Betches may receive a portion of revenue if you click a link and purchase a product or service. The links are independently placed and do not influence editorial content.

Loungewear has become the go-to fashion statement in recent times, and the AnotherChill Sleeveless Backless Bodycon Dress from Amazon is the latest addition to the trend. The dress has caught my eye as it bears an uncanny resemblance to the Skims Long Slip Dress, but at a fraction of the price.

First off, let me talk about the design of this dress. The dress is a stunning piece that accentuates the curves of any body type. The dress comes in four different colors, including black, white, beige, and pink. I personally opted for the black one, and it did not disappoint. The dress is perfect for those cozy nights in or for when you want to dress up and go out with the girls.

The dress is made of a soft and comfortable material that feels great against the skin. It fits snugly and accentuates the curves in all the right places. The length of the dress is perfect, falling just below the knee. The backless design adds a touch of sexiness to the dress without going overboard. The dress is sleeveless, which makes it perfect for layering up with a jacket or a cardigan during the cooler months.

Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: the price. It retails at a fraction of the price of the Skims Long Slip Dress. As much as I love luxe loungewear, I also love a good bargain, and this dress doesn’t disappoint in this aspect. The price point is a steal for the quality of the dress.

Another thing that sets this dress apart from its designer counterpart is the sizing. The Skims Long Slip Dress only comes in a limited number of sizes, which can be limiting for those with different body types. The AnotherChill Sleeveless Backless Bodycon Dress comes in a range of sizes, making it perfect for anyone to find their perfect fit.

One thing to keep in mind when purchasing this dress is to follow the size chart provided by the seller. As with any online purchase, it’s important to ensure you get the right fit. The size chart provided by AnotherChill is accurate and can help you determine the right size for you.

The AnotherChill Sleeveless Backless Bodycon Dress is a stunning piece that offers great value for your money. The dress is perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of elegance and comfort to their wardrobe. It looks just like the Skims Long Slip Dress, but at a fraction of the price. The dress is made of comfortable and high-quality material and comes in a range of sizes, making it perfect for any body type. If you’re looking for a stylish and affordable lounge dress, the AnotherChill Sleeveless Backless Bodycon Dress is definitely worth considering.

@__babybeee

@anotherchill_official I want to live in this dress #anotherchill #anotherchillhaul #amazondress

♬ DJ SUAVE x MakeMeWannaComeThru. – The Brandon Isaiah

Shop It: AnotherChill Casual Lounge Slip Long Dress, $24.99, Amazon

Betches may earn a portion of revenue if you click a link and purchase a product or service. The links are independently placed and do not influence editorial content.

Welcome to wedding season: where the hangovers are real, the dress codes are confusing, and we’re all listening to Mr. Brightside on repeat. As if the uptick in vaguely specific dress code attire hasn’t made finding a wedding guest outfit hard enough, you also have to think about the fact that you’ll probably be in the background of a wedding photo on the couples mantle for an entire lifetime. That’s, like, a lot of pressure. The idea of being underdressed (or overdressed for that matter) literally makes me cringe. There’s so much “vibe interpreting” required for all these confusing wedding dress codes that, frankly, most of us just aren’t cut out for. So to help guide you on your seemingly treacherous wedding guest outfit search, here are some options based on the different dress codes.

White-Tie

Clearly I need to reevaluate my entire circle of friends because I’ve never attended, nor have I even been invited to, a white-tie wedding. White-tie dress code is the most formal of them all, requiring floor-length gowns—no exceptions. Your gown should be paired with your most elegant clutch and accessories. And, if I were you, I’d take advantage of the occasion and pull a full-on Mia Thermopolis and add some elbow-length satin evening gloves. You can make your gown more seasonally-appropriate by choosing a color of fabric fit for the season you’re in.

One-Shoulder Scuba Crepe Gown

Shop it: Betsy & Adam One-Shoulder Scuba Crepe Gown, $249, Macy’s

Sweetheart Off The Shoulder Stretch Satin Dress

Shop it: Jules And Cleo Sweetheart Off The Shoulder Stretch Satin Dress, $109.92, David’s Bridal

Strapless Glitter Tulle Gown

Shop it: Mac Duggal Strapless Glitter Tulle Gown, $498, Saks Fifth Avenue

Black-Tie

TBH, this is a favorite dress code of mine because I honestly don’t have many reasons to get out of sweatpants these days. Black-tie dress code means you can wear a formal gown or elevated jumpsuit, either of which should be paired with chic-AF and elevated accessories. Basically, think prom-adjacent attire minus the over-the-top tackiness and vodka-filled water bottles. Similarly to with white-tie, you can make your black-tie ensemble match the season by choosing colors and fabrics that could either scream, “Mango Sherbet” or “Pumpkin Spice” simply with shift in hue.

