Finding the perfect formal ensemble for special events is enough pressure to leave us sweating with a full floor-drobe and just about to cancel our RSVP.
How to stick to a dress code? What colours, shapes and styles are guaranteed to have us crowned diamond of the season and how do we do it all without spending an entire paycheck…
But have no fear, because we are here to not only answer all of your burning formalwear queries but also to present you with our top picks of the season.
Whether you’re after the perfect gown for an upcoming formal, want to be the best-dressed wedding guest, or are looking for something for an array of galas, charity events, and other occasions, we’ve scouted out the best of the best.
Read on to find our favourite formal dresses from The Iconic that suit any formal event, sense of style, body shape and budget – less stress, more glamour.
2024’s TOP FORMAL DRESSES
- SNDYS Calissa Maxi Dress in Black, $104.24 (usually $139), The Iconic (here’s why)
- Minima Esenciales Karis Drop Waist Maxi Dress, $300, The Iconic (here’s why)
- Maiori Gathered Bubble Midi Dress, $440, The Iconic (here’s why)
The best formal dresses from The Iconic 2024
01
SNDYS Calissa Maxi Dress in Black
$104.24 (usually $139) at The Iconic
Simple and classy, this black maxi dress makes for a timeless and versatile formal dress that can be worn for every occasion. Add a pop of colour with some metallic accessories or go bigger and bolder with some bright hues.
Sizes: XXS to XXL | Colours: Black, Khaki, White, Choc, Burgundy, Baby Pink, Red and Baby Blue | Materials: 100 per cent Polyester
Key features:
- Asymmetrical neckline
- Invisible zip entry
- Draped bodice
02
Minima Esenciales Karis Drop Waist Maxi Dress
$300 at The Iconic
Exuding effortless elegance, this drop-waist maxi dress brings a touch of vintage charm to your next event, a true Fashion Girl ‘fit.
Sizes: 6 to 16 | Colours: Black Neutral, and Cream & Olive | Materials: Bodice Main – 93 per cent polyester and 7 per cent elastane; Skirt Main – 100 per cent viscose
Key features:
- Two-tone design
- Strapless neckline
- Drop waist
- Back zip closure
03
Shona Joy Maiori Gathered Bubble Midi Dress
$440 at The Iconic
Play around with silhouettes and colour for your next formal event with this adorable flouncy midi dress that provides movement and texture to create a unique ensemble.
Sizes: 6 to 16 | Colours: Coral | Materials: 100 per cent Organic Cotton
Key features:
- Sweetheart neckline
- Adjustable tie straps
- Ruched cup detail
- Dropped curved waistline
- Invisible centre back zip
04
Bardot Verona Sequin Maxi Dress in Burgundy
$229.99 at The Iconic
Sometimes you just want to sparkle and shine. In which case cast your eyes upon this sequin maxi from Bardot that puts the glam in glamour.
Sizes: 12 to 24 | Colours: Burgundy, Dark Choco, Nude and Purple | Materials: 88 per cent polyester and 12 per cent elastane
Key features:
- Front keyhole with satin tie
- Long fitted sleeves
- A-line skirt
05
Runaway The Label Adriana Maxi Dress in Green
$189 at The Iconic
Dazzling the dance floor, this figure-flattering silhouette is as fun as it is flirty. Plus, with a touch of shimmer spread throughout, you will be glistening all night long.
Sizes: XXS to XL | Colours: Black and Green | Materials: 95 per cent Viscose and 5 per cent Polyester
Key features:
- Low back
- High neckline
- Micro sequins for a soft shimmer
- Unlined with stretch
06
ids Hands Are Tied Dress in Lemon Sorbet
$109.95 at The Iconic
Featuring what we have come to know as ‘Ballet core’, ids certainly have our hands tied with this zesty rendition. With spritz in hand, we can see you fashioning this one around the next cocktail party.
Sizes: 6 to 18 | Colours: Olive, Black, Sage, and Lemon Sorbet | Materials: 98 per cent Polyester and 2 per cent Spandex
Key features:
- Four material crafted bows
- Simple spaghetti strap design
- V-neckline
07
City Chic Lara Dress in Deep Blue
$83.97 (usually $159.95) at The Iconic
Want to make your curves unmissable? This sultry midi is guaranteed to turn heads thanks to the figure-hugging shape and side ruches that further accentuate the waist and hips to create a sexy yet elegant dress.
Sizes: 12 to 24 | Colours: Black and Deep Blue | Materials: 88 per cent Polyester and 12 per cent Elastane
Key features:
- One shoulder neckline
- Fitted bodice to hemline gathering
- Asymmetrical hemline
- Stretch luxe fabrication
08
AERE Satin Bias Cut Strapless Dress in Ainsley Print
$170 at The Iconic
Feminine and flirty, this strapless beauty is perfectly fitting for an array of formal events you have on your social calendar this year.
Sizes: 6 to 18 | Colours: Ainsley Print | Materials: 75 per cent Lenzing Ecovero Viscose and 25 per cent Viscose
Key features:
- Back zip fastening
- Bias cut
- Strapless design
What are the rules for formal wear?
It all comes down to what the event is and the dress code provided. Regardless of the finer details you’re after a mid or maxi-length dress that isn’t sheer and has an elegant look to it. Make sure whatever it is your wearing is well tailored, clean and put together and heels or elegant flats are a good shoe option.
If the invite specifies black or white tie you’ll want to look for something floor-length and may have to add things like gloves or an updo.
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