Reddit mentions: The best formal

I think this is really lovely. Its basic and long for you but the embelishments on the top keep it formal-ish. Where the belt line sits will also emphasize on your hour glass waist and not be too tight. There are LOTS of photos in the reviews and I think there are people with a similar style to your body type as well. Its actually pretty flattering on many types. I think it would look pretty with long gloves or a nice shawl.

https://www.amazon.com/Miusol-Womens-Formal-Floral-Evening/dp/B07SPYQLNT/ref=sr_1_33?keywords=sleeve%2Bgothic%2Bdress&qid=1564774054&s=gateway&sr=8-33&th=1

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This one is similar and lacey which makes it a little more formal IMO. It looks really pretty in both the maroon and the navy. I think it needs a belt though for sure, which will help flatter the curves. I love how there is long pleats in a different fabric! Its really pretty. But without the belt I think its not flattering, as youc an see in the pictures in the reviews. This one does give you sleeves though, but they are lacey so they wont be as hot.

https://www.amazon.com/GMHO-Womens-Sleeve-Bridesmaid-Dress/dp/B076CCLYMC/ref=sr_1_151?keywords=sleeve%2Bgothic%2Bdress&qid=1564774348&s=gateway&sr=8-151&th=1

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This one is REALLY pretty. I would wear this one personally. Its got a full looking skirt which will help emphasize the curves as well. Its got a black top but I think that the printed bottom will even it out. You can also get it with long sleeves.

https://www.amazon.com/Skirt-Women-Shoulder-Sleeve-Printed/dp/B0772GF7F3/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=vintage+long+sleeve+dress&qid=1564774756&s=gateway&sr=8-5

This one is really pretty too, just dont go white or it looks like a wedding dress lol! Its very whimsical and lacy and pulls a very vintage vibe. Plus it has sleeves!

https://www.amazon.com/Imily-Bela-Vintage-Chiffon-Bridesmaid/dp/B07B9597NB/ref=sr_1_43?keywords=vintage%2Blong%2Bsleeve%2Bdress&qid=1564774838&s=gateway&sr=8-43&th=1

Definitely a Chinese site with an iffy track record. They're apparently using some kind of anonymizing service to pretend they're based in the US, which is already pretty creepy. Looks like they've also changed their name a few times. I don't know how reliable those sources are, but I definitely get a weird vibe from the site. I don't think the pictures are stolen, since they're styled consistently and have the same models in all of them. But it's definitely the kind of place where I would be dubious that I would actually receive what was pictured—if I ever even got it.

I don't know if you're looking for long or short, but I think something with a lace top and sleeves would be perfect for you! Nordstrom has some promising options, such as one, two, and three. I know the sleeves are a liiiiittle short on this one, but how pretty is this?! This dress from Asos has a lot going on, but could be super cute. You could also try separates! A tulle skirt with some kind of silk or lace top could be gorgeous. This Asos dress comes in short AND long options. This one is a more pastel option. (Imagine that top with the tulle skirt if you need long, actually! Is it crazy to wear a long skirt over that short skirt? Or just replace it altogether?) This one and this one look a little red in the picture, but the color is is called "plum" and they came up when I searched purple, so I'm guessing it looks different IRL. Same with this. This one also claims to be purple, although I'm dubious. But this one definitely is! This is totally out there, but if you've got an adventurous bride, maybe?

There's also a TON of stuff available on Amazon with Prime shipping, so even if it's weird Chinese crap, you're a little more protected! For instance, I saw a couple promising Adrianna Papell dresses (one, two) there that I didn't see at any department store. Examples of weird no-name dresses: one, two, three, four, five.

I have a lot of sympathy for your struggle—there are some matronly-ass dresses within your requirements out there!

Hi! I’m hoping maybe someone can help me out and give me some suggestions. I’m going to a wedding in mid October and I was thinking of wearing this maxi dress with these strappy shoes but I want something to cover up with because it will probably get chilly. The wedding isn’t particularly formal and is set in a barn with a rustic feel.

