A woman in an elegant black textured evening dress and large pearl earrings poses seated against a light beige background, gracefully touching her face with one hand.

REBECCA VALLANCE

The Dress Edit

Textured Evening Dresses Are Taking Over Every Dress Code

 

The spotlight in evening fashion is shifting towards a fresh direction: textured evening dresses. However, these pieces aren’t the average gowns you see on all edits; they’re an opportunity to make a lot entrance at a wide range of events. Not to mention, they also add incredible depth and character to any wardrobe. Whether gracing a black-tie wedding or a chic cocktail party, textured evening dresses are rewriting the rules of making a statement. And as we step into fall soon enough, this trend is making its way into the limelight, beckoning women of diverse tastes to immerse themselves in a world of textures—spanning from intricate appliqués to dazzling embellishments. Regardless of your usual style, this eveningwear revolution is one to be a part of.

A model walking on the runway wearing a long, fluffy, pink feathered textured evening dress with a deep v-neckline and sleeveless design. She has short hair, wears dark heels, and has a

HUISHAN ZHANG Irina Belted Feather-embellished Silk-organza Gown

A woman in a textured evening dress stands confidently against a pink background, her shadow visible on the wall. She has short brown hair and is wearing heels.

HALSTON Sequin Hasia Gown

Textured Evening Dresses For Beginners

 

For those just dipping their toes into the world of textured evening dresses, it’s best to start with a gentle intro. Opt for dresses with lighter appliqués and embellishments. These add subtle texture, offering a touch of sophistication without overwhelming the overall look. It’s a perfect choice for semi-formal events or garden parties where a hint of texture elevates the elegance. And not only is it a safe place to start, it’s also just as eye-catching than any other statement piece.

 

For example, the OSCAR DELA RENTA Ribbon Tweed & Velvet Guipure Dress is quite easy to wear. While definitely more for formal occasions, textured evening dresses like this one is great for informal events as well. Just simply pair it with your go-to heel and top handle bag for a trendsetting head-to-toe look. Sometimes you don’t have to try too hard to stand out; this pick is proof of that.

Shop more evening dresses selected and reviewed by our expert fashion buyers and stylists

  • ZIMMERMANN Matchmaker Lift Off Silk & Linen Dress

    $1,995
  • MAC DUGGAL Sequin Halter Neck Sheath Gown

    $598
  • MAC DUGGAL Embellished Illusion Neck Long Sleeve Gown

    $498
  • LOVERS + FRIENDS Karlie Gown

    $298
  • NORMA KAMALI Diana Fishtail Gown

    $495
  • OSCAR DE LA RENTA Gardenia Lace Ruffle Halter Gown

    $7,490
  • AJE Energy Midi Dress

    $695
  • ALEX PERRY Long Sleeve Twist Satin Mini Dress

    $2,000
  • OSCAR DE LA RENTA Draped Off-the-Shoulder Silk Chiffon Gown

    $5,990

Save The Statements For The Fearless

 

For the fearless fashionistas who revel in making a grand entrance, bold textured evening dresses are your playground. Think feathers and shimmering sequins that demand attention. These statement evening styles are for the most extravagant occasions, where making a statement is not just an option, but a necessity. Black-tie galas, red carpet events, and lavish affairs are where these dresses truly shine. They embody the spirit of luxury and opulence, inviting every woman to step into the spotlight and own the room.

 

If you’re looking to turn heads, look to the HALSTON Sequin Hasia Gown. Reserved for your most special moments, a gown like this is a winner in any woman’s wardrobe. Similar, the DAVID KOMA Asymmetric Tulle-trimmed Wool-crepe Midi Dress is just as neck-breaking. And after surveying the market, they might just be our top favorite textured evening dresses. Although, we wouldn’t be surprised if they sold out tomorrow.

Shop All Evening Dresses

A woman with platinum blonde hair poses dramatically in a sparkly, purple galaxy-themed textured evening dress against a dark background. Her hands are clasped at waist level, and she gazes off to the side.

ROTATE BIRGER CHRISTENSEN + Net Sustain Amaranta Sequined Stretch Recycled-mesh Mini Dress

A woman in a Red Satin Textured evening dress with a bow detail on the neckline, posing in a warmly lit room with candles in the background. She has straight hair tucked behind her ears and wears minimal makeup.

RIXO Leanna Bow-detailed Satin And Crepe De Chine Maxi Dress

Simple Fall Dresses For An Effortlessly Stylish New Season