There’s nothing like an event invitation that sends us straight into outfit-planning mode. No matter the occasion, you can guarantee we’re pairing our favourite dresses with clutches and heels before we’ve even hit RSVP.
A formal dress code can feel a little daunting though—typically, it calls for a floor-length style, however a statement-making mini or jumpsuit is also fitting—but consider it your chance to dress up as though you’re walking a red carpet.
ELLE‘s Edit Of The Best Formal Dresses
- Best For Feminine Silhouettes: Aje
- Best For Statement Styles: Rebecca Vallance
- Best For Curve-enhancing Styles: House Of CB
- Best For Embellished Dresses: Bronx & Banco
- Best For Trend-led Designs: Rat & Boa
Whether you prefer classic and elegant or love something bold and unexpected, the right outfit should feel like a main character moment.
To make things easier, we’ve found a range of formal dresses that will suit any occasion—whether you are attending a wedding or just want to go all out for a birthday celebration.

Best For: Feminine silhouettes
If your style leans floaty, feminine and just a little bit extra, Aje needs to be on your radar. It’s a breath of fresh air after scrolling through one too many satin slip dresses—offering volume, drama and those signature sculptural details that make dressing up actually feel fun again.

Best For: Statement styles
If there’s one thing Rebecca Vallance knows, it’s how to nail a wow-factor moment. This is red carpet energy without the stylist—and it’s built into the brand’s DNA. Think sleek silhouettes, strong tailoring and just the right amount of drama.

Best For: Silky gowns
Bec + Bridge has been a mainstay in every Aussie fashion girl’s wardrobe for good reason. While they’ve mastered the everyday, their formal looks are just as strong—silky slips, low backs, and sleek maxis that look glamorous on all occasions.

Best For: Classic staples
Shona Joy brings a little vintage-inspired magic to modern-day dressing. With timeless styles you’ll call on for future events to come, it’s the kind of brand you’ll keep coming back to for every special occasion.

Best For: Curve-enhancing styles
For those who love their dresses with a little va-va-voom, House of CB has your name all over it. Known for snatched silhouettes and structured corsets, their pieces are romantic, sultry, and made to turn heads.

Best For: Embellished dresses
The Australian-born label has gained international acclaim for its intricate detailing, and impeccable tailoring when it comes to glamorous evening wear. Here you’ll find show-stopping formal dresses with that bring the drama in the best way.

Best For: Wardrobe staples
Born from a desire to craft considered, contemporary clothing without compromise, Manning Cartell’s formal dresses range from statement-making to effortless styles easily dressed up or down.

Best For: Trend-led designs
Rat & Boa are a brand to keep in mind if you want to make a statement. From sequin dresses to bold colours and prints, you’ll find dramatic yet undeniably glamorous styles.