Shopping for something elegant for your upcoming black tie wedding but needing to keep it inside of a budget? Lulus is the way to go! Lulus offers some of the best affordable black tie wedding guest dresses on the market that are not only under $120, but they are also super stylish.

Here you will find a thorough list of the best black tie wedding dresses on a budget that are worth purchasing. These dresses are quality made and perfect for any black tie wedding affair.

Wanting more options? Check out my blog post with even more affordable black-tie wedding guest dresses for guests!

What a Formal Black-Tie Wedding Dress Code Calls For

If the wedding invitation stated “black tie”, you must listen and go by their guidelines for dressing for the wedding. Here is what “black tie” means for a wedding:

• Floor-Length Gowns for Women: Women often wear formal, floor-length evening gowns. These can be in a variety of styles, such as mermaid, A-line, or ball gown, providing an elegant and sophisticated look.
• Tuxedos for Men: Men usually wear a classic black tuxedo with a black bow tie. A well-tailored suit can also be acceptable, but a tuxedo is the traditional and preferred choice for black-tie events.
• Formal Accessories: Women can complement their gowns with formal accessories like statement jewelry, evening clutches, and elegant heels. Men typically wear black dress shoes, a black bow tie, and may opt for cufflinks and a pocket square.
• Luxurious Fabrics: Dresses and suits made from luxurious fabrics such as silk, satin, velvet, or chiffon are often chosen for black-tie events, adding a touch of opulence to the attire.
• Dark, Rich Colors: While black is a classic choice, women can also opt for dark and rich colors like navy, burgundy, or deep green. Men can experiment with deep-colored suits, but black is still the safest and most traditional choice.
• Formal Hairstyles and Makeup: Women may choose elegant updos or sophisticated hairstyles, and makeup tends to be more polished and refined. Men often keep their hair groomed and may consider a clean shave or well-groomed facial hair.
• Evening Gloves (optional): Women can choose to accessorize further with evening gloves, especially for more formal or traditional black-tie events. This adds a touch of old-world glamour to the ensemble.

What to Look for in Black Tie Wedding Guest Dresses

Now that you have a better understanding of what it means when your wedding invite says “black tie affair”, what does that mean for us wedding guests? How do we pick out the right black-tie attire?

The good news is that there are plenty of guides out there (like this one) and we’ve got you covered!

Here are some tips on what to look for when choosing an outfit that fits inside of the black-tie dress code for your upcoming wedding party:

• Elegant Evening Wear: For women, opt for a formal gown. This could be a floor-length dress in a rich color or classic black. Look for elegant silhouettes such as A-line, mermaid, or ball gown to suit the occasion.
• Tuxedo or Classic Suit for Men: Men should choose a classic black tuxedo for a traditional black-tie look. A well-tailored suit in a dark color, such as navy or charcoal gray, can also be acceptable. Ensure it is formal and well-fitted.
• Consider the Venue and Theme: Take into account the venue and any specific theme of the wedding. Some black-tie events may have a specific theme that influences the dress code, so it’s good to be aware of any unique considerations.
• Quality Fabrics: Opt for high-quality fabrics such as silk, satin, velvet, or chiffon. These materials add a touch of luxury and formality to your outfit, aligning well with the black-tie dress code. 
• Accessorize Appropriately: Choose accessories that complement your outfit. For women, consider statement jewelry, a chic clutch, and elegant heels. Men should opt for classic black dress shoes, cufflinks, and a well-matched bow tie.
• Follow Traditional Color Guidelines: While black is the classic choice, dark and rich colors like navy, burgundy, or deep green are also appropriate. Avoid overly bright or casual colors, as the emphasis is on formal and sophisticated attire.
• Grooming and Styling: Pay attention to grooming and styling. Women can opt for sophisticated hairstyles and polished makeup. Men should ensure their hair is well-groomed, and a clean shave or well-maintained facial hair contributes to a polished look.

Where to Find the Best Collection of Wedding Guest Dresses for a Black Tie Wedding

There are quite a few places to shop online for an affordable black-tie wedding guest dress, however, Lulu’s takes the cake!

