The Perfect Dresses for A Black-Tie Holiday

The holidays are filled with so many opportunities to play dress up. Whether you're invited to a winter wedding or have a less formal event to attend this season, you may be wondering what are appropriate dresses for a black tie event. As a fashion editor, I get that question the most when it comes to event style guides.

Other black tie events during the holidays could include a ballet, a gala event, a ball, or a fancy New Year's Eve party. Some of these events are black tie, and will specify on the invite. Those events call for a floor-length gown, while a black tie optional event simply requires a short cocktail dress. Try one of these gorgeous short prom dresses for something fit for the holidays.

A fun black-tie-optional New Year's Eve party, for example, is the perfect opportunity to wear a sequin mini dress. Pair it with high heel sandals and statement earrings.

One of the most common black tie events for the holidays includes a trip to the theater or ballet. Depending on which city you live in and which venue you go to, you may want to wear a long dress. But for attending The Nutcracker in Tulsa, as I plan to, all you need is a simple black cocktail dress and some pretty accessories. Something a bit more casual, like this A-line Scoop Neck Taffeta mini dress (available in black) is a versatile piece you can dress down for the theater with dressy flats; and dress up for a more formal event with statement jewelry, tights, and pumps. That particular dress, also available in red, would be perfect for family photos if you plan to do a dressy holiday photo shoot.

A black-tie winter wedding, holiday ball, or a gala event at a museum, for instance, are all appropriate events for a formal floor-length gown. It's a chance to get dressed up and to really go for it. Try something with sequins or jeweled accents, a luxurious satin or velvet fabric, or something in a rich jewel tone. Red is of course an obvious choice for a holiday gown, but it's also a great time for other rich shades, like a saphire blue or emerald green. Whichever color you go with, add a bit of drama with an interesting silhouette. For instance, instead of the popular strapless A-line gown, go with a one-shoulder long sleeve gown or an off-the-shoulder ball gown.

Whichever kind of dress you choose for a black tie event, take full advantage of the holidays as a time to shine.

This post is sponsored in part by Landybridal