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Searching for the best black tie dresses to rent? Browsing Rent the Runway’s black-tie wedding dresses and need some inspiration? You’re in the right place!
I’m excited to share five of my favorite Rent the Runway black-tie wedding dresses today. In addition to my personal thoughts, I’ve summarized hundreds of reviews from other Rent the Runway members. For each dress, I’ve included sizing and fit notes, key positive and negative points for consideration, ideas for styling, and more. My goal is to help you feel like the best-dressed guest or just provide a little inspiration on your shopping or rental journey.
Ready to explore dreamy Rent the Runway gowns? Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Rent the Runway: A Revolutionary Rental Service
New York-based brand Rent the Runway (RTR) is a designer clothing and accessory rental company. This brand has been a game-changer for me since high school when I discovered I could rent designer prom dresses for a fraction of their retail price. Back then, the idea was pure magic to me. Renting designer fashion for a fraction of the price and reducing waste? A free backup size, free shipping, and no dry cleaning fees? Brilliant. From day one, I believed Rent the Runway had the power to change the way women approached fashion. And to this day, my teenage sentiment holds true. RTR has introduced millions to the sharing economy and made luxury fashion accessible. This rental platform has also redefined sustainable fashion. Now that’s a disruptive brand.
Hi friends! Recently, I became an RTR Ambassador, so now you can use my promo code “RTRLANE” and experience the magic of Rent the Runway yourself! Get 40% off any unlimited plan, which includes access to the best black tie dress rentals. While most promo codes apply to your first month, this will discount your membership for your first three months.
“In 2019, the average Rent the Runway member saved $16,783 in a year and rented 93 styles.”
-Rent the Runway
Joining the RTR Unlimited Membership
After a college career filled with dozens of one-time rentals, I joined Rent the Runway’s Unlimited Membership. With RTR’s monthly subscription service, I rent for more than just special occasions. Through the monthly membership model, I have access to everything from cocktail dresses to elegant suits and more. My recent fashion rentals have included high-waisted jeans, luxury evening gowns, bags, and so much more. With every shipment, I discover new designers, try out fun trends, and get the opportunity to express myself. I can rent new pieces based on my schedule, whether I’m heading to a formal affair, a work event, or a Friday night date.
My 5 Favorite Black Tie Dresses to Rent on Rent the Runway
But as my friend group entered our wedding era, I realized what an incredible investment this service was. Rent the Runway has saved me thousands on dresses for bridal showers, wedding events, and styles for the big day. And with dozens of black-tie affairs in recent years, I’ve never had to stress about spending money on an expensive new dress I’ll wear once. Rent the Runway has the best options when it comes to formal wear, with new arrivals added weekly. RTR is truly like having my own personal closet of designer dresses.
Today, I want to share a bit of RTR magic with you. I’ve compiled a few of my favorite Rent the Runway black tie wedding dresses. I’ve rented and loved every one of these designs, and I’m confident you will too. But just to be sure, I’ve included a comprehensive guide for each gown, including summaries of hundreds of reviews from other renters. Ready to get started? Let’s do it!
Ronny Kobo Raiza Gown
Shop this Formal Wedding Look:
Ronny Kobo Raiza Gown | Rent on Rent the Runway
PAVOI Gold Hoop Earrings
The Drop Avery Square Toe High-Heeled Sandal
Interested in buying this dress vs. renting it? The Ronny Kobo Raiza Gown retails at $578 on Revolve.
Description of Dress: Ronny Kobo Red Raiza Gown
The Ronny Kobo Raiza Gown is a captivating dress in a bold red hue. The perfect wedding guest dress, this gown features petal cutouts and a flattering, body-con silhouette.
My Personal Thoughts
This Rent the Runway dress is a showstopper and perfect for any special event! The brass ring detail and petal cutouts are so unique. I felt so confident wearing this gown, and it was easy to move in. I loved the stretch of the fabric. Wearing it felt like having an everyday dress on, rather than a formal gown. This bold dress needs very minimal accessories, if any. I paired it with my favorite clear heels from Amazon and simple gold hoop earrings.