Here are a few reasons why Lulu’s is a great place to shop for wedding guest dresses:

• Wide Range of Styles: Lulu’s offers a diverse and extensive collection of dresses, catering to various styles and preferences. Whether you’re looking for something classic, trendy, or unique, they have options to suit different tastes.
• Affordable Elegance: Lulu’s is known for providing stylish and elegant dresses at affordable prices. This makes it a great choice for individuals who want to look fabulous without breaking the bank, especially considering that wedding guest dresses are typically worn on special occasions.
• Quality Materials: Lulu’s focuses on using quality materials for their dresses. This attention to material ensures that their outfits not only look good but also feel comfortable to wear, which is essential for enjoying a wedding celebration.
• Exclusive Designs: Lulu’s Weddings often features exclusive designs, offering customers a chance to find unique and distinctive dresses. This exclusivity adds a special touch to their collection, making it appealing for those who want something a bit more one-of-a-kind.
• User-Friendly Online Platform: The Lulu’s website provides a user-friendly online shopping experience. It’s easy to navigate, and they often provide detailed product descriptions, size guides, and customer reviews, helping shoppers make informed decisions.
• Frequent New Arrivals: Lulu’s regularly updates its inventory with new arrivals, ensuring that customers have access to the latest trends and styles. This is advantageous for those who want to stay fashion-forward and find the perfect dress for the upcoming wedding season.
• Positive Customer Feedback: Lulu’s has garnered positive reviews from customers, reflecting satisfaction with their products, customer service, and overall shopping experience. Positive testimonials can instill confidence in potential buyers looking for reliable sources for wedding guest attire.

Below you will find ten beautifully cheap black tie wedding approved wedding guest dresses that are all under $120 and fit for most all formal occasions.

Black-Tie Wedding Guest Dresses from Lulu’s

If you are looking for the perfect black tie wedding guest dress, you are going to find it on this list. We have included plenty of black tie dresses in different styles from floor-length gowns, dresses with long sleeves, and dresses with a plunging neckline.

While most of these are black dresses, you will find some dresses in different shades of dark colors. 

Keep scrolling to find your perfect formal gown!

1. Elegant Occasion Black Sequin One-Shoulder Midi Dress

Dress to impress on any special occasion with the Lulus Elegant Occasion Black Sequin One-Shoulder Midi Dress. Adorned with shimmering sequins, the one-shoulder neckline and fitted bodice with boning exude glamour. The single long sleeve adds a touch of drama, and the tulip midi skirt, topped with side ruching, completes the chic look. Don’t forget the convenience of the hidden side zipper!

2. Never-Ending Glamour Black Mesh Cross-Front Halter Maxi Dress

Indulge in endless glamour with the Lulus Never-Ending Glamour Black Mesh Cross-Front Halter Maxi Dress, designed to captivate with its flirty and fabulous style. Crafted from stretchy mesh knit, this dress showcases a crisscrossing halter neckline, forming a keyhole cutout on the front. The sheer corset-inspired bodice, featuring underwire and boning, adds allure, while the high, fitted waist and tulip skirt with side gathering create an elegant silhouette. The sexy open-back design is secured with button loop closures and a hidden back zipper/clasp for a seamless finish.

3. Grand Beauty Black Ruffled One-Shoulder Mermaid Maxi Dress

Achieve a chic-meets-elegant aesthetic effortlessly with the Lulus Grand Beauty Black Ruffled One-Shoulder Mermaid Maxi Dress, available exclusively at Lulus. The stylish gown is crafted from stretchy, medium-weight crepe knit, forming a captivating asymmetrical neckline with a tiered, ruffled one-shoulder sleeve that extends into the darted bodice. The high, fitted waist gracefully transitions into a figure-flaunting maxi skirt, complete with a flaring mermaid hem, and is secured seamlessly with a hidden side zipper/clasp.

4. Love Lasts Forever Black Sequin Long Sleeve Maxi Dress

Embark on an eternal romance in the perfect dress with the Lulus Love Lasts Forever Black Sequin Long Sleeve Maxi Dress, exclusively from Lulus. This stunning ensemble features rows of black sequins adorning the surplice bodice and long sleeves, creating a glamorous allure. The maxi skirt adds to the elegance with its overlapping design, providing a faux wrap look, and the dress is effortlessly secured with a hidden back zipper/clasp.

