Choosing the perfect place to buy formal dresses online can seem like a daunting task, especially when you’re not sure what to look for in order to make the best buying decision that suits your budget. 

Whether you’re buying your first prom dress or just looking to update your own closet, it can be hard to find the best deals on formal dresses online. To help you avoid spending too much money on an expensive dress that you may not wear again, check out the list of top 5 best places to buy formal dresses online that suit every budget, style, and occasion!

Benefits of Purchasing Formal Dresses Online

If you’re searching for formal wear and can’t find anything that works, online shopping might be the best route to take. It might be your first time buying clothing online, but there are many advantages to doing so, including higher variety, lower rates, and a few more. Let’s check out some more benefits of buying formal dresses online: 

  • Huge variety of choices: Whether you're looking for an evening gown, prom dress, or bridesmaids' dress, you can find an endless number of styles and colors to choose from. 

There are also plenty of websites that offer discounts on formal dresses, which helps make them more affordable. Plus, since most websites offer free shipping on orders over $50, there's no need to worry about paying for expensive shipping costs.

  • Affordable rates: Purchasing formal dresses online is often more affordable than purchasing them in a store. This is because they are priced cheaper to cater to the cost-conscious shopper. 

A variety of stores offer low prices, so you're sure to find one that suits your needs. Not only are formal dresses less expensive when purchased online, but shipping costs are also much lower than in-store shipping costs. 

That's because there's no need for actual personnel to man the dress shop at all hours like there is in a brick-and-mortar store. This allows for lower prices on shipping as well as the ability for businesses to offer free shipping without having to worry about their employees being available 24/7.

  • Discreet shopping: When shopping for formal dresses online, you do not have to worry about being seen by family and friends. There's also no pressure to try them on, as they'll be sent directly to your home. 

It's a great idea if you have a busy schedule and can't find the time to go dress shopping in person. Shopping online is also convenient if you live out of state and want to order a dress from another country without spending lots of money on shipping costs.

The Best Formal Dress Online Stores

No matter your style, budget, or occasion, given are the top 5 websites that you can consider buying your next formal dress and brightening up your event.

  1. Amazon

It's no surprise that Amazon is one of the best places to buy formal dresses online. In addition to being a marketplace for 3rd party vendors, Amazon also has its own clothing brand called Amazon Essentials. 

The company stocks a wide range of styles, including evening gowns and ball gowns, and they have an easy-to-navigate website with plenty of information on each dress. They even have their own dress finder tool to help you shop.

  1. Macy's

Macy's is a great place to start if you're looking for a high-quality formal dress that won't break the bank. The store has so many different styles and colors that you'll find something for any occasion. 

What's even better about Macy's is that they offer free shipping and returns on all orders, so you can order confidently without worrying about the cost of return shipping. You can also find great deals with the store's sales, including the Black Friday Early Access sale and the Semi-Annual Clearance Sale.

  1. Ever-Pretty

Ever-Pretty is known for its high-quality, fashionable dresses. They are also a great resource for evening dresses and gowns. Ever-Pretty has an excellent selection of formal dresses that can be worn to any event and look stylish while they last. 

Besides they carry a variety of different styles, from long ballgowns to A-line styles, and lace dresses. Ever-Pretty Evening Dresses & Gowns are popular items on the list of many shoppers because they are affordable, stylish, and made with quality material. Currently, the site is offering 20% off for mother dresses and 15% off on your first order.

  1. Etsy

Etsy is an online marketplace where people can buy and sell handmade or vintage items and even formal dresses. One of the best features of Etsy is its Wish List which allows you to save the products you want for later purchases.

The site also has a Sale section that updates every day with new dresses on sale. That way, you don't have to constantly go through all the pages to find something that might be on sale now. It also has a Shop Local tab, which directs you to local sellers in your area so you can support them instead of ordering from overseas.

  1. Shein 

Shein is yet another popular clothing brand, where you can find a list of high-quality and shimmering gowns and dresses at affordable prices. You will find almost all types of clothing and style under one roof. 

The quality of their clothing is unmatched, and they have a variety of sizes available so you can be sure that your dress will fit perfectly. Shein's offers free shipping on all orders over $49, and they offer international shipping too.