Monday, October 16, 2023

The 16 Best Cashmere Sweaters For Channeling A Nancy Meyers Movie

Sweater aficionados know that cashmere is a premium cold-weather fabric with superior warmth and softness. The prized fiber is made from cashmere goats, whose cold home requires their coat to be extra thick. Once turned into thread, however, it can be woven or knitted into varying thicknesses. So no matter how you prefer your cozy — perhaps as a ribbed cardigan, a fitted pullover, or even a light, sleeveless shell — the ways in which you can layer and wear it are limitless. 

The thing about cashmere, however, is that it’s expensive — it's a rare fiber, after all. With the majority of the world’s supply coming from goats specifically living in the Gobi Desert, there’s a relatively long-ish supply chain process linked to producing sweaters and the like. To that end, the best cashmere sweaters generally veer toward basic or neutral (for versatility’s sake) — and it's only fitting that they're often purchased as investment pieces. (On the flip side, if a style is too-good-to-be-true cheap, the sweater is likely sus or blended with other not-as-soft materials.)

With so many fashion retailers and brands throwing around “100% cashmere” language, it’s hard to sort out where to find the sweaters worthy of your hard-earned dollars. So, for this edition of Hype Machine, we scanned countless sites to filter out the highest-rated cashmere layerables, according to serious cozy-seekers like you. (And, while Uniqlo doesn’t partake in customer reviews, we feel the retailer’s collection of cashmere crewnecks still deserves an honorable mention here for its longstanding level of quality and affordability.) Now that we’ve got all that out of the way, click on to see the best cashmere sweater styles the world wide web has to offer.

Welcome to Hype Machine, our hit-list of the top reviewed products across the web — according to a crowd of die-hard shoppers. Call this your 4-star & up only club, with entry granted by our devoted-to-the-goods shop editors.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

For more can't-miss shopping stories delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our Most Wanted newsletter.

Free People Sailor Cashmere Cardi


The Best Striped Cashmere Cardi

The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 20 reviews on FreePeople.com

The options are endless with this versatile striped cardigan. Wear it solo as a top or use it to layer in the colder months.

"I love this sweater. I got it in the green color and the buttons are so cute! They are kind of pearly which I didn’t expect but [are] a super cute pop! I’m 5’9” and 130 lbs. and I got the small. My thing is always sleeve length, and these were perfect! Not too short at all! Super soft too."

Free People Sailor Cashmere Cardi, $, available at Free People

Anthropologie Alani Cashmere Mock Neck Sweater


The Best Mock Neck Cashmere Sweater

The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 328 reviews on Anthropologie.com

Not quite a turtleneck and not quite a crew neck, this cashmere mock-neck sweater is an easy style to throw on for layering. Plus, take a look at all of the vibrant gemstone colors and prints!

"Super snuggly! I love the way this sweater hangs on my body. It's supersoft and not too thick of a fabric," writes a reviewer. "I'll most likely layer it with an undershirt during cooler weather. The floral pattern looks vintage and I'm super happy with my purchase!"

Pilcro The Alani Cashmere Mock-Neck Sweater, $, available at Anthropologie

Madewell Donegal (Re)sponsible Cashmere V-Neck Sweater Vest


The Best Responsibly Sourced Cashmere Sweater

The Hype: 5 out of 5 stars; 1 review on Madewell.com

Short sleeves are most definitely a good option for colder weather, especially in slightly oversized V-neck that is highly tuckable. Pair it with a midi skirt or jeans, layered or by itself — whatever fits your vibe.

"When I first saw this sweater I loved the colors. It’s a unique combination of dark and bright green, but it works," remarked a reviewer. "It’s super cozy and high quality as well. It also looks great by itself or with a long-sleeve underneath. It runs slightly big more than just a relaxed fit, but it’s the perfect layering piece for this fall I think you’ll love."

Madewell Donegal (Re)sponsible Cashmere V-Neck Sweater Vest, $, available at Madewell

Italic Camila Airy Cashmere Collared Sweater


The Best Collared Turtleneck Sweater

The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars; 94 reviews on Italics.com

There are endless options with this versatile cashmere shirt. Dress it up for work with a nice pair of slacks and some chunky loafers or down for a date night with a pleated skirt and some heels.