Yaura Plus drape column maxi dress

Shop it: Yaura Plus drape column maxi dress, $124.30, ASOS

Floral Tiered Gown

Shop it: Mac Duggal Floral Tiered Gown, $458, Saks Fifth Avenue

Mary Kate Gown

Shop it: Katie May Mary Kate Gown, $295, Revolve

Formal or Black-Tie Optional

Okay, I wish we could honestly just take this option off the table because it’s confusing as hell. That being said, black-tie optional is pretty much equivalent to formal and just means slightly less formal than black-tie. The biggest difference for women’s attire is that a full-length gown isn’t required, but something of the same dressiness “vibe” is still recommended. Basically, if you want to get wild and show your ankles then you have permission to do so, but I’d avoid going above the knee for your hemline. If you truly can’t make up your mind, you can’t go wrong with a midi-dress.

Volume Sleeve Satin Midi Dress

Shop it: ASOS Edition Volume Sleeve Satin Midi Dress, $220, ASO

Cayla Side Drape Gown

Shop it: Norma Kamali Cayla Side Drape Gown, $150, Revolve

Black Halo Corrine Jumpsuit

Shop it: Black Halo Corrine Jumpsuit, $415, Shopbop

Cocktail

Cocktail attire means that women can wear shorter hemlines but still need to look dressy. Long story short, it would be inappropriate to wear a gown, but also inappropriate to wear a sundress. I realize that leaves quite a lot in between, but basically just think a specialty mini dress, elevated midi dress, or eloquent jumpsuit. Overall, this dress code does imply a bit more of a flirty and playful vibe, so have fun with it—but, as always, keep it classy.

Gala Midi Dress

Shop it: L’idee Gala Midi Dress, $395, Revolve

Blaine Taffeta Square-Neck Bow Train Mini Dress

Shop it: Sachin & Babi Blaine Taffeta Square-Neck Bow Train Mini Dress, $298, Anthropologie

Curve Off Shoulder Corset Midi Wrap Skirt Dress

Shop it: ASOS Design Curve Off Shoulder Corset Midi Wrap Skirt Dress, $79, ASOS

Semi-Formal or Dressy Casual

Semi-formal or dressy casual might be the most vague of all the dress codes because there are no “hard lines” beyond “no sweatpants.” Rather, you really have to feel into the vibe of the wedding, so maybe just grab a crystal and the invitation and mediate on it? On second thought, maybe just text a fellow wedding attendee to see what they’re wearing and go from there. At the end of the day, err on the side of being over-dressed rather than under-dressed.  Remember, it’s about special event elegance without crossing the line of “fancy.” Vague, I know, so best of luck.

Women’s Gaia Dress

Shop it: ASTR the label Women’s Gaia Dress, $98, Amazon

Let Me Be Strapless Asymmetrical Dress

Shop it: Let Me Be Strapless Asymmetrical Dress, $220, Anthropologie

Remarkable Entrance Navy Blue Floral Print Satin Midi Dress

Shop it: Remarkable Entrance Navy Blue Floral Print Satin Midi Dress, $75, Lulus

Festive

IDK about you but this one has truly left me scratching my head. The first thing that comes to mind when I hear “festive” are ugly Christmas sweaters—and I highly doubt that’s actually what the couple actually wants you to wear to their wedding. The best way to think about festive is to have fun with your outfit. Choose something in the cocktail/semi-formal arena with a little sass, if you will. Add a fun print, feathers, or even some sparkle and you’ll have yourself a festive look. Bonus points if your shoes are more fun than the entire wedding party.

Ruffled A-Line Flutter-Sleeve Mini Dress

Shop it: Mac Duggal Ruffled A-Line Flutter-Sleeve Mini Dress, $598, Anthropologie

Aurora Dress

Shop it: LPA Aurora Dress, $158, Revolve

Curve Floral Sequin And Bead Mini Dress with Faux Feather Hem

Shop it: Curve Floral Sequin And Bead Mini Dress with Faux Feather Hem, $200, ASOS

Daytime or Casual

The pandemic has made the backyard wedding quite a trend, and given how expensive weddings can get, I definitely see the appeal. Backyard or daytime weddings are usually more casual which means they’re perfect for a breezy sundress, pretty mini dress, or sophisticated set. The only “don’t” here is going too casual or too dressy. Just avoid dressier fabrics, overly casual fabrics, stiletto heels, sneakers…and you should be good to go from there.

