexy can indeed go hand in hand as Mac Duggal proves with this sleek one shoulder column dress, ruched in all the right places, with head-to-toe sequins to give it a sparkle that feels modern and not over the top. Comes in several vibrant colors in addition to gorgeous green. Sizes 0 to 16. Buy from Mac Duggal.

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This luxe green halter style will take you from fall straight into holiday. It's a great combination of fit and A-line flare pleats to add dimension and movement. (Note the peekaboo back!) Sizes 0 to 16. Buy from Bloomingdale's.

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Nothing makes you feel more like the (mama) belle of the ball than an A-line strapless gown. But we love that classic silhouette as the canvas for this pretty and unexpected brocade in olive and pink—sure to complement many a bridal party. Pro tip: have the top brought in tight to hold everything in place and you won't spend the day hiking it up. Sizes 2-16. Buy from Mac Duggal. 

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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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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. 

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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.

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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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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.

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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 18. Buy from Bloomingdale's. 

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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. 

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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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