"Decent quality if not the most luxurious cashmere but the fit and where they fit on the hip works well with jeans, skirts, etc. Probably best worn alone rather than over a tee, etc.," raves one reviewer. Another reviewer noted that while it's a" favorite in [their] closet — high quality, comfy, and durable. It is a bit looser of a fit, so [they] had it tailored at the waist a bit. 10/10 recommend."

Italic Camila Airy Cashmere Collared Sweater, $, available at Italic

Naked Cashmere Joslyn Turtleneck Cashmere Sweater


The Best Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater

The Hype: 4.9 out of 5 stars; 123 reviews on NakedCashmere.com

This perfectly slouchy turtleneck styles well with any outfit, and it's so soft and warm that you might never want to take it off! Wear it with a your favorite pair of jeans or classic trousers — it's a timeless piece that will stay with you.

One reviewer raves that this is "the best cashmere turtleneck I have ever owned. I bought three colors. The quality is soft and the perfect weight. The oversized fit is comfortable. Looks great with jeans, a skirt, or tights. True to size. Fairly priced for the quality."

Naked Cashmere Joslyn Turtleneck Cashmere Sweater, $, available at Naked Cashmere

Jenni Kayne Cashmere Cocoon Cardigan


The Best Cozy Cashmere Cardigan Sweater

The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars; 1,964 reviews on JenniKayne.com

Though this Jenni Kayne ribbed cardigan is on the pricier end, it's very beloved, very luxurious, and worth every dollar, according to the designer's rabid fanbase. Plus, it has over 1,900 reviews, which says it all.

"The coziest of coziest! There’s a reason why they call this cardigan a cocoon," writes a reviewer. "It literally wraps you in warmth. It’s also extremely versatile — wear it buttoned, unbuttoned, tucked into jeans or pants, you name it and the sweater delivers."

Jenni Kayne Cashmere Cocoon Cardigan, $, available at Jenni Kayne

Quince Mongolian Cashmere Full-Zip Hoodie


The Best Cashmere Hoodie

The Hype: 4.9 out of 5 stars; 1,354 reviews on OneQuince.com

The Full-Zip Hoodie is another Quince item that we can't forget to list. If you live in a baggy hoodie all throughout the cold months and want to continue on your cozy-comfy journey, grab one of these hooded cashmere sweaters — perfect for cocooning your head from the cold air.

"I love this hoodie! It's very comfortable and warm," writes a reviewer. "It's the perfect hoodie to wear when I want to look casual, not like I'm going on a hike! I would definitely recommend it."

Quince Mongolian Cashmere Full-Zip Hoodie, $, available at Quince

J.Crew Cashmere Shrunken Cable-Knit Rollneck Sweater


The Best Classic Shrunken Cashmere Crewneck

The Hype: 5 out of 5 stars; 1 review on JCrew.com

We love a classic cable-knit sweater, but when it comes shrunken and in baby blue (plus three other adorable colors), how can anyone resist purchasing it? We love a cropped classic moment.

"Bought the light blue as well as navy. There was almost a frenzy in the store for the baby blue as I saw two people who were purchasing it at the same time I was — and I live in a very warm climate so this says quite a bit. The navy is so classic that I decided to just get both. Normally I'm an XS but went with XXS as I loved the more fitted look which is atypical for me when it comes to sweaters. Five stars — this should already be sold out."

J.Crew Cashmere Classic-Fit Crewneck Sweater, $, available at J.Crew

Nap Drawstring Cashmere Hoodie


The Best Hooded Cashmere Sweater

The Hype: 4.9 out of 5 stars; 60 reviews on Naploungewear.com

Just look at the relaxed fit of this cashmere sweater, perfect for lazy days. The attached hood and softness of the yarn that comes from cashmere goats just scream cozy!

"This is the second cashmere sweater (same style/company) that I have bought, and I love them both! They’re so soft, they fit nicely, and they’re lightweight but super warm. I am 5’5″ 140 pounds and I normally wear size small shirts, I will say the sweater is a little big, but I think it is meant to be that way. Just slightly! I actually like the way it is bigger and longer." writes a reviewer.