Sizing
Based on my experience and customer reviews, this Rent the Runway gown runs slightly large in the chest area and a bit tight in the hips. The straps are adjustable, with three settings, allowing for some customization. The dress is suitable for a variety of bust sizes, but those with larger busts may need to adjust the straps for optimal fit.
Where to Wear this Rent the Runway Gown
This gown is perfect for any black tie event where you want to dance the night away and stand out from the crowd.
Rent the Runway Customer Rating
Reviewers agree that this Rent the Runway red dress is a winner. RTR customers give the Ronny Kobo Raiza a perfect 5-star rating.
What Reviewers Say: Key Positive Points
- Reviewers describe this dress as comfortable, well-made, and perfect for dancing.
- Many customers reported receiving numerous compliments while wearing this dress.
- Customers loved the unique petal-like pattern over the chest
What Reviewers Say: Key Negative Points
- Some customers mentioned that the Raiza Gown ran slightly big in the chest area and tight in the hips.
- Reviewers mentioned that the gown can flatten the chest a bit but still provides decent coverage.
- A few reviewers found the dress to be a bit long, but suggested it would be suitable with heels.
Other Notes
Adjustment of the straps may be necessary, particularly for individuals with larger busts.
Similar Black Tie Dresses to Rent
Looking for a second style with a similar vibe? Rent the Runway has dozens of red evening gowns like the Ronny Kobo Raiza Gown. Consider these gorgeous alternatives:
Mac Duggal Pink Ruffled Floral Gown
Shop this Black Tie Wedding Guest Look:
Ieena for Mac Duggal Pink Ruffled Floral Gown | Rent on Rent the Runway
SHASHI Perle Raindrop Earrings
The Drop Addison Bag
The Drop Avery Square Toe High-Heeled Sandal
Interested in buying this gown vs. renting it? Shop the Ieena for Mac Duggal Pink Ruffled Floral Gown at Saks Fifth Avenue. This gorgeous gown retails for $458. Mac Duggal has dozens of similar ballgowns that are perfect for formal weddings.
Description of Dress: Ieena for Mac Duggal Pink Ruffled Floral Gown
The Ieena for Mac Duggal Pink Ruffled Floral Gown is an ethereal, fairytale-like dress. It features a floral pattern, a sweetheart neckline, and all-over ruffles.
My Personal Thoughts
My cottage-core, fairytale dream dress! The way it moves is just exquisite, and I love the all-over ruffles. I’ve been eyeing this Ieena for Mac Duggal gown for months, and renting it was a dream. The fit and flare style was flattering on my small chest, and being tall, I appreciated the longer length. If you’re looking for a gown that meets a black tie dress code and makes you feel like a princess, this gown is the perfect solution. I truly didn’t want to return it!
Sizing
Based on my experience and customer reviews, the dress is a bit snug around the ribs and runs large in the chest area. If you have a smaller chest, consider sizing down. Some users mentioned that the straps occasionally fell off their shoulders and that the length of the dress was a bit long, even with heels.
Where to Wear this Rent the Runway Gown
This Rent the Runway formal gown would be perfect for a black-tie garden wedding, or any formal occasion in an outdoor setting.
Rent the Runway Customer Rating
This Mac Duggal ruffled floral gown received a surprisingly low 3.5 out of 5-star rating. Many customers experienced issues with this gown’s sizing.
What Reviewers Say: Key Positive Points
- Reviewers loved wearing this Ieena for Mac Duggal gown and reported receiving numerous compliments.
- Many customers appreciated the dress’s design and comfort, stating it was easy to dance in.
- Many customers who rented this dress for summer weddings praised its print and color.
- Customers with smaller busts loved how this gown fit in the chest area.
What Reviewers Say: Key Negative Points
- The primary concern with this dress seems to be the fit in the chest area. Some customers complained that the cup size was too small, especially for those with larger busts.
- Some found the straps to be too long and had to use fashion tape to keep them in place.
- The length was an issue for some, with the dress being too long even with heels.
- Those with wider hips might find the ruffled design less flattering.
