PARTY QUEEN / Aug 17, 2023
WHAT TO WEAR TO A GALA: THE MOST GLAMOROUS GOWNS FOR THE OCCASION
Fancy events such as galas don't come around too often, so for many of us who’ve never been to one, the first question that probably comes to mind is: "What do I wear to a gala?"
We’re here to break down the dress code and introduce you to six stunning outfits that will turn you into a gala fashion icon.
What Is a Gala and What Do You Wear to One?
A gala is a formal social event that often features live entertainment and a dinner. They’re typically held to celebrate a particular milestone, honor an important person, support a cause, or raise funds for a charity.
Galas are usually evening affairs with a black-tie dress code, which means guests are expected to get all dressed up. Although black-tie attire can include shorter styles like cocktail dresses, galas tend to favor floor-length gowns.
What to Wear to a Gala: 6 Outfit Ideas for Gala Night
Here are 6 outfit ideas for a gala night that check off all the boxes for a formal affair.
1. Silver Trumpet Dress with Beaded Fringes and Sequins
Metallics like silver and gold are always great go-tos for gala attire. These shades are often associated with wealth and luxury, making them perfect for such a fancy occasion.
To make your metallic attire even more striking, we recommend choosing a dress with texture. Embellishments like beads and sequins add a unique touch to your gala look and ensure you shine with every step.
Get the Look: GL3593 - Beaded V-Neck Dress with Illusion Neckline and Off-Shoulder Straps
Don’t be afraid to layer on the details! Glitter, sequins, beads, or all three at the same time — why not? As you can see here, they look great together! Don't be afraid to go all out because a gala is an event when it's not only allowed, but encouraged. And if the dress code says white-tie? Even more reason to bring the drama.
2. Embroidered V-Neck Dress with 3/4 Sleeves
Wondering what to wear to a gala? Jewel tones are a forever favorite for gala attire. Gem tones like emerald, sapphire, and ruby red exude luxury and timeless elegance, making them perfect for formal evening affairs.
Get the Look: GL3573 - Embellished Mesh Dress with Illusion Neckline and 3/4 Sleeves
Attending a charity concert or fundraiser with VIPs? Arrive in style in this next outfit idea for gala night. With its elegant long sleeves, this dress is perfect for galas where a more refined, conservative touch is appreciated. And that flattering A-line cut is as timeless as ever — guaranteed to earn you approving nods from every guest.
3. Fitted Gold Dress with Sweetheart Neckline and Cape Sleeves
If you want to embrace your femininity, consider gowns with sweetheart necklines, long slits, or form-fitting silhouettes. These styles are fashionable, flattering, and a tasteful way to show off what your momma gave you. Plus, they’re guaranteed to have people swooning all evening long!
Get the Look:GL3583 - Beaded Bodycon Dress with Sweetheart Neckline and Mesh Cape Sleeves
To dial up the drama, look for dresses with flowy cape sleeves. After all, when else can you rock such regal details? There are even some styles that come with detachable layers, giving you the option to switch up your look whenever you want.
4. Black A-Line Mesh Dress with Feather Embellishments
If you're struggling to figure out what to wear to a gala, remember: black is always a good idea! It's timeless, chic, and so easy to style—a true triple threat! Its versatility also means you can re-wear it to countless formal affairs, from holiday celebrations to work parties.
Get the Look: GL3138 - Embroidery Sheer Front Mesh A-line Dress w/ Feather Embellishment
We love this black mesh dress because it's oh-so elegant. The feathered straight-across neckline and off-the-shoulder sleeves create a soft, feminine look. The embroidered bodice adds just the right amount of sparkle. And the mesh A-line skirt drapes beautifully over the legs and hips. No matter what your body type is, it's bound to flatter!
5. Red Satin A-line Dress with Lace-Up Back
When choosing what to wear to a gala, keep in mind that your choice of fabric can make or break your gala outfit. Some fabrics just exude an air of high-class style — think lace and velvet — while others, like linen, lean too casual for the occasion.
Right now, satin is having a major moment in women’s formal wear, from weddings to the red carpet. Why? It’s simple and timeless, yet its lustrous texture effortlessly exudes luxury.
Get the Look: GL3039 - Illusion Sweetheart Neckline Satin A-line Dress w/ Lace-up Back
Here, paired with the red color and mermaid silhouette, the satin creates a sultry look. If you're ready to dial up the spice, this gala look is for you. (Don't hesitate to complete this look with a red lip!)
6. Magenta Dress with Bejeweled Bodice and Pleated Skirt
It's certainly acceptable to wear bold and trendy colors to a gala. Electric blue, neon pink, or fiery red — you name it! You can even draw inspiration from popular aesthetics to give your look a fresh, modern twist. Take this next outfit idea for gala night, for example.
Channeling the chrome or “chrome core” aesthetic, this magenta dress is ultra-sleek with its metallic-like fabric. Its bejeweled bodice blends futuristic edge with nostalgic, Y2K glam to perfectly complement the chrome vibe.
Get the Look: GL3597 - V-Neck Jersey Dress with Bejeweled Bodice and Pleated Skirt
But remember, your overall look must still meet the standard gala dinner dress code for female guests. That means steering clear of styles that are too avant-garde (like Met Gala-level glam) or overly revealing for the occasion. No matter how trendy your look is, sticking to the dress code is the key to earning a stamp of approval from any style gurus in attendance!
More Gala Outfit Ideas Below!
By now, you likely have a better idea of what to wear to a gala. Maybe one of our outfit ideas caught your eye, or perhaps you'd still like to explore more fabulous options. In that case, check out our full collection of gala attire. But just a heads-up — choosing might be the hardest part with so many stunning designs!
Or, if you'd still like to peruse your options, take a look at the blogs below.
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