Fresh Florals Navy Blue Floral Print Puff Sleeve Mini Dress

Shop it: Fresh Florals Navy Blue Floral Print Puff Sleeve Mini Dress, $75, Lulus

Farley Dress 

Shop it: Reformation Farley Dress, $248, Reformation

Sundrenched Maxi

Shop it: Free People Sundrenched Maxi, $148, Revolve

Editor’s Note: This post has been updated with new information in April 2023. It was originally written by Shannon McCormick

Images: Omar Lopez / Unsplash 

Since I am an underpaid peasant, most of my clothes are from Zara. Tbh I have nothing against Zara because I like looking fancy as f*ck in my crisp, cropped blazer over my tea-length flowy skirt, and knowing that I spent less than $100 on the lewk. However, as I enter my 27th year, I want to wean myself off of fast-fashion and invest in higher-quality pieces, AKA shirts that won’t unravel on the gentle cycle of my washing machine. That said, I’m not about to walk into Saks and buy myself a new wardrobe because, like I said, I’m poor. The solution? Shopbop’s bi-annual sale! 

Now, if you’re not familiar with Shopbop, climb out of the hole you’re living in and join society. Shopbop, which finally has its own storefront on Amazon, carries literally thousands of designers that are perfect for people who want to graduate from Zara but not quite reach Saks. Shopbop is affordable and that is why I love it on any given day; obviously, I love it a little more when everything is up to 25% off (with the code SPRING). If you get overwhelmed easily, allow me to share our favorite things on sale, and make sure to buy before the sale ends on March 8th!

Shoes

Rag & Bone Razor Booties, $495

I am that annoying girl who wears boots in the peak of summer and guess what, idgaf. I have no shame in my game because boots—booties, to be more specific—are stylish all damn year. Rag & Bone sells all sorts of stuff, but the brand is most-loved for its amazing leather boots. My bank account weeps every time I admit that I own three pairs, but there’s a very logical reason for that! The leather is thick af, which makes me feel a little fearless when I wear them because they’re basically indestructible. I will say, though, the white definitely gets dirty, so make sure you get yourself a good leather balm to keep them clean. 

Soludos Lauren Espadrille Sandals, $85

I never would have bought these because they are obviously a tad loud, but I got them in one of my Trunk Club boxes and they are literally my favorite shoes. They are so f*cking cute and they surprisingly go with everything. I’ve worn them with a pale blue fit-and-flare dress, I’ve worn them with denim cut-offs and an oversized white tee, and I’ve worn them with skinny jeans and a cropped denim jacket. Seriously, they’re more versatile than they seem. The only tiny issue is that they are definitely not made for long strolls. They do have a rubber sole, but it’s very thin, so be careful where you wear them. Other than that, they’re perfect.

Schutz Cloe Sandals, $170

Schutz is the underdog of shoe brands because I always forget about it when I’m on the hunt for a specific style, but they always end up having the exact pair I’m looking for. I have a pair of kitten-heeled boots, silver ballet flats, and sky-high, strappy stilettos from Schutz (can you tell I have a shoe addiction?) and the one thing they all have in common is that they are f*cking comfortable. Like the Soludos, they aren’t meant for a walk along the beach, but if you are going to a dressy event and know you’ll be on your feet for most of the night, these babies are the move. 

Tops

Tiger Mist Toronto Top, $75

Tbh, I can’t really say why this top is speaking to me so much because I haven’t worn a crop top since 2012, but there’s something about this hot pink number that I absolutely love. I would probably wear it with an aggressively high-waisted skirt, but I am also loving the way the model is wearing it. Even though it’s obviously a very specific look, you can pack it for a trip and wear it a few different ways. I would, however, make sure it’s the highlight of the outfit because anything that would compete with a top like this wouldn’t be a good look. 

Stateside Poplin Twist Front Shirt, $162

I have a weakness for white button downs. Whether they’re boyfriend style or super crisp, I don’t even care. I want them all—especially this one. I am absolutely loving the menswear vibe and think it would look chic af French tucked into a pair of tailored bootcut jeans. A classic white shirt is timelessly elegant, but I love that this one has a little bit of a style moment with the subtle twist on the front. Obsessed. 