Nap Loungewear Drawstring Cashmere Hoodie, $, available at Nap Loungewear

Everlane The Cashmere Oversized Turtleneck


The Best Lounge-At-Home Cashmere Sweater

The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 53 reviews on Everlane.com

Envision a chilly, windy day. You're bundled up next to the fireplace with a book in hand and a warm drink. Everlane's oversized turtleneck sweater encases you in its warm, relaxed-fit sweater. Sounds too good to be true, right? So go ahead and let the daydream come to life.

"It is an oversized, soft, cozy cashmere turtleneck. The pale green one is, I think, my fourth one, I think? Still trying for black but very sold out. It is definitely oversized. Looks great with a short slim skirt and leggings. The turtleneck is high for my short neck but doesn’t scratch at all. I could live in one every day all winter," writes a reviewer.
"I have also worn it with sweatpants, curled up on the sofa on a chilly day. This is one of those pieces you grab for when you don’t know what else to wear, and it makes you look and feel better than you think you do."

Everlane The Cashmere Oversized Turtleneck, $, available at Everlane

Nadaam Recycled Cashmere Open Neck Polo


The Best Collared Cashmere Sweater

The Hype: 5 out of 5 stars; 42 reviews on Naadam.com

Polo shirts and half-zip sweaters are making a huge comeback — and this sweater satisfies both trends in one. Plus, it comes in six colorways and sizes XXS-3X.

"It's very soft while keeping a structured fit that is flattering," writes a reviewer. "Cashmere quality is superior to high-end stores and very affordable."

Naadam Recycled Cashmere Open Neck Polo, $, available at Naadam

L.L.Bean Classic Cashmere Crewneck


The Best Everyday Cashmere Sweater

The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 2,980 reviews on LLBean.com

When the weather dips, treat yourself to a cozy and soft cashmere sweater that you can wear every day of the week. There are 11 neutral and pastel hues to choose from, and it also comes in plus, petite, and tall fits.

"I have been purchasing LL Bean's cashmere sweaters for what seems like forever. Presently, I have at least five of them in my closet," writes a reviewer. "I cannot travel without them. They are incredibly lightweight and cozy to wear."

L.L. Bean Classic Cashmere Crewneck, $, available at L.L. Bean

Gentle Herd Oversized Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater


The Best Long Cashmere Sweater

The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 763 reviews on Gentleherd.com

Since this tunic-style cashmere sweater covers your hips and butt, it's a great choice for keeping you extra warm.

"What a beautiful thick and cozy sweater! I love how it sits just a bit below your hip so you can pull up or down," exclaims a reviewer. "It's definitely a good buy, and I'll be wearing this sweater a lot this year!"

Gentle Herd Oversized Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater, $, available at Gentle Herd

Summersalt The Coziest Cashmere Crew


The Best Two-Tone Cashmere Sweater

The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 56 reviews on Summersalt.com

For the most part, all solid-colored cashmere sweaters tend to look similar — which is why this Summersalt knit with bold, contrasting hems truly stands out.

"Comfortable, classy and unique. I love this sweater and always look forward to putting it on," shares a reviewer. "It looks great plain or with a necklace even though it has a decorative neckline."

Summersalt The Coziest Cashmere Crew, $, available at Summersalt

Quince Mongolian Cashmere Duster Cardigan Sweater


The Best Cashmere Duster Sweater

The Hype: 4.9 out of 5 stars; 553 reviews on OneQuince.com

If you want your cashmere sweater to look, feel, and fit more like outerwear, this open-front duster is the perfect grab-and-go jacket for fall. And, as with all of Quince's cashmere, this style is made entirely from Grade A Mongolian cashmere.

"I've been looking for a sweater like this for months," shares a reviewer. "The cashmere is thicker than I thought it would be. It's super soft, high quality, and a really neutral style that I'll wear constantly."

Quince Mongolian Cashmere Duster Cardigan Sweater, $, available at Quince

Jennie Liu Women's 100% Pure Cashmere Crew Neck Sweater


The Best Cashmere Crewneck On Amazon

The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 628 reviews on Amazon.com

Amazon can be a hit or miss, but this cashmere sweater is certainly a hit, according to the over 600 reviewers who rated this sweater an overall 4.4 out of 5 stars. If that doesn't pique your immediate interest, then one of its many, colorways surely will.

