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From birthdays to swearing-in ceremonies — all you need is the right dress.

I am a "Judy" of all trades who writes about pretty much everything, but specializes in sexual wellness, personal care, plus-size fashion, maximalist home goods, and gnarly before and after pics!

Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women’s.

Promising review: "GORGEOUS! These gowns are beautiful! They fit as described in the size chart. They do have stretch. The length is very long, which I prefer. They look fabulous as is….add a tulle underskirt if you want more fullness.I kept the teal one for an upcoming formal event. The color shift is deep green/ electric blue." —Kira

Price: $67.99+ (available in sizes L–5XL and five colors)

Promising review: "As someone with saggy boobs, I never wear something that has a deep V front, but I had seen this dress enough times from influencers, so I decided to give it a go. I was doubtful, to say the least, but I feel so supported in this dress. It is stunning, lightweight, and comfortable. I will be buying again in different colors. I’m a 38DD." —Ali

Price: $39.99 (available in sizes XS–L and 18 colors/prints)

Promising reviews: "Super cute! Great value for the money! Got this dress to attend a wedding, and it’s very comfortable! I would say it’s pretty true to size, and it has some stretch. It’s hard to find cute dresses as a plus-size girl, and this is soooooooo cute! Love the slit on the leg too!" —Keri

Price: $42.99+ (available in sizes 12–24 Plus and five colors)

Promising review: "What a gorgeous dress! I just wore it for a summer wedding and absolutely adored it. I got so many compliments on the color and style... No issues with it whatsoever. It was so comfortable to wear. I highly recommend this dress." —Pauline S.

Price: $55.99 (available in sizes S–XL and 15 colors)

Promising review: "I wore it to my niece's wedding. I did a quick alteration to bring it in under the sides. It was comfortable to dance in and run after my girls... Turned out great and would buy it in other colors." —CRich

Price: $65.99+ (available in sizes S–XL and 14 colors)

Promising reviews: "Bought this dress because I always wanted to get the House of CB dress, but didn’t want to pay over $250 for it. It’s honestly so good! I got the size large in this since they didn’t have my normal sizes, which are small to medium (I have a bigger chest, so I tend to size up). But since this has a corset back, I was able to cinch it up really tight and it fit perfectly!" —Chris Herfurth Kennedy

"Beautiful, stunning perfection. This may be the best thing I've ever bought on Amazon. The corset in the back makes it fit like it was made for me. It's double-lined and not see-through at all, even though it's white. The straps are adjustable, the slit is a good height, and the fabric is slightly stretchy. I cannot say enough good things about it. It did come slightly wrinkly in the skirt, but nothing that a good steam won't fix." —Shoshanna

Price: $44.79+ (available in sizes 0–16 and in 23 colors/prints)

Promising review: "I bought this dress for the Kentucky Derby, and it was a hit! Lightweight material, true to size. Didn’t need anything underneath to make it flare out." —Bren

Price: $28.28+ (available in sizes XS–3XL and in 21 colors/patterns)

Promising review: "I was comfortable and added super-cute suede cowboy boots to the outfit. I used this for a masquerade ball, and I felt super comfortable and confident... This dress is a must-have for any dressy event." —Kortney Peagram

Price: $65.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and six colors)

Promising reviews: "Just get it! Great quality, lightweight dress that covers you without being too thick. The material is perfect for spring and summer weather! Sizing was perfect. I’m 5’7 and 185 pounds. I looked great!" —Shardae

"If you’re thinking about buying this one, just DO IT! It was so cute for my girls' night. The fit was great, and all I had to do was throw on my jewelry and a cute heel! Love it so much I’ll be ordering it in the blue! 😍 I got a size L, but could’ve sized down to an M. I’m a size 10/12 in jeans and a 38D for reference." —Tee

Price: $37.83+ (available in sizes XXS–4XL and 17 colors)

FYI, reviewers mention that if you are bustier up top, you may want to size up!