Birds of Paradis Carla Blouse, $218

For the record, I would not classify my style as preppy, but I appreciate very preppy pieces when they’re paired with something a little grungy. For instance, this top, which screams Blair Waldorf circa season one, would look amazing with a pair of distressed boyfriend jeans and a pair of beat up high-tops. Or, of course, you could go the more neutral route and wear it over a pair of skinny jeans and metallic flats. Either way, this top wins.

Accessories

Gorjana Farrah Huggies, $45

I am a big earrings gal and I am proud to admit that I have about a million pairs. It’s a rough estimate. Anyway, as you can guess, I have multiple piercings and I would probably wear these with a few studs or smaller hoops in my other holes. **Cringes** These are a nice, contemporary shift from the classic gold hoop and I’m definitely into it. They aren’t the kind of earrings someone will stop you on the street to ask about, but they can be the finishing touch on any look. Next!

Botkier Cobble Hill Mini Crossbody Bag, $198

If color scares you, fear not because this very chic bag also comes in white with a tortoise shell handle.  Tbh I love the yellow because it’s attention-grabbing, but not too in-your-face because it’s pretty pale. Another thing I love about this bag, aside from the sharp, structured shape, is the fact that the leather is textured, as opposed to smooth. If you’re wondering what the f*ck difference that makes, let me just say, it makes a huge difference because all you have to do for smooth leather to scuff and scratch is, like, breathe near it. Textured leather, however, is tough af and, in my experience, is incapable of scuffs/scratches. 

Krewe Prytania Sunglasses, $275

I lose every pair of sunglasses I come into contact with, so I never spend too much on them. These are definitely a little bit of a splurge, but they’re so stylish and timeless that I will put extra effort into not losing them. Of course, these will look good or horrible depending on your face, but this oversized rounded square shape is generally pretty flattering. The tri-color detailing on the upper rims make them a serious fashion find.

Dresses

FARM Rio Mini Cashew Mini Dress, $155

Yes, this is a dress with a cashew pattern, but it’s so cute that it’s nuts! I hate me, too. Personally, I think all dresses with a snatched waist like this are flattering regardless of your body type. You obviously have to be pro-color if you’re going to buy this dress, but one thing I love about the palette is that it’s pretty muted. This is something I’d wear to dinner on a beach trip with a pair of straw wedges and a big-ass pair of sunglasses.

LOVESHACKFANCY Edie Dress, $295

I don’t know how they do it, but the designers at LSF make extremely flattering and sexy peasant dresses. This is the kind of dress, though, that would only look good in white. If it were in any other color, it would look like a nightgown my grandma would love, but in white, it looks like something a Grecian goddess would show up to brunch wearing. The eyelet details and the high slit in the front make it young-person friendly, and I am excited to wear it since I fully just purchased it as I am writing this article. I’d wear this with a pair of lace-up flat leather sandals or a pair of cork wedges. I seriously cannot get enough of this dress; it better fit me.

Z Supply The Reverie Dress, $60

As you can tell, I like a good oversized piece of clothing, and this dress is no exception. I love that it’s cotton because that means I can get away with wearing it as a cover-up to the beach and to dinner later that same day! It is my personal opinion that everything looks good with heels, but I actually think this dress would look pretty stupid with anything other than a sensible flat. The dress is so casual that trying to dress it up with any type of heel just wouldn’t work.

Images: Jakob Owens / Unsplash; Shopbop

Betches may receive a portion of revenue if you click a link and purchase a product or service. The links are independently placed and do not influence editorial content.

Sponored by Rent The Runway

Look, I know you think I should be honored and #blessed to be invited to your wedding, but in all reality here, given how much money I have to spend on your wedding, I’m pretty sure it’s actually the other way around. So like, you’re welcome for gracing you with my presence. Given how much money you’re forced to spend on the hotel, gift, etc., it’s nice to know that there’s a way to avoid spending half your paycheck on a dress you’re only going to wear once (because we all know that once an outfit has been on the ‘gram it gets banished to the back of your closet for the rest of eternity.) 

Instead of shelling out money to actually buy a gown, you can just rent one of the amazing dress options from Rent The Runway. The cost of renting it is wayyy less than what your gown would retain for, and some dresses start as low as $30. This way, you can still look amazing and wear a $1,200 designer dress without spending anywhere near that. Here are some of the best dress options on Rent The Runway right now that will be perfect for attending any fall wedding.