I’m not very glitzy or glam and I’m not a huge fan of super bright colors. My daily style is pretty relaxed, and fashionably cozy (think chunky knit baggy cardigans, knotted tees, cuffed jeans, and keds or loafers). I prefer more earthy/neutral/dusty/muted colors when it comes to my clothes.

I’m also open to wearing something else entirely but I already own the shoes and the dress and most of my other dresses are pretty summery. I have the same dress in heather gray but I worry that may be a little too casual looking.

If anyone has any suggestions they would be greatly appreciated. thank you! 🖤

We planned our out of state elopement in three weeks! Here is what we did:

• Finding the photographer was definitely a challenge, but we found one using a hashtag search on Instagram, #CITYweddingphotographer. If they have a number, save time and call them! You could also contact chains like Lily and Lime or George Street Photo if you're looking for a photographer for a few hours.
  
  
• For a dress, I went to a bridal consignment shop and did the alterations in house, they were done in 10 days. This dress from Amazon is quite popular as well. I purchased it myself, but it was too small for me (US16) I was really disappointed, because the quality was fantastic for the price!
  
  
• We were unable to find a florist for my bouquet, so I went to the floral department at Kroger the night before, picked out a $20 bouquet, and they assembled, wrapped, and pinned it for only $10. You can also rent a bouquet online from places like Something Borrowed Blooms.
  
  
• Look on google for "CITY elopement officiants" we found ours on the first page, and she was wonderful, and a great price.
  
  
• You will be able to find elopement packages in some cities as well! Try Googling "CITY elopement package"

I'm both panicking and so excited! I also feel like I've been super naggy with my fiance to get his stuff done (work with a tailor for his suit, pick out his readings, etc.) but it'll all be over soon.

Now we're working on constructing our ceremony (script and music) getting invites printed and mailed in mid-March, finalizing bridal party outfits (my girls' dresses came in recently and I LOVE them! $30 on Amazon, the quality of the fabric is really nice and it looks great on two completely different looking ladies.

We also have to figure out all of our little touches, like welcome bags and bridal party gifts. Wish we could finish up our menu but given our venue (it's a food and bev minimum rather than a rental fee), it's hard to without a head count.

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Not sure of your budget or size and some of these are strapless but it's the best I could find at the moment. Hope you see something you like. The first one was the most like the one you posted. You could also find a tulle bolero to wear with a dress if you find one you love that doesn't have sleeves. My moms friend wore one over her arms and shoulders but had it go under the top of her sleeveless dress to make it seem like she had a long sleeve dress on. Good luck!

Edit- also, Rent The Runway has lots of beautiful gowns that you could rent if worst comes to worst.

I've searched this sub and other fashion sites/subs but have found varying answers regarding semi formal wear and several of the answers say "well it's dependent upon the season/time of wedding/venue, etc." which doesn't help me get an answer!
I've got this gorgeous black lace (with nude lining) floor length dress that I'd like to wear to a relative's wedding this December near Christmas. The wedding venue is kind of like a cultural center. The wedding is at 2 PM. It will likely be snowy and super cold which is why I wanted to wear something with sleeves and that was long.

This is the dress: http://www.amazon.com/Miusol-Womens-Deep-V-Sleeves-Bridesmaid/dp/B00MEB6ZZ2/ | Imgur link: http://imgur.com/lsTsGxb

I know how FFA feels about these cheapy dresses, but this one is actually surprisingly well made, ultra comfortable, and very flattering. And yes, I know this dress is a knockoff!

So...is this dress OK or should I opt for a knee length dress and wear tights to stay warm? Thanks for your opinions!!!

I love the juxtaposition of different styles and colors.

I'm not sure why, but I love browsing wedding gowns, so, for your consideration, based on your dream dress:

One

Two

Three, my favorite!