"I bought three of these cashmere crew neck sweaters and they are the most luxurious treat to wear. It's like wearing a soft, gentle hug all day long," a reviewer raves. "They are of excellent quality and they hold up well to cold water wash (in a garment bag), air drying, and light ironing. I expect them to last many years and to be a staple of my winter wardrobe."

Jennie Liu 100% Pure Cashmere Crew Neck Sweater, $, available at Amazon

Madewell Plus (Re)sponsible Cashmere Relaxed Sweater


The Best Responsibly-Sourced Cashmere Sweater

The Hype: 4.2 out of 5 stars; 10 reviews on Madewell.com

Sustainable, soft, and a staple. This boxy-fit sweater does it all.

"I love this sweater," writes one reviewer. "It fits TTS. I haven’t had it laundered yet, so I can’t speak to that but I have worn it a handful of times. I love the style overall and the weight of the material is light but substantial. I’ve received compliments every time I’ve worn it."

Madewell Plus (Re)sponsible Cashmere Relaxed Sweater, $, available at Madewell

Free People Paloma Cashmere Cardi


The Best Collared Cashmere Cardi

The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 20 reviews on FreePeople.com

The options are endless with this versatile cardigan. Wear it solo as a top or use it to layer in the colder months.

"I received my sweater today and I immediately put it on. I didn’t find it itchy at all. I love the fit. I purchased a large. I usually wear a medium but wanted the sweater to flow over my tummy. I would love to purchase in other colors."

Free People Paloma Cashmere Cardi, $, available at Free People

J.Crew Cashmere Classic-Fit Crewneck Sweater


The Best Classic Cashmere Crewneck

The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars; 220 reviews on JCrew.com

Is there anything more classic than a perfectly tailored crewneck sweater? J.Crew has updated its previous cashmere crewneck style with a slightly relaxed fit. Did we mention it also comes in 16(!) colors?

"This classic cut cashmere sweater fits much more flattering than the slim fit in previous years. I love my cashmere slightly oversized and this sweater does the trick," explains a reviewer. "With that said, it is true to size. But, if you want to feel extra cozy, size up! I will be buying more colors soon!"

J.Crew Cashmere Classic-Fit Crewneck Sweater, $, available at J.Crew

Nap Loungewear Chunky Oversized Crew Sweater


The Best Oversized Cashmere Sweater

The Hype: 4.9 out of 5 stars; 246 reviews on Naploungewear.com

Just look at the super wide, boxy silhouette of this cashmere sweater! If getting swathed by cashmere goodness is your top priority, let this one envelop you in ultimate softness.

"Excellent quality. It's warm, but not overly thick and hot. I love the cashmere sweater," writes a reviewer.

Nap Loungewear Chunky Oversized Crew Sweater, $, available at Nap Loungewear

Mott & Bow Cashmere Oversized V-Neck Willow


The Best V-Neck Cashmere Sweater

Mott & Bow offers a few cashmere sweater styles, but this slightly cropped V-neck sweater just edges out the crew neck for its easy, over-the-head pullover fit and wear.

The Hype: 4.25 out of 5 stars and 21 reviews on mottandbow.com

What Cozy Seekers Are Saying: "Like the cut of this versatile cashmere V-neck. When it first arrived I put it on and didn’t want to take it off cuz it was so soft and comfortable. Not too thin or thick. Wear alone or under a jacket. Like where the V hits on my chest."

Mott & Bow Cashmere Oversized V-Neck Willow, $, available at Mott & Bow

Nap Cashmere Hooded Sweater


The Best Hooded Cashmere Sweater

The Hype: 4.83 out of 5 stars; 359 reviews on Naploungewear.com

Just look at the relaxed fit of this cashmere sweater, perfect for lazy days. The attached hood and softness of the yarn that comes from cashmere goats just scream cozy!

"It’s so soft and comfy! It’s a bit of an oversized fit but that’s what I love so much about it. It’s extremely soft, fits perfectly, and is very comfy," writes a reviewer.

Nap Loungewear Cashmere Hooded Sweater, $, available at Nap Loungewear

Free People Skye Cashmere Pullover


The Best Sleeveless Cashmere Sweater

If you're down with the sweater vest trend, but want to specifically invest in a lux cashmere style, this top-rated pullover from Free People is worth a look.