Black Halo Naples Gown

$575 retail / 4 day rental $70-85

This yellow dress is similar to the iconic dress Kate Hudson wore in How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days, and I’m totally here for it. I mean, anything reminiscent of Kate Hudson implies an effortless beauty, which is something we’re all constantly striving for. Now, I know yellow may seem like an odd choice for fall, but hear me out. This yellow is a deep and rich enough tone that it doesn’t scream “summer,” and when paired with a cool cropped leather jacket or faux fur shawl, you’ll be perfectly stylish and seasonally-appropriate!

Catherine Deane Red Lace Lena Dress 

$680 retail / 4 day rental $90-105

This lacy dress is chic and sophisticated, while also subtly sexy. The intricate details of the red lace against the nude fabric elevate this midi dress from other, more basic lace dresses. Not to mention, the red color combined with the lace gives it a flirty, feminine vibe. This is the kind of dress that demands attention and makes a statement, which is the ideal kind of dress to rent rather than buy. 

ML Monique Lhuillier Midnight Lace Gown

$650 retail / $65 to buy

This tiered gown is EVERYTHING. I’m obsessed with the perfectly fall rich navy color in the baroque-adjacent lace pattern. The whole vibe of the gown is very gothic princess, but like, in the most elegant way possible. What I love about this gown is how unique it is and how it’s pretty much guaranteed to flatter all body types. You’ll legit look and feel like a princess, and who doesn’t want that?

Christian Siriano Knit Drape Dress 

$1,595 retail / 4 day rental $270-280

I know this may come as a shock to you all but, as a 26-year-old Communications major who just moved out of her parents’ house, I can’t afford a Christian Siriano dress. However, I CAN afford to rent one (well barely, but that’s a personal problem). This dress is classy and conservative, making it the ideal dress for attending a wedding when it might end up being like, freezing. 

Cooper Street Midnight Lucky Gown

$389 retail / 4 day rental for $70

So this is the type of glitzy gown I would have dreamed of my mom letting me get for prom, but of course there’s no way in hell she would have let me buy a $400 dress. Which like, fair, she had to use her Macy’s coupons. But now I can finally live out my prom fantasy of wearing such a gorgeous dress, just now as a wedding guest instead. And I can even do so without actually having to buy the dress! With the sequins and the silhouette, this dress is beautiful and classy, making it the ideal dress for an elevated bougie Black-tie wedding. You know, the kind with an open bar that’s fully stocked with top-shelf alcohol.

C/MEO Collective Take Seriously Dress

$198 retail / 4 day rental $30-35

Honestly, the name of this dress embodies it perfectly. It’s the type of dress you wear to a wedding where you don’t mention that you went to a Big 10 school and once did a beer bong on the roof of a frat house. This is the dress you wear to attend the formal wedding of your boyfriend’s fancy lawyer friends. Like, where you know the other women will already be judging you regardless, so you come in looking like a class act. It’s all around very Amal Clooney vibes. Plus, pleating is very in for fall, and this dress has just the right amount without being over-the-top trendy. 

Slate & Willow Metallic Flounce Hem Dress

$128 retail / 4 day rental for $30

For a cocktail attire wedding, this dress is beyond perfect. The bronze color paired with long sleeves make it perfect for fall, while the metallic sheen elevates the dress and gives it a touch of trendiness. At a retail price of $128, this may seem like the type of dress you’d just blindly buy right out. But a wiser woman than you would recognize that a dress this cute is sure to be remembered, which means it’s highly unlikely you’ll wear it again. Hence, the more fiscally responsible thing to do here would be to rent it rather than buy it.

Shoshanna Navy Montrose Gown

$649 retail / $65 to buy

This gown is stunning, and even better, it’s pretty much guaranteed to flatter everyone. The keyhole cutout and fitted silhouette give it a touch of sex appeal without being over-the-top. But the best part is probably the fluttery off-the-shoulder sleeves, which always give the illusion of perfect arms without even having to strike the “skinny arm” pose. The midnight color plus minimal mock turtleneck give it just the right amount of fall-appropriate vibes.

When the rental price of your RTR gown costs a fraction of the retail value, you’re guaranteed to look incredible while also making a smart financial decision. Even though you would usually justify buying the dress by claiming you’ll wear it again, we all know that’s a lie. And realistically, you’re probs too lazy to even attempt to resell it. So save yourself the buyer’s remorse and utilize Rent The Runway’s amazing selection of wedding guest dresses. Plus, you can even get 30% off everything on Rent The Runway (including their monthly subscription to Unlimited and Update memberships too) if you use code: RTRXBETCHES.