Other Notes
Given the customer feedback, it’s worth noting that some may need to use fashion tape or an adhesive bra to secure the dress. If you have a larger chest, sizing up may be a good idea. The length may be an issue for those on the shorter side, even with heels.
Similar Black Tie Dresses to Rent
Love this Rent the Runway gown and looking for a similar option? Check out these comparable styles.
CAROLINE CONSTAS Reyna Dress
Shop this Black Tie Wedding Guest Look:
CAROLINE CONSTAS Reyna Dress | Rent on Rent the Runway
Leevar Square Toe Heels
Want to own this gown and not just rent it? Shop this stunning style on Net-a-Porter or Tuckernuck. This elegant gown retails for $695. If you’d prefer a less colorful variation, the Reyna also comes in an equally fabulous style with polka dots.
Description of Dress: Caroline Constas Reyna Gown
The CAROLINE CONSTAS Reyna Dress is an off-the-shoulder gown that exudes femininity and elegance. With voluminous puff sleeves that can be worn up or down, this dress is suitable for various dress codes. This Rent the Runway dress is feminine and flattering with its gathered bust and bodice top.
My Personal Thoughts
The CAROLINE CONSTAS Reyna Dress is a new favorite Rent the Runway wedding guest dress! This gown made me feel incredibly feminine, sophisticated, and elegant. It’s equal parts flattering and comfortable, and I loved that I could move freely. One point to note is that the top has a tendency to slip a bit. I recommend using fashion tape to ensure everything stays in place.
Sizing
This dress generally fits true to size. However, those with a larger bust may wish to size up. If you’re on the shorter side, be aware that the dress runs a bit long.
Where to Wear this Rent the Runway Gown
This versatile gown can be easily dressed up with accessories for a black tie wedding or dressed down for a more casual wedding. It’s the perfect dress for an Italian villa wedding and blends into any picturesque setting.
Rent the Runway Customer Rating
The Reyna Dress has a 4-out-of-5-star rating on Rent the Runway. Please note that at the time of article publication, the dress was new to RTR and had only 3 reviews.
What Reviewers Say: Key Positive Points
- The built-in corset bra is appreciated, especially for those with bigger chests.
- Reviewers love the versatility of this dress and the option to wear the sleeves up or down
- Customers find this dress to be comfortable and flattering
What Reviewers Say: Key Negative Points
- Some reviewers commented on the excess fabric around the midsection, and some used a safety pin to enhance the fit
- The dress may run long, even when worn with heels
Other Notes
As mentioned, this dress is new to the Rent the Runway collection and has only received a few reviews. Potential renters should check the RTR listing for updated information before renting. Adjustments may be needed around the midsection for a perfect fit.
Similar Rent the Runway Formal Dresses to Rent
Want to rent a black tie dress with a similar vibe? If you love this CAROLINE CONSTAS gown, check out these black tie dresses by the brand:
Bronx and Banco Leo Gown
Shop this Black Tie Wedding Guest Look:
Bronx and Banco Leo Gown | Rent on Rent the Runway
The Drop Avery Square Toe High-Heeled Sandal
Rhinestone Dangle Earrings
Are you interested in buying this dress vs. renting it? The Bronx and Banco Leo Gown retails for $680. While this color variation is sold out, you can shop the Leo Gown in several other colors on Revolve.
Description of Dress: Bronx and Banco Leo Gown
The Bronx and Banco Leo Gown is an eye-catching dress with a vibrant, tie-dye design. This unique gown is perfect for a black tie wedding with its flattering cowl neck and daring thigh-high slit.
My Personal Thoughts
As soon as I put this gown on, I was ready for a party. The tie-dye fabric is incredibly unique, and the thick silk felt like butter against my skin. As someone taller (5’11”), I appreciated the longer length of this design. What I particularly love about this dress is the dramatic slit, but if you’re tall like me, proceed with caution. I used a safety pin to reduce the slit by a few inches, which made me feel more comfortable.
Overall, this is the perfect black tie wedding guest dress if you want to bring the party! You’ll make a statement and feel like a movie star. The Bronx and Banco Leo is one of my favorite rental options for the summer wedding season.