The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars and 12 reviews on freepeople.com

What Cozy Seekers Are Saying: "A delicious, sophisticated hug! I have come to love cashmere for its lightness and incredible warmth... as I am often chilled. This piece, though sleeveless, is like getting a beautiful hug when I slip it on. The red is vibrant, and the material is perfect for wearing alone or over a blouse/turtleneck. Dressy, classy, and fun! There is ample room and it flows and settles nicely. I ordered an XS and it was billowy and chic! LOVE IT!"

Free People Skye Cashmere Pullover, $, available at Free People

Cozy Earth Women's Quintessential Cashmere Cardigan


The Best Sophisticated Cashmere Cardigan Sweater

The Hype: 5 out of 5 stars; 2 reviews on CozyEarth.com

We wouldn't blame you if you took a double take after seeing this elegant cashmere cardigan from Cozy Earth. The beloved luxury bedding and loungewear brand has returned with a new product line: Quintessential Cashmere, which includes this 100% cashmere cardi. Everything from the polished tortoise shell buttons to the impeccable, just-perfectly oversized fit to ribbing detail throughout makes it a must-have piece.

"Cozy Earth's Quintessential Cashmere Cardigan is definitely on par with any other designer brand. There is a massive difference between a $50 dollar cashmere sweater and a $600 cashmere sweater. You deserve to know the difference," raves a reviewer. "You can feel the quality as soon as you take it out of the package. It's such a beautiful piece," another exclaims. 

Cozy Earth Women's Quintessential Cashmere Cardigan, $, available at Cozy Earth

Madewell (Re)sourced Cashmere Ribbed Mockneck Pullover Sweater


The Best Recycled Cashmere Sweater

This comfy ribbed sweater is made from Madewell's Do Well materials, which includes 70% recycled cashmere and 30% recycled wool. So, while this isn't a hundo cashmere, you can still feel fuzzy-good that this sweater's kinder to the environment.

The Hype:
4.8 out of 5 stars and 14 reviews on madewell.com

What Cozy Seekers Are Saying: "I ordered this in a size up to have an oversized/slouchy feel, and it's perfect! I would definitely say it's true to size if you're going for a less slouchy look though. The color is exquisite, like the perfect taupe/oatmeal/cream color mix. I am six months pregnant and feel like this sweater, even with the slight crop, will be something I'll be able to wear throughout my whole pregnancy. Can't wait to pair it with some cute black jeans and a jean jacket!"

Madewell (Re)sourced Cashmere Ribbed Mockneck Pullover Sweater, $, available at Madewell

lululemon Cashlu Sweater Wrap


The Best Machine Washable Cashmere Sweater

While this isn't a 100% cashmere sweater (you knew there had to be a catch with the "machine washable" part), this long cardigan, cashmere-blend knit from lululemon is still soft enough for getting cozy with and warm enough for post-workout layering.

The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars and 86 reviews on lululemon.com

What Cozy Seekers Are Saying: "If you're looking for the perfect Sweater, look no further!!! The Cashlu™️ Sweater Wrap is the perfect addition to your Fall/Winter wardrobe. This cozy wrap sweater is perfect for running to class or just running errands. It's soft, cozy, providing a little warmth but cool enough for those who tend to run more warm. As a pilates instructor, I'm constantly jumping on and off the equipment to demonstrate and this wrap is perfect from throwing on & off quickly. Plus, who the deep pockets are great for carrying my phone & lip gloss. I hope Lulu makes this more colors because this is my new staple!"

Lululemon Cashlu Sweater Wrap, $, available at Lululemon

Everlane The Belgian-Waffle Pocket Pullover


The Best Cashmere With Pockets

Everything's better with pockets and this recycled cashmere style from Everlane is no exception. Bonus points for the waffle-knit texture, blouson sleeves, and slightly cropped relaxed cut.

The Hype: 4.58 out of 5 stars and 50 reviews on everlane.com

What Cozy Seekers Are Saying: "This sweater was a little out of my price range but I'm glad I splurged and got it. This sweater is everything. So soft, such a cute cropped cut, and POCKETS! which make everything cute. Get this sweater. I wear anywhere between an XS and an M in Everlane but got this in a small and it fits perfect."

