Black-tie occasions have a crafty way of popping up when you least expect them (read: always, unless you're a professional socialite). Sure, you can go with the tried, true, and...tired LBD sitting in the back of your closet — or the prom dress that's still sitting in the back of your closet. But it might be time to take a grown-up step and have more than one go-to fancy frock in your arsenal. If the main reason your wardrobe is lacking in the evening gown department is sticker shock (hey, it's real), look no further. We've broken down the next 12 dresses by price — starting at $33.So whether you actually have a formal invite on your calendar or you just want to be prepared for all the one day/what-if events you've imagined, shop away. We don't believe in the rule that you can only wear a good dress once, so in our book, any piece is worth the splurge.
Under $150
If you can't pick one hue, go for a dress that has three.
Front Row Shop Colour Block Chiffon Dress, $66 $33, available at Front Row Shop.
Under $150
"Show stoppin' at the latest spot..."
Zara Pleated Dress, $49.90, available at Zara.
Under $150
Do your best Angelina with that thigh-high slit.
Topshop Column Strappy Maxi Dress, $150, available at Topshop.
$150-300
Hello, elegant draping.
& Other Stories Draped Dress, $175, available at & Other Stories.
$150-300
Since wearing a nightgown in public is still a faux pas, this silky number is the next best thing.
Reformation Eleanor Dress, $248, available at Reformation.
$150-300
Sartorial inspiration: disco ball.
Front Row Shop Silver Silk Evening Dress with Back Details, $212 $180.20, available at Front Row Shop.
$300-500
A little black dress will never be unnecessary.
Rachel Comey Crane Dress, $495, available at Rachel Comey.
$300-500
Some nights are made for show-stopping.
Tibi Strapless Stretch-Crepe Dress, $425, available at Net-a-Porter.
$300-500
Remember: Black tie doesn't always mean stuffy. An eccentric print and cutout bodice works just as well.
Three Floor Accordion Dress, $314, available at Three Floor.
$300-500
If your style leans more traditional, this two-toned gown is the perfect blend of classic and modern.
Ty-Lr The Formation Dress, $430, available at Ty-Lr.
$500 & Up
"Pretty in pink" has never looked so, well, pretty.
Carven Cady Strapless Gown, $750, available at Otte.
$500 & Up
The slightly oversize cut and embroidered details make this strapless piece a winner.
Stella McCartney Black Danika Dress, $2,935 $1,174, available at Stella McCartney.
$500 & Up
Why not take that off-the-shoulder silhouette to the dance floor?
Prabal Gurung Off The Shoulder Knit Dress, $1,425, available at Moda Operandi.
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