From Weddings to Premieres: Where to Find Formal Wear
Spring is in full on flower. Social events and weddings (long put on hold) keep popping up on your calendar. Now’s the perfect time to exchange those lived in lounge about sweats for a dazzling dress . For if fashion is the cultural signifier we believe it is, it’s time to trot out, choose or find the ideal dress to compete with those Spring blooms. We are here to help sort through the dizzying array of exuberant possibilities.
And while environmental concerns aren’t going away, we can make an impact by dressing responsibly. Whether you’re a bridesmaid or a guest, we will show how you can be the center of the spotlight with different ethical options and a vast variety of sustainable dresses.
All products featured on No Kill Mag are independently selected by our writers or editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Rented
Rent the Runway
Formal dresses can be expensive, so renting is a refreshing alternative. This site stocks exquisite finery and even offers specific packages tailored to the bride and bridesmaids!
Farm Rio Dress
This multicolor printed Farm Rio dress is a dream come true! If you are the risky type of girl, the tropical patchwork prints of this boho-chic piece will help you make a charming presence wherever you go.
Trina Turk Cocktail Dress
But what if you are more comfortable with a little less fabric? Then, we have the right choice for you. A blush pink Trina Turk cocktail dress, along with some delicate cap sleeves and a crew neckline. Thanks to the large blooms print, this sheath dress strikes the perfect balance between soft and bold.
Coliseum Maxi Dress
This gorgeous maxi dress by Staud screams spring is in session. It has a fitted top with side cutouts and a modern empire dress cut that won’t constrict you. And since it’s made from linen it is guaranteed to keep you cool wherever you decide to wear it!
Lea Long Dress
A silk floral dress by Saloni is the perfect way to ring in spring. This dress has a great balance of color so it’s not too much or too little. The neutral orange undertone of the garment is perfect for those with a more neutral style that want to spice things up this spring.
Strapless Popover Gown
Going to a more formal event? This is the perfect dress to attend it in. The strapless flowy top with the tighter bottom is the perfect classy look. And what screams spring more than a lime green dress? The answer is…nothing!
Vintage
The Vault 1969
An online vintage marketplace with an enormous diversity of garments for men and women, where you can also find exceptional pieces in excellent conditions.
‘60s Pierre Cardin Raw Silk Minimalist Dress
This classic style of dress with a twist in design at the bust line will match your vintage needs but also be up to date with trendy styles. The subtle colors of this dress look good on almost any skin complexion!
‘70s Visionz California Floral Dress
Beautiful and flirty vintage 70s Visionz California green floral wrap dress. Very classy and romantic silhouette with pleated broad poof shoulders, plunging neckline and pleated button waist.
‘80s Ungaro Striped Dress
Beautiful vintage 80s Ungaro Parallele Paris charcoal black and white stripe dress. Classic Ungaro design made from a luxurious smooth wool gabardine. Elegant open back with shiny faceted buttons. Excellent and timeless piece to dress up or down. Made in Italy.
Cache Black Bodycon Dress
Beautiful vintage 80s Cache ultra suede and georgette panel bodycon dress. How simple but bold this piece is! If you believe black to be more than a winter color, we’re right there with you! This is the perfect way to incorporate black into your spring wardrobe. The rose embellishment is the perfect dash of color.
ESTEVEZ Black Velvet Strapless Dress w/ Gold Metallic Paisley Peplum Cape
Beautiful vintage ‘80s Luis Estevez black velvet strapless gown. Incredible silhouette with its super flattering fit that is accented by a metallic gold peplum bust that falls into a swooping cape. Definitely a head turner perfect for any event.
New Dresses
Whimsy and Row
Outdoor party season is here! And what better option than wearing an eco-conscious gown made from quality goods and sustainable practices? Whimsy and Row seeks to promote elegance by limiting garments to short runs, using deadstock fabric and reducing packaging waste.
Ellis Dress
If you can’t wait to hit the dance floor, the Ellis Dress is the perfect choice for you, thanks to its breezy leg slit. Even if you have a minimalist preference, this high neck gown will fulfill your expectations. Made of eco-friendly fibers, such as Tencel and Cupro, this dress is fully biodegradable.
LOLA Wrap Dress
The Lola dress is what dreams are made of. The Lola features a deep v-neckline, maxi length and flounce all around.
Bastet Noir
This environmental-friendly brand creates custom-made clothing manufactured in Macedonia by women single parents and micro entrepreneurs. Its localized factories help to decrease the carbon footprint in the production and supply chain. “Changing our society for the better one woman at a time, because we give a damn!”
A zero waste, sustainable, clothing label where designs are made to order tailored to clients measurements. It even shows you who made your dress. A great way to shop ethically!
Michelle Dress
A glamorous dress with versatility in the color you choose! The low back of this dress gives it what it needs to be classy and sexy! The ankle-length and mermaid shape of the Michelle Dress is inspired by Michelle Pfeiffer’s infamous role in Scarface.
Emerald Green Maxi Dress
Sweet velvet strikes again. The emerald green velvet dress has a thigh-high side slit with asymmetric arm detail and maxi length. This gorgeous emerald green dress is perfect for the spring season.
Silk Satin Jumpsuit
We know we said dresses but we couldn’t resist a jumpsuit. To really glam it up and be able to get down on the dance floor check out this super sexy Red Silk Satin Jumpsuit also by Bastet Noir. The wide-leg pants and the elastic waistband provides full comfort for partying and is a chic alternative for the ones who avoid wearing dresses.
–Nicole El-Koussa
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