These Formal Wedding Guest Dresses Look Way More Expensive Than They Actually Are

A black-tie wedding is the perfect excuse to go all out with your look, but when the happy couple wants their guests to show up in formal wedding guest dresses and tuxedos, well, you probably think you have to drop some serious coin if you want to look the part.

Luckily, you don’t have to go too far to find options that read elegant and traditional—but ring in at far less intimidating price points. Designers and labels across the board are rethinking formalwear with chic yet budget-friendly pieces that are perfect for nailing the formal dress code—and making a serious entrance at every event you have. (Apologies in advance to the bride.) 

It took us a minute, but we found over a dozen of these gems and curated them all in a mini shopping guide for you to piece together your full look. Best part? Save for one ethereal halter we couldn’t not include, they all come in at less than $500, which is no small feat considering just how on-point they are. Ahead, 17 formal wedding guest dresses to RSVP yes to, including the dreamiest floral print gown and a twinkling bodycon mini that looks like the real-life version of Instagram’s glitter filter.