30% Off Everything on Rent the Runway (that includes Unlimited and Update memberships too!) use code: RTRXBETCHES

Images: Naku Mayo / Unsplash; Rent The Runway (8)

When’s the last time you said no to a friend? Um, for me it was five minutes ago when a friend tried to change our Saturday brunch plans at a place with a free pastry basket to do a workout class. There’s a zero percent chance I’m ditching carbs on the “Day of Rest” to burn calories…you can quote me on that.  My point is, we say no to our friends all the time, yet when we say I DO to being a bridesmaid, that word gets deleted from our vocabulary.

Spend $500 on a bridesmaid dress you’ll never wear again? Ugh, sure. Find your passport so you can jet to the south of France for the bachelorette party that you’ll totally cover most of the costs for? Fine, whatever. Take off a handful of precious vacation days to help the bride go dress shopping and watch her try on Spanx until you find a pair that sucks her in perfectly? Ugh, I already asked my boss for time off. We find ourselves saying yes to everything, even things we can’t afford, don’t have time for, or simply don’t want to do.

Let’s all commit to rolling our eyes at that and instead saying the word “no.” Practice with me now:

“Will you wear this hideous bridesmaid dress that accentuates all the features of your body you work year-round to hide?”

NO!

Jot this list down of all the things you totally can and should say no to as a bridesmaid.

1. Spending Your Rent Money On The Wedding 

Being a bridesmaid is stupid expensive. If you have to do it a couple of times a year, you either have to drain your savings account, dip into your 401(k), or ask your parents for a loan. All for what? So you can pay for a stripper to knock on the door of the bachelorette party or to afford gifts for the engagement party, bridal shower, and wedding?

Before you hug the bride and say “thanks for choosing me,” think about how much money you’re willing to spend on her wedding. Set a limit. If you had to sit in front of your accountant and admit how much you spent on being a bridesmaid, would you be racked with shame or eager to spill the tea that you stuck to your budget? Probably the first. 

If your budget is $500, which is a third of what the average bridesmaid spends (TF right?!), tell the bride ahead of time that you will be buying a dress that you can afford, skipping the international bachelorette party, and only getting a gel manicure once during the wedding process (and it’ll be a color that you actually like, even if that means gold sparkles, deal with it Bridezilla).

2. Wearing An Ugly Expensive Dress

The older I get the more I want to know exactly how Katherine Heigl’s character could afford to be a bridesmaid in 27 weddings.

— Betches (@betchesluvthis) April 23, 2019

Be real, even if there were no more dress stores on the planet and you had nothing in your closet but old bridesmaid dresses (like some 27 Dresses sh*t), you still wouldn’t be caught wearing one of those things again, ever. You’d gladly make a dress out of a bed sheet to avoid putting on a generic-looking bridesmaid dress that wraps you up like the Toga you wore freshman year to the Sigma Chi date party.

Unless the bride is paying for the dress, you have the right to say no to any dress she picks out. If the color makes you look washed out, the style makes your boobs feel violated, or the price tag makes you gargle your own saliva, you can and should say no. The bride has the right to ask that her squad looks coordinated, fine. But she doesn’t have the right to nitpick the outfit like she’s on Fashion Police.

3. Becoming Her Personal Assistant

Nowhere in the job description for bridesmaid does it say “you are my personal bitch and are on-call 24/7 for all my needs, wants, and desires.” The only thing the bridesmaid description should say is that you’re DTF: down to have fun even when my crazy mother-in-law is stressing me out over the color of tablecloths. 

So if you’ve taken more than two “emergency” trips to a CVS, answered the phone at 2am more than once to hear the bride complain about a slimy wedding vendor, or found yourself on your hands and knees hot glueing centerpieces for the bridal shower, without getting a thank-you or a free bottle of wine to accompany you, start saying no. There are people the bride can pay to do all this dirty work: a professional bridesmaid! A day-of coordinator! A wedding planner as good as J.Lo! 

4. Being A Bridesmaid 

Being a bridesmaid is like working two 9-5 shifts in a row and not getting paid

— betchesbrides (@betchesbrides) September 30, 2019

There’s zero reason a bride needs 10 bridesmaids, except if she craves drama or wants a gaggle of people walking down the aisle to prove to her guests that she has friends. So if being a bridesmaid just isn’t something you’re into right now or you have a ton of other things happening in your life and you know you’re going to ghost the bride the second she asks you for a favor, say no. 

