Formal Event: gown or dinner suit?

[papertiger]

Since 'formal' means black tie for men, then why not black tie for women in the year 2024. I think the white suit will look stunning too, just bling it up.

Of the two dresses that you showed, the Roland Mouret looks very nice but still a bit cocktail, if you're not tall perhaps it'll hit the leg lower though. McQueen, Westwood, Balmain, Maison Margiela, Dolce Gabbana and Victoria Beckham to name but a few also offer tailored evening wear that is suit-ably formal.

 

[papertiger]

My teenage daughter has refused to wear dresses/skirts for a few years. We've found some tuxedo-ish options that work beautifully for her; she feels like a million bucks, and she draws the eye for being more covered up in a sea of the current teen style for homecoming dresses. Plus she gets to play with her look, sometimes adding a silk bowtie instead of a necklace, or high-tops instead of heels depending on the event.

Of course, hers isn't the same as your situation, but IMO a more formal/tuxedo-cut pantsuit in a dressier material, with well-chosen accessories could definitely work. In most cases any potential resemblance to service staff could be minimized by your choice of shirt, shoes, and accessories.

Whatever you choose, please share pictures!

Good for your daughter (and you)! I was the same when young. I even went to a full-on charity ball in a trouser suit when I was 16.

With hindsight, I can see that is was the formal evening wear fashion of the time I hated, once the 00s hit, I was totally happy to get my mother to pay for Cavali and Gucci full-length gowns (sorry mum).

I think a pant/trouser suit can look every bit as chic and charming/fierce as any chiffon or cinched and gathered tulle concoction.

 

[A bottle of Red]

Oh I love Talbot Runhoff dresses , they're so elegant and figure flattering! I have a black midi dress from them as well for a formal event a few years back.
Enjoy your new dress and the events!

 

[Christofle]

Depending on styling you can even make something black look remarkable!
For example this lovely huntsman for ladies

 

[A1aGypsy]

Totally agree if you go with a tuxedo vs a black suit!

 

[lill_canele]

As a lover of women's suiting in general, I think an all-white suit is stunning. I love strutting around in a white suit. It feels so crisp and and sharp!
Most people don't wear all white, and it definitely is an eye-catching outfit. Since it is so clean, you can definitely accessorize and have fun with your jewelry/bag/shoes, etc.

Talking only about suiting, if you want to go black or white for a formal event I think either will work. With black, like others have said, try not to go too classic with the designs and cuts so that you don't appear to be a waiter or staff employee.
I love Alexander McQueen and YSL suiting.

Don't get me wrong. I love a red carpet dress. But I just feel more comfortable in a suit with trousers.
And I agree, it's a little hard to re-wear dresses to multiple events. But you can still use the suit separates in various outfits and dress them up or down.