Promising review: "Love this dress. Fits perfect. It was a hit for the event I bought it for. I got lots of compliments. I will order another one in a different color." —Lydia P. Dooley

Price: $43.99+ (available in sizes S–XXL and 12 colors)

Promising review: "When I found this dress, I fell in love and ordered it immediately. It was perfect for what I needed, and I hoped it would look all right. When it arrived, I was shocked and elated by the quality and perfect fit right out of the package. The neckline is gorgeous, and the length is on point... I wore it to a wedding and received many compliments; it made me feel very beautiful. I hate weddings and fancy events in general, but I kinda want an excuse to wear it again soon!" —Olenka Hamilton

Price: $54.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and 10 colors)

Promising reviews: "Cute and comfortable dress that looks like it was bought at a boutique! The dress is well-made in a nice fabric that washes well. Lining not needed because the fabric is the perfect weight." —Maggie C.

"Worth the money!! So glad I bought this precious dress!! Looks like a much more expensive brand! Nice thick material, vibrant color, and a perfect fit! I wore this with my cowboy boots and got so many compliments! No stretch to the material, but it didn’t wrinkle." —Lisa Lambert

"Cute dress. Sleeves are structured and puffy. Perfect in the spring/summer but also great with high boots and a thin turtleneck in the fall. Very versatile."  —Shelly

Price: $36.99 (available in sizes XS–L and seven colors)

Promising review: "Bought this for a themed night on a recent trip, and this was the crowd favorite! I ordered a red one, but didn’t like the way it looked compared to this color pattern, so I’ll be ordering more patterns. Love the material, which was very soft and breathable. It’s true to size and very stretchy." —Ava N.

Price: $39.99 (available in sizes L Plus–5XL Plus and 32 colors/prints)

Promising reviews: "Love the fabric, the fit, and the flowy-ness of the skirt! I got a size small in blue; it’s a tad bit long (I’m only 5'2"), but I’ll wear it with wedge sandals, so that won’t be an issue! It’s very well-sewn and such a beautiful color, and I couldn’t be happier! (I love it so much I’ve already ordered a second one in another color!) I don’t ever want to take it off!" —Jaime

"Purchased this dress for vacation. It was perfect for an evening dinner and a night out. It fit well. The back is very revealing, but was perfect for a night out. There is a drawstring in the back to allow you to either tighten or loosen the area around the waist and the back opening of the dress. The material is not heavy, nor is it too thin. Received lots of compliments." —Cassandra Vincent

Price: $37.99 (available in sizes S–XL and 27 colors)

Promising review: "This dress is absolutely romantic and beautiful...I really appreciate the built-in slip that prevents it from being see-through, which makes it feel much higher-quality and easy to wear without worrying about layering. Also, this dress is just FUN. It moves really well and has that perfect twirl factor, which makes it feel a little extra special when you wear it. Overall, such a pretty, easy piece that feels more elevated than the price point." —Cris Hidalgo

Price: $27.72+ (available in sizes S–XXL and 33 colors/prints)

Promising review: "I bought this dress in three colors. Comfy, cute, POCKETS, need I say more?? Had enough space for my large chest, and not too tight on the arms. I feel so pretty in this dress, and it has room for a belly. I'm just fat, but I think it would work for maternity as well." —Samantha Vance

Price: $25.99+ (available in sizes S–XXL and 26 colors)

Promising reviews: "It was very good quality fabric and was lightweight with adjustable straps, which worked well for me because I have a large chest. The color was gorgeous and matched the picture. Very vibrant and bright yellow! Perfect for an outdoor wedding." —Imani Coleman

Price: $31.89+ (available in sizes XS–XL and 24 styles)

Promising review: "I loved this dress. I wore it to a formal wedding in June and received so many compliments. It fits perfectly. I have an athletic build with some curves (I’m a 42-year-old mom of two). I was nervous to order a dress for a fancy wedding on Amazon, but this dress was perfect!" —Melinda

Price: $57.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and 30 colors)

Promising review: "This dress is super cute and looks exactly like the pictures! The color is beautiful and really stands out, and the material steams well to get out any wrinkles. The only thing to keep in mind is that it is on the shorter side, so depending on your height, you may want to plan accordingly. Overall, I love it and think it’s a great purchase!" —Taelor

Price: $47.99 (available in sizes XS–XL and 16 colors)

Promising review: "This dress was perfect for a wedding. I wore it as both the wedding director and a family member of the bride, so I needed something that looked elegant but was also comfortable enough to move around in all day. It delivered on both. The fabric was lightweight and kept me cool, even during a warm day, and the overall look was beautiful and appropriate for the occasion. I received several compliments and felt confident the entire time. Highly recommend for weddings or formal events." —Kathryn Whitehead