Everlane The Belgian-Waffle Pocket Pullover, $, available at Everlane

Athleta Aspen Turtleneck Sweater


The Best Cashmere Turtleneck

There may be nothing that'll keep you warmer than a thick cashmere sweater with a chunky turtleneck.

The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars and 137 reviews on athleta.com

What Cozy Seekers Are Saying: "Love this sweater. Because of the length, it is flattering, and it is also cozy. Both the brown and the pink were very pretty. I had a hard time deciding which one to get. I ended up choosing the brown."

Athleta Wool Cashmere Aspen Turtleneck Sweater, $, available at Athleta

Wilfred Jara Luxe Cashmere Sweater


The Best Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater

The Hype: 5 out of 5 stars; 49 reviews on Aritzia.com

There may be nothing that'll keep you warmer than a slouchy cashmere sweater with a cozy turtleneck. The timeless piece looks so luxurious that you can simply style it with a pair of your favorite jeans or trousers.

"This should be in everyone’s wardrobe! The cut is perfect and the sweater is so soft," writes a reviewer. "I’m normally an XS but from experience cashmere stretches, so I went with the XXS. The boxy fit is still great for a light tuck into pants or to hang untucked."

Wilfred Jara Luxe Cashmere Sweater, $, available at Aritzia

Everlane The Cashmere Stroopwafel Turtleneck


The Best Lounge-At-Home Cashmere Sweater

The Hype: 4.27 out of 5 stars; 318 reviews on Everlane.com

Envision a chilly, windy day. You're bundled up next to the fireplace with a book in hand and a warm drink. Everlane's waffle knit sweater encases you in its warm, relaxed-fit sweater. Sounds too good to be true, right? So go ahead and let the daydream come to life.

"The sweater is beautifully soft and great as the nights are getting older," writes a reviewer. "It has great subtle details and I appreciate the extra length in the back."

Everlane The Cashmere Stroopwafel Turtleneck, $, available at Everlane

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Dazzle All Night Long In A Head-Turning Black-Tie Wedding Guest Dress

When a wedding invitation says "black tie," the couple is throwing the gauntlet: They want their loved ones to dress to impress in a big way. These lavish affairs call for luxurious floor-length gowns and tuxes. Think rich fabrics — satin, silk, chiffon, and tulle — in styles reminiscent of the red carpet or a gala. In other words, it's an adult excuse to bring out your inner princess. Which can sound fun — but also stressful. While many of us may have a cocktail dress or three knocking around in our closet, it's rarer to find a ball gown just waiting to be dusted off for your next black tie event.

But don't panic; buying a new black tie wedding guest dress doesn't have to be intimidating — or even widely expensive. If you're stressed about what to wear to an upcoming black-tie wedding (or even where to look) we're here to help with a roundup of the best black-tie wedding guest dresses starting at under $100.

We've scoured the internet for floor-sweeping gowns from retailers like Saks Fifth AvenueNordstromAnthropologie, and Revolve. Find modern black tie dresses in luxe gemstone hues and black-tie-optional ones in striking abstract patterns, along with a couple of dreamy silhouettes. There are also several chic, timeless all-black gowns for a classic look. All that's left is for you to grab your wedding essentialsspritz your favorite perfume, and step into your most comfortable party shoes for the night. Get ready to feel and look your very best — our stunning picks will surely grant you a spot on the best-dressed list.  

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

For more can't-miss shopping stories delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our Most Wanted newsletter.

Modern Black Tie Wedding Guest Dresses


Unless you're a minimalist who lives in black and navy, don't feel like you have to constrict yourself to dark-hued numbers. Modern takes on black tie often feature the same full-length gowns, just in bolder colors and statement-making fashions. Glow in radiant hues such as emerald green and icy blue, with silhouettes that bring the perfect amount of drama and elegance without overshadowing the bride.

Shop Alice + Olivia At Nordstrom Rack

Alice + Olivia Samia Halter Neck Fishtail Gown, $, available at Nordstrom Rack
Shop Alamour The Label

Alamour The Label Jennifer — Emerald, $, available at Alamour The Label
Shop Reformation

Reformation Annabelle Silk Dress Es, $, available at Reformation
Shop Norma Kamali At Saks Fifth Avenue

Norma Kamali Bias-Cut Satin Halter Gown, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue
Shop BHLDN at Anthropologie

BHLDN Ruby Twist Halter Satin Gown, $, available at Anthropologie

Black Tie Optional Wedding Guest Dresses


"Black tie optional" may bring on more confusion than clarity, but it typically indicates that guests can opt for formal or black tie attire and that the wedding party will be in black tie. To straddle the two attires, a longer dress (rather than a gown) is always a good option. Gowns that have embellishments and unexpected silhouettes can also be a perfect in-between option that feels striking but not overdressed.

