Everyone knows that black is a safe color choice when it comes to formal wear, which is why it’s a go-to bridesmaid dress color for many brides. You can’t go wrong with black, and it tops our list for a few obvious reasons. When you’re shopping for a large group, it can be tricky to find something everyone likes, but choosing black as the color makes it a little bit easier on everyone.
Black is extremely figure flattering, and many of the simple silhouettes on this list hide problem areas and accentuate the waist. Your bridesmaids will feel their best, and your photos will look awesome. If you choose a black dress, chances are it can actually be worn again by your bridesmaids to another formal event down the road. They’ll feel better forking over the cash if the dress isn’t meant to be a one-time wear. Black looks great on just about every skin tone and it’s easy to accessorize, serving as a neutral canvas.
Need more convincing? Just shop the list of gorgeous gowns below.
1. Ever Pretty Sleeveless V-Neck Maxi Dress
Ever Pretty
If you’ve been in several weddings, then you know how quickly costs can add up. Between travel expenses, attire, and gifts, being a bridesmaid is not cheap. This dress helps to keep costs down with a reasonable price tag and is still a high quality gorgeous gown, so you don’t have to feel like you’re making sacrifices. The dress features a modest v-neck, a long chiffon gown, and a banded waist that helps to slim. If this design isn’t quite right, check out these other classic bridesmaid styles from Ever Pretty.
Price: $24.99 – $39.99 depending on size
Buy this black bridesmaid dress here.
2. Adrianna Papell Long Beaded Blouson Gown
Don’t miss the opportunity to let your bridesmaid sparkle and shine with this gorgeous floor length gown. If you’re planning a formal black tie affair, we especially love this option, as it’s a bit more special than a simple black dress. The dress has an allover art deco-inspired beading pattern, with a blouson bodice that falls away from the body just slightly. Complete the look with some strappy gold heels – a popular color combination.
Price: $182 – $260 depending on size
Buy this black bridesmaid dress here.
3. Donna Morgan Quinn Short Strapless Lace Dress
Donna Morgan
Skip the long gown for something a bit sleeker and tailored looking like this short black bridesmaid dress. It has simple lines and hits the mark for a classic but modern little black dress. It’s made with high quality lace and has an elasticized hook inside that will help to keep the strapless neckline in place. The dress is available from sizes 0 – 18 plus, accommodating a large range of shapes. If you need to purchase a strapless bra, don’t miss our post on the best wedding undergarments for all shapes and sizes.
Price: $40.19 – $198 depending on size
Buy this black bridesmaid dress here.
4. HALSTON HERITAGE Women’s Cap-Sleeve Cocktail Dress
HALSTON HERITAGE
Although this dress is the most expensive on this list, it’s for good reason. It’s sold out in most sizes in almost all department stores due to the high quality and popularity of this particular style, making Amazon one of the only places you can still purchase it in a slew of sizes. It’s currently available in sizes 0-12 and features a structured flared skirt, a tailored bodice, and puffed cap sleeves. If you’re a fan of this fuller skirt but this dress is above your price point, check out some similar options from top brands, all under $100.
Price: $253.33 – $445 depending on size
Buy this black bridesmaid dress here.
5. ERIN erin fetherston Women’s Isabelle Strapless Evening Gown
ERIN erin fetherston
This sleek and simple gown can be worn either with straps or without depending on your preference. The dress has tight rouching throughout the bodice, which end at the natural waist for a slimming effect. The straight neckline and skirt give it a sleek and tailored look, even though it’s made from soft and breathable chiffon fabric. This option transcends all seasons and is something your bridesmaids will certainly be able to wear again after the big day. If you prefer a short bridesmaid dress, check out this gorgeous option from the same designer.
Price: $275
Buy this black bridesmaid dress here.
6. BCBGMax Azria Women’s Jamille Woven Evening Gown
BCBGMax Azria
Subtle unique details can really make a gown stand out among the rest. This figure flattering dress cinches at the waist, enhancing everyone’s figure and features a beautiful pleated sweetheart bodice. The one shoulder cutout is simple and different. If you’re not sure if this look is right for everyone, we’re seeing many bridal parties in coordinating dresses, all with the same color but a different style. If you’re looking to go that route, buying from the same designer is one way to achieve some consistency with color and fabric. Browse some alternative options from BCBG including this alternative one shoulder dress, this simple strapless gown, or this sleek and simple black gown with a uniquely textured back.
Price: $105.64 – $338 depending on size
Buy this black bridesmaid dress here.
7. Donna Morgan Women’s Jessie Short Chiffon Dress
Donna Morgan
Donna Morgan is one of our favorite bridesmaid dress designers. The designs are all classic bridesmaid styles that flatter all shapes, come in a plethora of colors and sizes, and are reasonable in cost. The above points hit the main marks on most bridesmaid check lists, and makes this dress an easy pick. The sleeveless silk chiffon dress with has a gorgeous twisted waistband, a v-neckline (mimicked in the back), and if you have any plus size brides, it can be purchased in plus sizing here. Don’t miss these other highly rated styles from Donna Morgan.
Price: $28.35 – $198 depending on size
Buy this black bridesmaid dress here.
8. Ever Pretty One Shoulder Short Bridesmaid Dress
Ever Pretty
If you have your heart set on a dress from a top designer, you might want to check out the selection from Every Pretty before you hit “purchase”. Inspired by many high-end designers, the looks from this online bridal shop are almost identical, but at a fraction of the cost. Use the sizing chart in the images to find the correct size based on your measurements. If you’re not a fan of the one shoulder design, you can opt for this style with a sweetheart neckline, or one of these alternative short black dresses from Ever Pretty.
Price: $24.99 – $35.99 depending on size
Buy this black bridesmaid dress here.
9. Miusol Women’s Floral Lace Halter Bridesmaid Dress
Miusol
Don’t let the low price tag on this gown dissuade you. With hundreds of five star reviews, it’s one of the most popular selections, especially for formal affairs. If you scroll through the customer images you can see this dress on women in every shape and size, and they all look quite stunning. The dress has a sexy scoop neck, a cutout back, and an illusion neckline. Use the sizing chart for a perfect all around fit. Aside from a quick and inexpensive trim to the hem (depending on your height), this dress will fit like a glove.
Price: $36.99 (38 percent off MSRP)
Buy this black bridesmaid dress here.
10. JS Boutique Women’s Matte Jersey Chiffon Gown
JS Boutique
If you’re a fan of black but you’re worried that the look might be boring, choose a black gown with some subtle embellishments to keep the look fresh and interesting. This dress is available in sizes 2-14 and has delicate beading along the neckline and banding at the waist. The details are slimming, sophisticated, and subtle for a look that won’t overwhelm but will still be more special than a plain black dress. Looking for a show stopper? Don’t miss this awesome gown from JS Boutique for a unique spin on a black bridesmaid dress.
Price: $98.56 – $360 depending on size
Buy this black bridesmaid dress here.