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Black is a color that effortlessly makes you look classy, charming, and elegant. What’s more, a black evening dress is perfect for just about any event. From balls to prom nights to formal dinners to weddings, you can’t go wrong with a black dress. These dresses will make you stand out from the crowd and fill the room with a charismatic aura!
Although it sounds easy, choosing the perfect black evening dress can be a tricky task. You’ll want a dress with a flattering fit, one that shows off your body, and gives off a bold yet elegant vibe. Most importantly, you’ll want to pick a dress that complements the specific event you’re planning to attend.
To give you a helping hand, we’ve rounded up our top picks for the trendiest black evening dresses in 2024, suitable for every occasion. Also, we’ve included a handy buyer’s guide with essential buying tips to help you choose the right dress. Read on to learn all you need to know about buying a black evening dress!
Comparing the Finest Black Evening Dresses of 2024
WOOSEA Black Evening Dress — Best Overall
This chic and classy floor-sweeping gown by WOOSEA features a ruffled split mermaid hem, bodycon neck, and a long length, making this black evening dress perfect for prom, cocktail nights, romantic dinners, and weddings. Plus, its breathable polyester material is suitable for all seasons.
What’s more, the body fit this dress gives is unreal and it fits true to size. You can even pair this dress with a woolen coat or cardigan if you plan to wear it in colder, wintery weather. Overall, the modern, chic design and body-flattering fit makes this dress our best overall choice.
Pros
- Stretchy, breathable, and comfortable material
- Features a flattering, high neck design
- Comes in a variety of colors
Cons
- Not suitable for casual wear
72styles Black Evening Dress — Most Versatile
Are you a bride looking for the perfect bridesmaids dresses for your wedding? Say no more! This infinity black evening dress with a convertible design is just what you need. Perfect for a variety of body types, you can create different styles with this dress by wrapping it as you like. Even if you wear this dress five times on different occasions, no one will notice if you style it differently each time.
What’s more, the dress comes with a matching tube top, just in case you want to cover your back. Plus, this matching top can help you create a whole new style as well. Not just for weddings, this dress is perfect for evenings out on casual dates, formal dinners, and even for use on the beach.
Pros
- Elastic, wrinkle-resistant fabric
- Wrap closure for up to 10 different looks
- Includes a matching tube top
Cons
- Fabric is on the lighter side
Knitee Black Evening Dress — Most Elegant
Nothing is more elegant than a deep V neck, mid-length, and a side slit, right? Well, this black evening dress by Knitee is proof of that! The body-hugging silhouette and cut of this dress will remind you of Hollywood. Plus, it features a zipper closure and short ruffled sleeves that are attractive yet comfortable.
What’s more, this mid-length black evening dress is ideal for cocktail parties, dinner dates, clubs, and wedding parties. Pair it with strappy pencil heels and an elegant bracelet to complete the look! Overall, this dress gives a new name to simplicity and elegance. Lastly, its deep V neck is sure to highlight your collarbones.
Pros
- Ruffled sleeves add an elegant touch
- Zipper closure for a secure fit
- Made of stretchy polyester and spandex
Cons
- Not recommended for casual wear
Ezbelle Black Evening Dress — Most Flattering
A black evening dress featuring an off-the-shoulder sleeve, and a mid-length – what could be better? This dress by Ezbelle is stunning, elegant, and extremely classy. The neckline cutout and body fit of this wrap dress are to die for. Plus, the fitted skirt makes the overall look gorgeous and chic.
The best part? It has an elastic closure at the waist to give you a customized, comfortable fit. Just pair this lovely dress with some black heels, a black clutch, and a pearl necklace, and you’ll be good to go. Whether it's spring, summer, or winter, the breathable fabric of this dress will always keep you comfortable.
Pros
- Ribbed knit fabric is comfortable to wear
- Features a modest, elegant midi length
- Pull-on closure for easy wear
Cons
- You may need to wear shapewear underneath
Ever-Pretty Evening Gown — Padded Design
Last but not the least, this sophisticated, flowing maxi dress by Ever-Pretty is a timeless addition to your wardrobe. The dress is almost strapless, with just one shoulder on the left side falling like a drape. Plus, the dress is conveniently padded so you can ditch the undergarments. What’s more, the ruffled design at the bust area offers great coverage.
This black evening dress is perfect for weddings, formal dinners, balls, romantic date nights, and prom. You can complete the look with dewy makeup and a pair of statement earrings and to turn some heads. This dress is nothing but class, sophistication, and elegance combined!
Pros
- Features one shoulder for added style
- Fully lined and padded
- Affordable, elegant options
Cons
- Fabric is not very stretchy
Buying Guide: Choosing a High-Quality Black Evening Dress
As mentioned above, picking the right black evening dress for a special occasion can be hard. Evening dresses come in different styles, lengths, and designs. It’s easy to become confused and overwhelmed when looking at the countless options available on the online market. Below, we’ve put together a detailed buyer’s guide to help you choose the right dress for your big event. Scroll through our guide before making your purchase so you can make the right choice!
How to Choose a Black Evening Dress
There are a couple of important factors you need to consider before finally making your purchase. These factors include your personal preference, occasion, season, and your body shape. Let’s take a look at each of these factors in detail.
Venue and occasion
Venue and occasion play an important role in deciding what type of black evening dress you should buy. If it’s an outdoor event that takes place during the day, you may want to opt for something short and cute. However, if it's a wedding, you’ll likely need a dress that’s formal. Some of the dresses in this guide can be styled for different events, making them hugely versatile.
Season
If it's winter, you’ll want to choose a dress made out of textured and warm fabrics like velvet, lace, or polyester. If you’re planning to wear your dress in the summer, opt for a dress made out of breathable and soft fabrics to stay comfortable, especially if it will be hot.
Personal preference
Lastly, the most important factor is to choose a dress according to your personal preference. Pick something that you love the style of and will feel comfortable wearing. For instance, if you aren’t comfortable wearing knee-length dresses, then don’t choose one of this length. Likewise, if you love short cocktail dresses, then you’ll likely be happy wearing this style. Ultimately, choose a dress and style that speaks to you so you’ll enjoy wearing it!
What About Your Body Shape?
Another thing to keep in mind is your body shape. First, identify your body shape and then see what style of black evening dress will suit it. Here are some common body types, their characteristics, and what styles will suit them.
Apple
This body type has slim thighs and legs and a wide upper body frame. Dresses with off-the-shoulders designs, plunging necklines, plenty of skirt volume, and side slits will suit this type the best.
Hourglass
This curvy body type has a narrow waist and a fuller bust and hips. This shape will create a symmetrical curve on your midsection and upper body. Opt for dresses that are figure-hugging, feature an open back, are bodycon, and have a high neckline if you have this body type. Also, try to look for dresses with slim waistlines and long trains if you like wearing those designs.
Petite
Petite women have short stature and a slim upper body. Black evening dresses with a high belted waist will make your legs look longer and suit this body type well. You can also opt for short, knee-length dresses for casual events.
