THE BEST OCCASION DRESSES UNDER $500

MERRITT BECK IN AN AS IT MAY XANTHE RUCHED SHEER GOWN IN THE WEST VILLAGE

While I’m no stranger to spending a pretty penny on a fabulous dress for a special event, when you have numerous parties in one season it’s often just not feasible. I’m not opposed to a rewear – in fact I repeat most of my outfits multiple times in a season… if you follow my Instagram stories you’ll know! but I don’t love doing it at events where I’ll be seeing the same people who were at a previous event where I was wearing the same look. For evening wear, I think it’s important to have a little variety so you can switch it up based on who is attending what! In that case, I prefer to opt for a couple of less expensive options instead of relying on just one dress all season long. As someone who strives for quality over quantity in most cases, I sometimes struggle with the lack of options in less expensive departments. They tend to use cheap fabrics, have tacky details (ugly beading and embellishments, for example), or aren’t tailored well. With all of that said, this season I’ve actually found a couple I really love! I ordered both this sheer-bodice gown and the ruched dress you see in the photos above and both were a perfect fit! I thought the silhouettes were fresh and modern, in since they’re both solid black they’ll be useful for a number of events and occasions. Bonus: they’re super easy to style! I got the small in both

If you’re on more of a budget or just hoping to scoop up several options this season, I spent a few hours this week combing the web for the best occasion dresses under $500! From chic cocktail dresses to swoon-worthy gowns, below are my very favorite finds. No cheap designs or details – just elegant styles for the fall/winter season. Happy shopping!