Congrats & here's to hoping you find a beautiful dress and have the happiest ever after!

I haven't decided whether I'll wear or keep it yet, since we might have a super casual ceremony. I also am drawn to vintage and nontraditional dresses, but I thought I'd share.

I just bought this because I was curious! The photos used on the Amazon page are stolen from a real designer (sorry, real designer, I forget your name). I used Google Images to find the original post.

The quality seems comparable to the similar dresses I tried at David's Bridal. The fabric was heavy (in a good way) and the construction seems solid. The straps are a bit long and there's a bit too much room in the bust for me, so that would need alterations.

Ultimately, I'm pretty impressed.

Photos of the back and the dresses I tried at David's Bridal: https://imgur.com/a/daXXbcG

Note, I skipped holes while lacing the corset (was taking too long) and tied the corset myself so it's pretty messily done.

Link to the Amazon dress: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07QHD25HQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

ETA: I ordered a size 6, which fits me well in the waist. I ordered that because it's one of the only Prime eligible ones and I didn't want to risk not being able to return it or pay for shipping. I'm not sure if the size 4 would be better in the bust. I have a 27" waist and am 5' 8". The length is perfect for me too, which you can't really tell in the photos (slightly long in bare feet).

If you're still looking:

I spent almost a month searching everywhere for bridesmaids dresses under 75$, just out of courtesy for my girls. Asos, Lulus, and Charlotte Russe had some cute ones but not in the colors I was looking for. So try there first.

But honestly, I found exactly what I wanted on Amazon for 20-30$. There's a certain amount of risk when ordering off Amazon but one bridesmaid agreed to be the Guinea pig and it's actually great quality especially for the price. Just check the reviews. Here's a link to a similar dress:

Ever Pretty Womens Double V Neck Sleeveless Chiffon Bridesmaids Dress 6 US Pink https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JIJLCLA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_al4YxbG4QB5EE

REPHYLLIS Women Sexy Vintage Party Wedding Bridesmaid Formal Cocktail Dress(M,Burgundy) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019RQUTG2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Xl4YxbSNG8T18

I found my dress last year at a thrift store! I’d definitely check those out, sometimes there are some gems. Also, consignment shops are great! The internet makes me nervous cuz you never know if it’s gonna look like the picture or fit right, but I know Amazon has some decent ones too. There are three girls just in my class that ordered this one . Started a shitton of “omg we can’t have the same dress” drama but honestly, who cares. If you feel pretty and have a great time, that’s all that matters! ☺️

I initially wanted to buy a maxi which I could wear in the summer, but the material choices were not very flattering. The dresses that I liked were hugging at the hip and made my behind look huge. As someone with wider hips, I wanted an A-line dress and long enough at the same time. So after a lot of looking around, I bought this http://www.amazon.com/Miusol%C2%AE-Womens-Casual-Sleeveless-Vintage/dp/B00Z2LC398?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00

I used it for my baby shower and maternity shoot which occurred around week 32-33 of my pregnancy. I took the navy blue one and the darker color in fact had a slimming effect. It made me look pretty! :)

The best thing about this dress is, it was not specifically made for maternity, but it is so long it will still be long enough with a big bump. The reviews are true to the product.

I had my doubts, but I love it! As other reviewers noted, the belt is super cheap/flimsy, but otherwise the quality is great. I’ll need to get it hemmed, but that’s about it.


link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B06XC7TJ8Q/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1510802508&sr=8-4&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=babyonlinedress&dpPl=1&dpID=41jZb%2BISioL&ref=plSrch&th=1&psc=1

It was this one but it looked nothing like the picture. It didn't have a lot of reviews either but I decided to risk it. It looked super cheap and instead of nice lace it had his weird lace and cheap sequins. It was also just a zipper in the back and I should've just bought the one with the most reviews first.