5. Forever Flawless Black Sheer Lace Strapless Bustier Maxi Dress

Attain perfection effortlessly in the show-stopping Lulus Forever Flawless Black Sheer Lace Strapless Bustier Maxi Dress. The sensational dress begins with a sweetheart neckline featuring hidden no-slip strips, leading to a strapless, satin bustier-inspired bodice. Complete with sheer lace panels, padded cups with underwire supports, and supportive boning, the dress also showcases a high, banded waist that tops a sheer mesh maxi overlay adorned with vertical ruffle details, creating an eye-catching high-low effect. The finishing touch is a hidden back zipper/clasp for seamless elegance.

6. Brilliantly Bold Black Strapless Mermaid Maxi Dress

Ensure you capture attention effortlessly with the Lulus Brilliantly Bold Black Strapless Mermaid Maxi Dress, a striking choice for making a statement. Crafted from sleek woven fabric, the dress features a straight neckline with no-slip strips, adorned with a sheer organza flounce. The strapless, princess-seamed bodice, complete with supportive boning at the sides, leads to a high waist, complementing the figure-skimming mermaid maxi skirt. To perfect the ensemble, a hidden back zipper/clasp provides a seamless finish.

7. True to Heart Black Floral Embroidered Maxi Dress

Embrace your heart’s desires with the Lulus True to Heart Black Floral Embroidered Maxi Dress, available exclusively at Lulus. The elegant maxi dress features sheer mesh adorned with cream, plum purple, and green floral embroidery, creating a captivating look. The princess-seamed, surplice bodice is supported by adjustable skinny straps that lace and tie atop an open back, while playful chiffon ruffles add a flirty touch along the neckline and throughout the tiered maxi skirt. Complete with a hidden back zipper/clasp for a seamless finish.

8. Garden Bliss Black Cutout Long Sleeve Mermaid Maxi Dress

Indulge in enchantment with the Lulus Garden Bliss Black Cutout Long Sleeve Mermaid Maxi Dress, designed to sweep you off your feet. Crafted from stretchy crepe knit, the dress showcases a crew neckline, darted bodice, and long chiffon balloon sleeves with elasticized cuffs. A high, fitted waist leads to a figure-flaunting mermaid maxi skirt featuring a striking side slit, and an alluring back cutout guarantees head-turning allure. The dress is adorned with an exposed gold zipper at the top and a hidden back zipper/clasp at the skirt for a polished finish.

9. Pretty Companion Black Floral Velvet Burnout Maxi Dress

Indulge in undeniable beauty with the Lulus Pretty Companion Black Floral Velvet Burnout Maxi Dress. Crafted from lightweight woven fabric, the dress showcases a burnout velvet floral pattern in moody colors, forming a surplice neckline, darted bodice, and adjustable spaghetti straps. The high, fitted waist is adorned with a tying sash belt, leading to an A-line maxi skirt with a flirty side slit, and the dress is seamlessly secured with a hidden back zipper/clasp.

10. Ideal Occasion Black Pleated Flutter Sleeve Backless Maxi Dress

Leave a lasting impression all night in the Lulus Ideal Occasion Black Pleated Flutter Sleeve Maxi Dress, a stunning choice crafted to impress. The lightweight accordion-pleated chiffon fabric creates short flutter sleeves with elastic at the shoulders. A flattering bodice with an open back and a banded waist complement the V-neckline, while the A-line silhouette of the skirt flows gracefully to a maxi hem. Complete with a hidden zipper/clasp at the back for a polished finish.

Alternative to An Affordable Wedding Guest Dress:

Picture this: luxe feather trim and rhinestone jumpsuit that screams celebration. 

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Accessories for Affordable Black Tie Wedding Guest Dresses

I hope this post makes dressing for the wedding season a breeze and helps you find a beautiful gown worthy of the exciting formal evening events coming your way!

Remember, when in doubt, select a black gown and some black heels then pin up your hair and clasp on some delicate jewelry and you will be ready to go with your perfect black tie wedding attire.
If you are still in the market and haven’t found the right formal dresses just yet, check out my blog post with even more floor-sweeping gowns worthy of any special occasion.