Price: $46.99+ (available in sizes XXS–XXL and 24 colors/prints)

Promising review: "As a 40-year-old who wore this to a fall wedding, I was genuinely impressed. The lace floral detail felt elegant without being too fussy, and the slit gave it just the right touch of modern flair. It draped beautifully and was comfortable enough to dance in all evening. I got compliments all night, and it felt dressy and appropriate without being over the top. Great choice for weddings, parties, or any event where you want to look put-together with minimal effort." —Angela

Price: $59.99 (originally $75.99, available in sizes S–XXL and eight colors)

Promising review: "This dress is PERFECT! I got compliments on the dress all night. I already knew it would be snug, but with the length and fishtail detail, it was very classy for a wedding. The material and zipper are sturdy and thick. I always buy dresses from this seller, and they never disappoint!" —Amazon Customer

Price: $32.25+ (available in sizes XS–XL and 22 colors)

Promising review: "This was a perfect fit and I'm going to be actually using this for my college graduation. I'm in my 40s and so I really love the fit and the comfort and the jacket is just a bonus to come with it." —Marissa

Price: $79.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and 27 colors)

Promising review: "This dress is so gorgeous, well made, and very comfortable! I purchased it to wear to a military ball. There is nothing about this dress that's ill-fitting, rough/scratchy, or uncomfortable. The outer layer is very light and flowy. The inner layer is still lightweight, but more silky. The cups are also lined in this same silky material. I don't know that I'd be able to wear a bra with it, as it does show a bit of side boob. But the cups feel somewhat supportive. Great dress — BUY IT! It would be awesome for bridesmaids or for [someone] to wear as a wedding guest, prom, bridal shower, etc." —ALC123

Price: $81.99 (available in sizes 2–26 and in 16 colors).

Promising review: "Just get it; it's perfect for a summer wedding! I was a little hesitant at first because of the shoulder flower, but honestly, this dress was beautiful... It fit beautifully, and the biggest perks were: 1) didn’t show a lot of wrinkles because of the fabric and print, 2) didn’t have me looking like a sweaty mess despite the very hot weather, 3) has some stretch and is very lightweight (but not see-through!). Be mindful the slit is high, I wore bike shorts under." —Kailey McEvilly

Price: $49.99 (available in sizes 6–18 and 11 styles). 

Promising review: "The design is just stunning. The ruffle details and lace-tiered accents give it a boho-chic vibe that's perfect for summer. It's effortlessly stylish and makes me feel fantastic every time I wear it. The floral print is gorgeous too — it's vibrant and feminine without being too overwhelming. It's like wearing a piece of art...just the right amount of flowiness. It's great for hot summer days because it's so lightweight and breathable. People ask me where I got it from and say how lovely it looks on me. It's such a confidence booster!" —Samantha Denney

Price: $23.99+ (available in sizes XS–XL and seven colors/prints)

Promising reviews: "The dress is very pretty, and it fits very well for my plus-size body type. I was super comfortable in it. I didn’t feel like it made me look frumpy like some other dresses do. Bought size 22, the chest is for larger breasts, so it was a little loose, but it didn’t collapse down if that makes sense to anyone." —Jonella, size 24

"This is probably one of my favorite dresses! I ordered it for a wedding. The color is beautiful! The fit is perfect for a plus-size girl like myself. I usually wear a size 14/16 in certain dresses. The 16 fit great!! I am 5’2, I will admit I should’ve had the dress hemmed about two inches because I tripped a few times. But nothing worth complaining about." —Shay Jackson, size 16

Price: $62.99+ (available in sizes 0–26 and in 20 colors)

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Plus, finds from Bloomchic, Boden, Lulus, Reformation, Shopbop, Target, and Walmart.

BuzzFeed Shopping is service journalism first: our writers and editors spend all day shopping so you don’t have to, vetting products, fact-checking brand claims, and surfacing what actually helps in real life. We center readers over revenue, recommend products with authenticity (using real experiences, not ad-speak), and reflect our diverse audience, inclusive of a variety of price points, people, and needs. We cut through fake deals, favor useful info over glossy fluff, and recommend both budget and splurge options with context so you can decide what’s right for you — and still have a little fun along the way.

Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.