My advice, after looking at so many, check out the reviews and customer photos. You can really see if it looks like the original and go from there.
I was also debating between this and this.
I didn't really have a set style I was looking for so I seriously debating buying all 4 and then returning the dresses I didn't like but decided on the first one (which was terrible) and then decided for $79 the second one would work.
Hope you find one you like!

I'm with you. I haven't gotten to serious dress shopping yet, but I know I'll be looking for something good enough. I won't have a moment where it's "the one." It bums me out. There's not going to be other opportunities for me to dress up like that. But I won't justify spending more.
I've seen a couple posts of this dress in grey that looked awesome. There's also a used dress shop in a city nearby that prices everything under $1000, so at least I can look in person without falling in love with something unattainable.

I'm pretty sure the Grace Karin prom dresses are about the nicest you can get from Amazon. [This one](Elegant Chiffon Backless Long Prom Evening Dress https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0152IQT3G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_6hYzxbZD739R6) has a zip-up back and comes in lots of pretty colors in your size.

I couldn’t tell what the exact neckline is on that one but here’s some options from amazon (I tried to stay in the same color if that helps you):

Elegant Chiffon Long Evening Dress White Size 2 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0152IQT3G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_mLXRAbW6VNGF4

JYDress Women Chiffon Sheer Back Evening Dresses Prom Gown With Beads Appliques https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074NR3VJ1/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_9MXRAbQJRR3B6

ACEVOG Women Summer Scoop Neck Long Floral Print Maxi Cocktail Party Dress White S https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01DM35SQM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_lOXRAb4X84RZ6

MisShow Crew Neck Sleeveless Lace Applique Flare Evening Gowns Formal https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XPF6J3D/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_WRXRAbEQZKW2P

Hi everyone! I'm new here, but I am going to a wedding next weekend and I purchased a dress on amazon. I thought it looked great at first but now I've scared myself into thinking it's not formal enough. The dress code was "festive formal". I have no idea what that means. Can someone please give me some opinions lol
Here is the link:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00ZEUUGUK/ref=sxts1?ie=UTF8&qid=1492136010&sr=1&pi=AC_UL420_SR280%2C420_QL65&th=1&psc=1

This version on Amazon is not likely to be original but the reviews and pictures from real brides are mostly positive:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01FD5H0HW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_T0jbBbNK4C7V3

This is actually my backup dress if I end up not being able to lose the weight I gained after purchasing my other dress (thanks anxiety!) so maybe it could be the second option if you can't find one from the original designer?

Just FYI, they also have this dress in a longer length on Amazon and it has good reviews!

Link

I'm commenting this again so people can see it :)

Well, I don't know how open you are to an online purchase, but Amazon has this and it has some very good reviews.

I ordered this dress for an event and it looked fabulous! 10/10 would recommend.

I highly recommend this Amazon dress. I got it for $67 with Prime shipping.

Here's a pic of me wearing it in red: https://imgur.com/a/fJXOS

Women's Plus Size V Neck Sleeveless Evening Party Long Lace Dresses (Burgundy,8) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XCB1VLJ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_UBhVzbC4GP1P2

I recently purchased this off Amazon and was surprised by how good the quality was, style wasn't for me though so I returned it.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XBXM6T3/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_TnnkDbPJQEMAM

Check out

• Amazon (ex. dress #1, dress #2)
  
• Etsy (esp. LaceMarry and VickyMermaidBridal)
  
• Azazie
  
• ChiChiLondon (note: British sizes are smaller than US ones, check the plus size section and the measurement table!)
  
• Boohoo
  
• Lulus
  
• Windsor
  
• David's Bridal $99 section.
  
  Remember that if something isn't perfect weddingy yet, you can always add a belt etc. to upgrade it! :)
  
  
  edit: format

My friend showed me this dress just the other day. You could get it shortened if you're not feeling full length?

Agreed, Amazon sells almost this exact dress. If a tailor can't do it, just order a new one from here.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XBXM6T3/ref=ox_sc_act_image_4?smid=A3QZK9FG8OZUNP&psc=1