Formal events are a great excuse to dress to the nines. Whether it’s a wedding, a fancy party, or school formal, you get to dress up and feel fabulous for a night. But since most of us don’t just have a ballgown lying around, there is one major problem: where do you find the right dress?
You have a few options, you could head to your nearest shopping mall or hit up your favourite online shops, but there’s no guarantee you’re going to find something you like Or you could always go for a formal dress hire and just rent out a designer dress for a hundred dollars or so. But then you can’t keep the dress, and you’ll be back in the same position the next time you have an event.
So if you’re a Sydney-sider looking for “formal dress boutiques near me”, then consider yourself lucky. We checked out dozens of different stores to bring you the top 10 formal dress shops in Sydney.
RELATED: 10 of the Best Shops for Bridesmaid Dresses in Sydney
How To Dress For A Formal Event
But before we get on with our list, we first have to clear something up first. What does “formal” even mean? Formal attire is a kind of dress code reserved for classy events and occasions, like weddings, balls, and the like. It is considered the most strict dress code, which is why it’s also the most intimidating!
However, for women, dressing in formal isn’t as complicated as you think. Fashion is a lot more flexible these days, most floor-length or maxi dresses are usually appropriate. But if you really want to take advantage of the dress code, this formal event the best time to bring out a princess ballgown or elegant evening dresses.
10. Shona Joy
For long formal dresses and cocktail dresses with an Australian twist, homegrown designer Shona Joy has got you covered. Each of her pieces is reminiscent of old ‘60s and ‘70s bohemian glamour, which make them great for both day and night occasions.
9. Alice McCall
Known for her unusual cuts, fun fabrics, and stunning silhouettes, Australian designer Alice McCall is proof that formal doesn’t have to be bland. Express your personality in a metallic gown or a romantic lace midi – the choice is yours!
8. Fame And Partners
Fame and Partners might be better known for their casual summer outfits, but they do pretty chic semi-formal dresses as well. Choose from their line-up of ready-to-wear wedding-guest gowns and evening wear, or get a completely custom dress of your own.
7. The Iconic
You probably already get most of your wardrobe from Australian retail staple The Iconic, but did you know they also have a great selection of formal dresses? Whether you want something fun and flirty or sophisticated and elegant, The Iconic is bound to have the perfect frock for you.
6. Myer
We’d recommend Myers just for their awesome in-house label Miss Shop, but what really makes them a great choice for formalwear shoppers is that they stock hundreds of local and international designers for you to choose from.
5. Bec + Bridge
One of the most well-known fashion houses for everything bridal, bridesmaid, and wedding dress, Bec + Bridge is your best go-to for formal dresses. They offer dozens of different styles, from asymmetrical midi dresses to floor-length off-the-shoulder gowns, in every colour imaginable.
4. David Jones
You can find David Jones all over the country, and that’s a huge testament to its quality and style. The boutique carries beautiful formal pieces from a wide range of names, including luxury designers Valentino and Balmain. But don’t worry, they have affordable dresses as well!
3. White Runway
Don’t want to waste time scrolling through hundreds of different summer or cocktail dresses just to find appropriate wedding wear? Check out White Runway, a fashion boutique that specialises in bridesmaid gowns and evening dresses.
2. Asos
No list of shops – formal or otherwise – would be complete without ASOS. While you’re shopping for your next #OOTD, why not pick up one of their formal dresses as well? We love their extensive plus-size line and two-piece formal co-ords, which has its own section on their website.
1. Zimmermann
Support local and grab a gorgeous gown from Zimmermann, a homegrown ready-to-wear fashion label. The brand is known for its flirty, delicate, and super-feminine pieces. So if you love soft fabrics, flowy silhouettes, and floral prints, Zimmermann is definitely one of the best places in Sydney to get your next formal gown.
Conclusion
From prom dresses to bridesmaid outfits to flower girl dresses, these shops sell some of the most stunning formal dresses in Sydney. So the next time you have a major event coming up, don’t panic! Just check out these shops and you’ll be in good hands.
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