Modest And Stylish Formal Gowns

Every year, I set out to find one or two formal dresses for the annual fundraisers that my husband and I attend. And every year, I struggle to find modest gowns that aren’t frumpy. I find plenty of strapless, backless, high-slit styles that feel too young and revealing for me. Or I find glittery, jersey, long-sleeved styles with too many gathers and bows! So this year, I shopped online and here’s what I found (under $500)….

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Beaded Gowns

I bought this Beaded Mesh Midi Gown at Nordstrom. I love that it has sheer cap sleeves, which offer coverage without looking like you want to hide your arms. The bedding is beautiful but not heavy. At 5’4″, it is a full-length dress on me. The bodice is a little too long on me, but I’m thinking that no one else will notice but me! And I love that it has a feel of the 1920s beaded, not-too-clingy dress.

Pissaro Nights has a few other beaded mesh gowns that are similar, including Plus sizes:

Heavy Crepe Dresses

My local store has a selection of formal gowns meant for women 40+ made in lightweight jersey (a thin, stretchy fabric). Most of them are gathered in the middle, which perplexes me, as the last thing I want is attention on my not-so-flat belly. So, I often look for gowns made in crepe, which is a heavier fabric that skims the body rather than clinging to it.

Satin Dresses

Satin is a beautiful fabric for formal events, but it can be tricky to find the right style. A lightweight satin that lacks structure can be clingy and look more like a maxi dress. And a heavy satin is often used for strapless prom-style ball gowns.

Here are a few options that work for those of us who are 40+ and like a modest style of gown. Choose a floral print to stand out, or a black gown that you can wear with different accessories.

Lace & Embellished Dresses

Lace and embellished dresses allow you to wear a simple shape but still look formal. I have this blue lace gown that I’ve worn to several events – it always feels elegant and stylish. My cream dress is a simple cap sleeve fit-and-flare style, but the soutache embellishments make it a formal dress. Mine is sold out, but the ones below are similar and currently available:

Chiffon Dresses

If you’re looking for something lightweight that drapes beautifully, look for a chiffon or georgette dress. Both are sheer materials, but chiffon is light and smooth, whereas georgette is slightly heavier and crinkled. If the dress is under $500, it’s likely to be polyester; silk, chiffon, and georgette dresses are more expensive.

Save this post for the next time you have a formal event and want something modest but stylish!

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