White Formal Dresses

A white formal dress marries elegance and sophistication with a clean, minimalist vibe. The color white is often known for symbolizing new beginnings, as well as purity and innocence, making it a great option for celebrating new chapters, like graduations or weddings (if you’re the bride!), or religious or spiritual ceremonies.

People of all skin and hair undertones can don a white formal dress and look beautiful. Do keep in mind, though, that if you have very fair skin, an ultra-white gown may make you appear washed out on stage or in photos. If you’re concerned about this, try taking some test pictures in your white dress, or opt for an off-white like ivory or cream, or even try a print.

A white formal dress is a super elegant look, no matter what time of year, but tends to evoke spring and summer the most. A white gown can be striking in photos taken against autumn foliage, though, or against a snowy backdrop.

Long White Formal Dresses

Long dresses are the most typical style for formal gowns, as elevated dress codes tend to call for a longer hemline. Long white dresses can be dressed down a bit if you choose a print or have bold pops of color, like neon accessories.

When you’re choosing a white formal dress, you can go with a fitted silhouette for a more modern look or a ball gown for something stunning. Keep in mind that depending on the silhouette, a long white gown may look a little bridal, especially if you’re going for something more dramatic, like a mermaid dress or ball gown.

If you’re heading to an event with lots of dancing, a tea-length dress or a long dress featuring a high slit can make movement easier. Go with flowy fabrics or details that move with you, like fringes, to really be the star of the dance floor.

Short White Formal Dresses

Typically, formal events will call for a long gown, but you may be able to get away with a short white formal dress for the right occasion. Be sure to check with event planners beforehand so you don’t appear underdressed

If you’re hoping to elevate an all-white short dress, look for details like beading (pearls especially add a sense of elevation) and go with a fuller skirt. Full skirts tend to look more formal than a bodycon look, plus they move beautifully with you while you dance!

You can also add accessories like demure jewelry or white gloves to take your short dress look up a notch in formality. Black gloves can also add a dynamic twist while still being formal.

Accessories for a White Formal Dress

Accessorize a white formal dress with a bold pop of color if you want to show your tenacity. Bold jewel tones like royal blue or green add a personal twist to a minimalist look. For something more subtle, choose pastels or very light colors like lilac or baby pink.

Metallics tend to elevate an all-white look; go with gold to invoke a warmer vibe or silver to exude something a bit cooler. Keeping accessories demure, like delicate chains and small clutches, will also bring a sense of elegance to shoes and accessories in metallic hues.

Gloves are a great formal accessory that can dress up a print or add enough contrast to dress down an ultra-formal gown. If your formal event is happening during a time with cooler weather, think about complementary jackets, shawls, or sweaters that match the vibe of your dress so you can make an entrance, even just to coat check.

Events to Wear a White Formal Dress

There are tons of places where you can wear a white formal dress. Events like prom, white tie galas, fundraisers, and evening formal happenings at museums or other places are just a few examples.

If you’re participating in a religious ceremony, like an adult baptism, you may be required to wear a formal white gown. Double-check with dress codes to ensure that you choose a dress that’s appropriate.

Unless specifically told otherwise, it’s not a great idea to wear a white dress to a wedding unless it’s your own. You’ll also want to avoid wearing them to other wedding events like rehearsal dinners or a bachelorette party, as you may upstage the couple.