Formal, Evening & Maxi

Maroon evening gowns & maxi dresses

Floor-length maroon reads instantly formal. These gowns and maxis cover galas, black-tie weddings and destination events.

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Evening and maxi styles

Woman in a maroon off-shoulder evening gown with ruffle details against a dark backdrop — Photo: Vika Glitter / Pexels

Black tie

Off-shoulder ruffle gown

Sculpted ruffles at the neckline frame the face.

Suits: Black-tie events and galas

Woman in a strapless red-burgundy gown with a long train holding a wine glass — Photo: King Shooter / Pexels

Gala

Strapless gown with train

A pooled train turns a simple bodice into a showpiece.

Suits: Galas, opera nights and formal portraits

Woman in a maroon evening gown with an embellished bodice on a stone staircase — Photo: Eyüpcan Timur / Pexels

Glam

Embellished-bodice gown

Sparkling bodice and a full maroon skirt.

Suits: Proms, galas and formal weddings

Sequin

Sequin column gown

Head-to-toe shimmer in a deep red.

Suits: New Year's and award-style events

Lace

Lace long-sleeve gown

Sheer lace sleeves and a fitted silhouette.

Suits: Formal and religious ceremonies; mothers of the bride

Maxi

Satin slip maxi

Floor-length bias satin: simple, modern, luxe.

Suits: Evening weddings and black-tie optional

Maxi

Off-shoulder flowing maxi

Light fabric that moves beautifully outdoors.

Suits: Beach and destination events

Velvet

Velvet plunge dress

Deep V and long sleeves in plush velvet.

Suits: Evening parties and winter events

Choosing an evening gown

Black tie: floor length is expected. Satin, velvet, sequins and beading all qualify.
Black-tie optional: a floor-length gown or a very elegant midi.
Destination or beach: lightweight chiffon or jersey maxis that move in the breeze and pack well.

Fit and alterations

Hem a gown with the exact shoes you'll wear.
Check bustling options if the gown has a train.
Steam satin and velvet rather than ironing.
Leave two to four weeks for alterations before the event.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a maxi dress and an evening gown?

A maxi dress is any ankle- or floor-length dress, often casual. An evening gown is a formal floor-length dress, usually in luxe fabrics such as satin, velvet, lace or sequins.

Is maroon appropriate for a black-tie event?

Yes. A floor-length maroon gown in satin, velvet or sequins is a classic black-tie choice.

What accessories go with a maroon evening gown?

Gold or diamond-look jewelry, a metallic clutch and simple heels. Let one element, such as statement earrings, be the focus.

More maroon dress styles

BridesmaidsMatching and mix-and-match sets
See the styles

Homecoming & PromShort sparkle to full ball gowns
See the styles

CocktailParties, holidays and date nights
See the styles

Plus SizeFlattering cuts in every length
See the styles

Wedding GuestBy dress code, garden to black tie
See the styles

Velvet & FallRich texture for cold-weather events
See the styles

Free: the Maroon Color Palette & Styling Guide

A printable one-page guide: eight shades of maroon and burgundy, the colors that pair with each, and shoe, jewelry and makeup combinations for every occasion.