Sizing
My personal experience and customer reviews suggest that this dress fits true to size. However, some customers reported that it was a bit snug in the midsection and hips. A few reviewers noted that this dress may not work well for larger chests. The dress runs long, so prepare to wear higher heels if you’re shorter.
Where to Wear this Rent the Runway Gown
This gown would be perfect for a formal beach wedding with its colorful and unique design.
Rent the Runway Customer Rating
Customers give this Rent the Runway Bronx and Banco dress 4 out of 5 stars.
What Reviewers Say: Key Positive Points
- Many customers love this gown’s unique colors, fun slit, and flattering fit.
- Reviewers praised the Leo Gown for its soft, comfortable material
What Reviewers Say: Key Negative Points
- Some customers found the Leo Dress to be unflattering in areas like the midsection and hips.
- Several customers noted that the dress ran long and the slit was high
Other Notes
The dress requires a good sticky bra due to its low-hanging cowl neck. If you’re tall, have a safety pin ready to close the slit if needed.
Similar Formal Event Rent the Runway Dresses
If you love this unique rainbow gown, here are a few excellent options to consider:
Saloni Mimi Gown
Shop this Black Tie Wedding Guest Look:
Saoni Mimi Gown | Rent on Rent the Runway
The Drop Avery Square Toe High-Heeled Sandal
Rhinestone Dangle Earrings
Need this shell print dress in your closet permanently? For $745, you can own the Saloni Mimi Gown. Shop this stunning gown on Revolve or Shopbop.
Description of Dress: Saloni Mimi Gown
The Saloni Mimi Gown is a charming, sophisticated dress with a unique shell print, perfect for a beach or destination wedding. This dress is made of a sheen charmeuse fabric, with adjustable shoulder straps that ensure a comfortable fit. Its subtle elegance, flattering silhouette, and fun print make it the perfect dress to rent for a black-tie wedding.
My Personal Thoughts
Saloni and Rent the Runway strike again with this beach-themed gown! This is one of the best dress options for a formal beach wedding. I have never seen a shell print look so sexy and sophisticated! The Mimi Dress is easy to move in, comfortable, and ultra-feminine. Despite the product description recommending this gown for heights between 5’2” and 5’6”, I loved the length. I’m nearly 5’11” and was able to wear 2″ heels. The Reyna Gown is truly a dream dress for any big night.
Sizing
This gown is true to size, measuring 58” from shoulder to hemline. Although it’s recommended for heights 5’2”-5’6”, taller customers (5’10” and above) have reported enjoying the length. Note that the fabric has little to no stretch, so be sure to choose the size that will provide the most comfort.
Where to Wear this Rent the Runway Gown
With its stunning shell print, the Mimi Gown is ready to be worn on the beach or in a tropical destination. It’s the perfect gown for a beach black tie wedding. Get ready for compliments all night!
Rent the Runway Customer Rating
The gown has a 4.5 out of 5-star rating on Rent the Runway. The number of ratings for this dress is limited because it was recently introduced to the Rent the Runway collection.
What Reviewers Say: Key Positive Points
- Customers love the Mimi Dress for its sophisticated, subtle shell print. Many happy renters claim it was the perfect beach wedding guest dress.
- Reviewers love that the Saloni Mimi Gown hugs curves in all the right places.
What Reviewers Say: Key Negative Points
- Reviewers note that this dress runs short, especially for taller customers.
- The silk pattern provides little to no stretch.
- One reviewer noted the absence of a lining in the dress.
Other Notes
Given the silky fabric of the dress, order your true size for the best fit. The adjustable shoulder straps provide additional bust size flexibility. The dress can accommodate various heights but does run a bit shorter than most gowns.
Similar Rent the Runway Black Tie Wedding Guest Dresses
After reading this article, I hope you’ve discovered a black tie dress to rent on RTR! Have the best time at your event!
Please note, this post contains affiliate links. As a result, if you make a purchase through a link, I may receive a small commission. Please read my full disclosure statement {here}