Instead, offer to read a poem during the wedding ceremony or help her plan one tiny part of the wedding. You can stay involved and show the bride how much you adore her without running up your therapy bill and having a panic attack a week over someone else’s wedding all because you’re trying to be a subpar bridesmaid. 

Images: Shutterstock.com; betchesluvthis, betchesbrides / Twitter

If you’re lucky enough to get an invite to a black tie wedding, you’ve got some classy-ass friends. You know that when you get there, there’s going to be fantastic food, an open bar, and a real good time. But before you get to enjoy said party, you’ve got to get the right dress for the occasion. When it comes to black tie, most people automatically assume this means you HAVE to wear black. But let’s not be so literal. I mean, if everyone wore black, the party would look like a group of high-class cater waiters or an orchestra group about to play a symphony (drunk of course.) But, as all betches know, black is the best color. So in case you do want to go literal and wear black to a black tie wedding, here are ten non-basic black dresses that are perfect.

1. Amanda Uprichard Cherri Gown

This dress is simple, elegant, and black tie perfection. The sweetheart neckline is feminine while the slit gives it an elevated sex appeal. It IS strapless, so just make sure your girls are secure before you start breaking it down on the dance floor. We all know a nip slip will take you from classy to trashy realllll quick—just ask Janet Jackson. 

2. Jay Godfrey Lena Gown

This dress is simply sexy. And look, I get it, it’s not one of the cheapest dresses on this list for something so simple, but that’s the beauty of it. This classic dress will never go out of style, and can be dressed up multiple different ways for different events and occasions. If that’s not enough reason for you to justify splurging, think about how good its resale value will be because of the fact that it is such a timeless style. Not to mention how thankful you’ll be that, because it’s black, you won’t have to worry about your spray tan sweating off and potentially ruining your expensive dress!

3. Missguided Black Open Back Maxi Dress

Business in the front, party in the back. This dress is elegant and flattering, but still shows some skin. It’s also a great price, so like, that gives you a little extra money to spend on the happy couple’s gift!!! Or, more likely, a little extra money towards the alcohol for the wedding pregame, so maybe you can actually treat yourself to some Titos (instead of something that comes in a plastic handle).

4. Alfred Sung Mikado Jersey Bodice Trumpet Gown

This dress is sophisticated, chic, and super classy. Just like, don’t do an updo with this dress or you’ll look like a straight-up narc. Keep it glam with loose wavy curls or a chic slick pony. You want to look hot, not like the chaperone for prom.

5. Missguided Black Bardot Wrap Slit Slinky Maxi Dress

This dress is stylish AND cheap. So, if you’re anything like me, and sick of blowing all this money on everyone else’s “eternal love”, this dress is a great option. Because it’s black, it automatically won’t look cheap, even though it actually is. Dress it up with elevated accessories and no one will have any idea that it actually only costs as much as your weekly Starbucks run.

6. Lovers + Friends Lambella Gown

This one-shoulder dress is stunning, and perfect for a black tie wedding. With the Angelina Jolie-adjacent leg slit and goddess-like one strap top, it’s the ideal dress for the occasion. It’s also simple enough that it could be dressed down for a less-fancy occasion, even after you wear it for the wedding. To quote the iconic Hannah Montana, “you get the best of both worlds.”

7. Zviago Eye Of Horus Gown

Does this dress look familiar? Well, if it does, it’s probs because you’re a Bachelor fan. This is the same dress Hannah B., aka our newest Bachelorette, wore on her last date with America’s most eligible virgin bachelor, Colton Underwood. *Sheds inauthentic tear.* You may not want to wear a dress Hannah B. got dumped in, and look, I get it, but hey, look at her now! She’s the Bachelorette! Oh, yeah, I forgot…her men suck. But then again, this one’s a classy black, rather than Hannah’s tacky metallic pink, so maybe it will still bring you better luck than her after all.

8. Katie May Surreal Gown

No one ever wants to look like a try-hard, that’s why the goal is always to look subtly sexy. Especially, ya know, if you’re bringing that f*ckboy (who you’ve been trying to actually lock down as your official boyfriend) as your date. This dress is innocent-hot, and lets him know you’re gf material, but like, you’re also a hot commodity. So like, sh*t or get off the pot. Or at least stop booty-calling me..