Shop Lulus

Lulus Moriah Sage Green Satin Wrap Maxi Dress, $, available at Lulus
Shop Sachin & Babi

Sachin + Babi Kayla Gown - Pastel Sunset Hydrangea, $, available at Sachin & Babi
Shop Atsu At Anthropologie

Atsu Bow Dress, $, available at Anthropologie
Shop Banana Republic

Banana Republic Ella Maxi Dress, $, available at Banana Republic
Shop Marchesa Notte At Verishop

Marchesa Notte Briar Rose Gown, $, available at Verishop
Shop Maya Plus At ASOS

Maya Plus One Shoulder Sequin Maxi Dress, $, available at ASOS
Shop Lauren at Ralph Lauren

Lauren Ralph Lauren Floral Georgette One-Shoulder Gown, $, available at Ralph Lauren
Shop Karen Millen

Karen Millen Crystal Embellished Halter Woven Maxi Dress, $, available at KAREN MILLEN
Shop Vince Camuto

Vince Camuto Off-The-Shoulder Gown, $, available at Vince Camuto

Classic Black Tie Wedding Guest Dresses


Exude old-school Hollywood glamour in a classy black gown with a 2023 twist. We've chosen numbers with subtle details that shine: shimmering sequins, balloon sleeves with delicate cinched wrists, and flared hems.

Shop Birdy Grey

Birdy Grey Mia Convertible Dress, $, available at Birdy Grey
Shop NBD At Revolve
Shop JJ's House

JJ's House A-Line V-Neck Asymmetrical Satin Evening Dress, $, available at JJ's House
Shop Mac Duggal at Saks Fifth Avenue

Mac Duggal Fabulouss Sequin One Shoulder Side Cutout Gown, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue
Shop Adrianna Papell at Bloomingdale's

Adrianna Papell Illusion Mermaid Gown, $, available at Bloomingdale's
Shop Eloquii

Eloquii Satin Maxi Dress, $, available at Eloquii

Shop ASTR The Label At Nordstrom Rack

ASTR The Label Farida Midi Slipdress, $, available at Nordstrom Rack
Shop Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch Giselle Pleated Cutout Maxi Dress, $, available at Abercrombie
Shop Ramy Brook

Ramy Brook Ashlyne Plunging Maxi Dress, $, available at Ramy Brook
Shop & Other Stories

& Other Stories V-Neck Wrap Dress, $, available at & Other Stories
Shop Free People

Free People Look Into The Sun Gown, $, available at Free People
Shop Norma Kamali at Revolve

Norma Kamali Diana Gown, $, available at Revolve
Shop Eliza J At Nordstrom

Eliza J. Embellished High/Low Chiffon Dress, $, available at Nordstrom
Shop Hill House Home

Hill House Home The Lace Ellie Nap Dress, $, available at Hill House Home
Shop Asos Edition Curve At Asos

ASOS Edition Curve Long Sleeve Tie Waist Midi Dress In Blurred Floral Prin, $, available at ASOS
Shop Lulus

Lulus Broadway Show Navy Blue High-Low Maxi Dress, $, available at Lulus
Shop Bronx and Banco at Bergdorf Goodman

Bronx and Banco Florence Strapless A-Line Bustier Gown, $, available at Bergdorf Goodman
Shop Reformation

Reformation Veria Silk Dress, $, available at Reformation
Shop Farm Rio

Farm Rio Red Guipure Cut Out Midi Dress, $, available at Farm Rio
Shop Karen Millen

Karen Millen Slinky Knit Mirrored Jacquard Geo Chain Strap Maxi Dres, $, available at KAREN MILLEN
Shop Michael Lo Sordo at Net-A-Porter

Michael Lo Sordo Crystal-Embellished Silk-Satin Gown, $, available at Net-A-Porter

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