Women's Formal & Black Tie Dresses

Special occasions demand top-tier style. That’s why you’ll find black tie dresses in a wide range of designs, colors, and sizes at Macy’s. Whether browsing maternity formal dresses for an evening event or plus size formal dresses for a black-tie wedding, Macy’s helps you achieve the look you want. But women’s formal dresses aren’t the only things you’ll need for a special event. We also carry accessories to complete your outfit, like an evening bag, a shawl or wrap, and exquisite diamond jewelry to add sparkle to the night. Here’s more information about Macy’s formal dresses and how to create an occasion-worthy ensemble.

What Makes a Formal Dress Different?

Let’s begin with the basics. A semi-formal dress is not the same as a formal dress. Semi-formal dresses are equivalent to men’s suits; formal dresses are equivalent to tuxedos. Events like cocktail parties and rehearsal dinners usually call for semi-formal dresses, while evening events like black-tie weddings and galas require black-tie dresses for women. Some formal cocktail dresses have higher hemlines that show off the legs, but most formal dresses for women hit at the ankle or graze the floor. If you’re 5'4" or under, shop our selection of petite formal dresses. These long formal dresses are designed for smaller silhouettes. We also carry high heels that will extend your stature a few inches.

Other Considerations: Season and Type of Occasion

Do you need help choosing a style and color that adheres to the dress code? A short formal dress is best for a prom or college formal; long formal dresses for women are the norm at most evening events. Black is a popular color for winter formal dresses, though black formal dresses look elegant any time of the year. Spring formal dresses usually incorporate lighter, brighter colors, and red formal dresses are appropriate for every season. Are you choosing a dress for an upcoming wedding? Macy’s carries all kinds of wedding guest dresses, including formal styles.

Shop black tie and formal dresses, available at Macy's.