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Satin, Sequins And Statement Silhouettes—These Brands Have Your Next Formal Outfit Sorted

From show-stoppers to timeless glamour.
Best formal dresses
(Credit: @ratandboa / @bronxandbanco / @_aje_
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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


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.

Aje

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.

AJE
Etta Gown

AJE
Splendour Flower Gown

AJE
Pandorea Layered Maxi Dress

AJE
Twyla Midi Dress

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.

REBECCA VALLANCE
Dahlia Blossom Gown

REBECCA VALLANCE
Ella Gown

REBECCA VALLANCE
Erin Maxi Dress

REBECCA VALLANCE
Annette Button Gown

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.

BEC + BRIDGE
Cedar City Maxi Dress

BEC + BRIDGE
Sol Asymmetrical Dress

BEC + BRIDGE
Moondance V Maxi Dress

BEC + BRIDGE
Frida Halter Dress

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.

SHONA JOY
La Luna Off Shoulder Maxi Dress

SHONA JOY
Tatum Cown Back Maxi Dress

SHONA JOY
La Luna Halter Neck Maxi Dress

SHONA JOY
Adri Srtapless Panelled Maxi Dress

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.

HOUSE OF CB
Marcella Pleated Maxi Dress

HOUSE OF CB
Victoria Chiffon-Skirt Maxi Dress

HOUSE OF CB
Anabella Lace-Up Maxi Dress

HOUSE OF CB
Violette Fishtail-Hem Maxi Dress

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.

BRONX AND BANCO
Dahlia Gown

BRONX AND BANCO
Jasmine Floral Maxi Dress

BRONX AND BANCO
Anastasia Maxi Dress

BRONX AND BANCO
Farah Strapless Gown

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.

MANNING CARTEL
Marine Dream Dress

MANNING CARTEL
Royal Debut Dress

MANNING CARTEL
Charmed Cowl Slip Dress

MANNING CARTEL
Enchantment Gown

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.

RAT & BOA
Olympia Sequin Dress

RAT & BOA
Hibiscus Dress Red

RAT & BOA
Navarra Dress Lime

RAT & BOA
Selena Dress

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