9. Lulus Mine Backless Trumpet Gown

If you’re going to a black tie wedding where the bride and groom are more conservative, a dress like this is a great option. It’s conservative while still being stylish, so you’ll still look good af. It’s also a timeless style, so you’ll ideally end up wearing it more than just this one time. Ideally, of course.

10. LIKELY Maxson Gown

This one strap maxi has a touch of edgy flare with its one-shoulder detail. It’s cool and fashionable, but in a classy black tie appropriate way. Sassy and sophisticated, just like you, right?!?!

Whether you decide to play it safe and go with one of these black options, or spice it up with some color, just make sure you’re wearing some type of gown so you’re dressed appropriately. I mean, it won’t guarantee that you’ll also act appropriately, but that one will be more so determined by your relationship with the bartender at the open bar.

Images: @kiraikonnikova / Unsplash; Revolve (6); Missguided (2); Nordstrom (2)
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Look, I know weddings are expensive. Like, unreasonably expensive. So after worrying about paying for your extravagant fairytale Insta-worthy wedding for months on end, the last thing you’re going to want to worry about is figuring out what you’re going to wear for your rehearsal dinner. And, you definitely won’t want to pay a fortune for it, either. So, in my neverending quest to help make your life easier (at least in the fashion department) here are five dresses perfect for your rehearsal dinner that are all under $200. So now you can get back to obsessing over the important stuff, like whether the flowers you picked for the centerpieces (that cost way more than you’ll ever admit to your soon-to-be husband) will even photograph well.

1. Lulu’s White Bodycon Strapless Ruffle Dress, $59

Simple, classic, and perfect for your rehearsal dinner, this strapless dress is everything you want and need in your dress for your pre-wedding affair. It’s elegant and beautiful, and the ruffle adds a stunning elevated detail. Plus, at a mere $59, you could even afford to allow your annoying af cousin to bring his plus-one. Er, maybe not considering last time he brought someone to a family event it was a random girl who got so blacked out she couldn’t even walk. Either way, with how affordable this dress is you at least have the option to do so. I mean, at least if he does bring her then he’d be so busy taking care of her that he wouldn’t have time to annoy all your other guests. So that’s a plus.

2. Amanda Uprichard Evalina Dress, $198

This dress is the epitome of a classy bride. Like, the bride showing up to her rehearsal dinner in this timeless dress totally has her sh*t together. It’s simple, yet fashionable and practical. It’s effortlessly beautiful and vvv Amal Clooney vibes. And I mean, she’s the woman who locked down America’s most eligible bachelor of all time. So if it’s good enough for Amal, it’s good enough for you.

3. UO Mallory Cowl Neck Slip Dress, $49

I’m obsessed with the feminine, delicate look of this white slip dress. It’s cheap, and you could easily wear it again, but it’s also still totally perfect for this specific occasion. Again, it’s effortlessly stylish and gives the illusion that you’re a cool, chill bride. Ya know, it totally disguises the fact that you’re a Type-A Bridezilla who should probably be caged for the safety of everyone else around you.

4. ELLIATT Frida Dress, $170

Unlike the last dress, this dress lets your guests know that you’re a high-maintenance bride who takes this whole wedding thing v seriously. And for how much it’s costing you, understandably so. It’s supes stylish and has dramatic detailing and like, the design is kinda extra…but I mean, your whole wedding is extra, so respect for staying true to your brand.

5. BCBGeneration Ruffle Sleeve Mini Dress, $118

Playful, flirty, yet totally classy, this dress says “Yeah, I may get a lil drunk at the rehearsal dinner, but the only person who will know about it is my soon-to-be husband.” It’s cute and simple, and does the job. Kinda like your niece as the flower girl, who better not dare upstage you on your big day. Just drop the flowers, and fall in line, sweetie.

Overall, your dress should represent you and the overall vibe of your wedding. Like, if you’re having a huge glamorous wedding, it would be weird and confusing to wear a casual white maxi to the rehearsal dinner. You want to use the rehearsal dinner to set the tone for the whole wedding, so don’t go too casual if it’s a black tie wedding or else you risk your guests thinking it’s way more lax than it actually is. And the last thing you need is your guests showing up too casual and ruining all your photos. Like, you’re going to be TB-ing those pics on Insta for years to come, so your guests better f*cking get it right. No need for you to contribute to their incompetencies.

Images: Melody Jacob / Unsplash; Lulus; Revolve (3); Urban Outfitters

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