Top 8 Sister of the Bride Dresses for a Picture-Perfect Day

Finding Your Dress: The Sister-of-the-Bride Style Guide

Let’s be honest: being the sister of the bride is the best (and most stressful) role at the wedding. You’re not just a guest; you’re the co-host, the emotional support, the photo-op partner, and a core part of the celebration.¹ This puts you in a unique fashion predicament. You’re searching for a showstopper dress that makes you feel stunning, but you’re haunted by the number one rule: do not overshadow the bride.³

How do you find a gown that celebrates your sister’s day but also honors your personal style? You need a look that says “special,” not “center of attention”.³ That’s where we come in. We’ve analyzed trends, scoured reviews, and vetted fabrics to find the absolute best sister of the bride dresses that strike this perfect balance.

(Full disclosure: Our team may earn a commission from links on this page, but our recommendations are based on deep research and expert-driven criteria. We only suggest what we truly love.)

How We Chose & Ranked These Gowns

We know you’re not just buying a dress; you’re investing in a memory. To build this list, our team of fashion experts and data analysts weighed each gown against a strict, data-driven methodology.

• Fabric Quality & Feel: We prioritized dresses made from high-quality, comfortable materials, favoring luxe-feel sustainable satins ⁵ and structured crepes over basic polyesters.⁶
• Silhouette & Construction: We looked for modern, flattering cuts and checked construction details like lining and zipper quality.
• Size & Niche Inclusivity: We gave preference to brands offering a wide size range, including dedicated petite ⁷ and plus-size ⁹ options.
• Trend Relevance (2025): We cross-referenced styles with 2025’s biggest wedding guest trends, including romantic ruffles and modern halternecks.¹¹
• Real Wearer Feedback: We synthesized hundreds of real-world reviews from retailers and forums to vet comfort, fit, and any potential issues (like a finicky zipper ¹² or “runs small” sizing ¹³).
• Overall Value: We weighed the price against the fabric, construction, and versatility to determine if a dress is truly worth the investment.

The 8 Best Sister of the Bride Dresses for 2025

1. Norma Kamali Diana Gown (Best Overall)

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Snapshot:

• Best for: Formal, Cocktail, “Summer Formal” ¹⁴
• Silhouette: Asymmetrical, Bodycon with Ruching ¹⁵
• Fabric(s): 4-way Stretch Poly Lycra (95% Polyester, 5% Spandex) ¹⁵
• Length: Asymmetrical Maxi (falls to ankle on <5’4″) ¹⁵
• Size range: XXS–XL ¹⁷
• Care: Hand wash cold, line dry ¹⁵

Key Details: The genius of the Diana Gown is its construction. It features a built-in 4-way stretch bodysuit that smooths and supports, creating a seamless line.¹⁵ The heavy side shirring (ruching) creates a “liquid” drape that is incredibly flattering. It’s a pullover style with no zippers.¹⁶

Price: $275 USD at Revolve — checked on 10 Oct 2025. Stock is available in multiple colors.

Pros / Cons:

• Pros:
  • Incredibly flattering on a range of body types, especially curves.¹⁸
  • The built-in bodysuit is comfortable and supportive.¹⁵
  • The 4-way stretch fabric is extremely forgiving.
  • An iconic, trend-forward look seen everywhere.¹⁹
• Cons:
  • Sizing advice is confusing: Revolve often suggests sizing down ¹⁷, but the brand itself suggests sizing up for a more draped fit.¹⁵ (Our advice: Order your true size for a bodycon fit; size up one for a more forgiving drape).
  • It’s very popular, so you might see it on another guest.

StylING Ideas: Let the dress be the focus. Pair it with simple strappy heels ²⁰, statement gold earrings, and sweep your hair to the non-shoulder side.

Why It Ranks: This gown is our #1 for its perfect blend of Trend Relevance and Comfort. The Diana Gown is a modern icon for a reason. Its clever built-in bodysuit and strategic ruching deliver a stunning, sculpted silhouette while feeling as comfortable as loungewear.¹⁵

Where to Buy: Revolve, Norma Kamali

2. BHLDN Danielle Strapless Satin Dress (Best Modern Minimalist)

Snapshot:

• Best for: Black Tie, Formal, Modern Weddings
• Silhouette: Column / Sheath ²¹
• Fabric(s): Stretch Satin (Polyester) ²¹
• Length: Maxi ²¹
• Size range: Standard (XXS–XXL) & Plus (1X-3X) ¹⁰
• Care: Professionally clean ²¹

Key Details: This dress is all about sleek, modern lines. It features a clean strapless neckline, a dramatic high side slit, and an invisible side zipper for a seamless look.²¹ The stretch-satin fabric provides a structured, body-hugging fit that still allows you to move.

Price: $248 USD at BHLDN (Anthropologie) — checked on 10 Oct 2025. Available in 7+ colors.

Pros / Cons:

• Pros:
  • Excellent size inclusivity, with a full range of plus sizes available.¹⁰
  • The stretch-satin fabric is more forgiving than non-stretch materials.
  • A timeless, minimalist design that can be styled countless ways.
• Cons:
  • Strapless designs can be tricky and may require fashion tape or alterations for a secure fit.
  • “Professionally clean” only adds to the long-term cost.²¹
  • Some reviews note BHLDN’s non-bridal polyester fabrics can feel overpriced.⁶

Styling Ideas: For a formal look, pair with closed-toe pumps ²³ and a statement choker. For a modern vibe, try a delicate lariat necklace ²⁴ and a chic bolero or pashmina for the ceremony.

Why It Ranks: This dress gets top marks for Size Inclusivity and Silhouette. It’s incredibly difficult to find a modern, minimalist gown that is available in a true plus-size range. The Danielle dress delivers a sophisticated, elegant look for every body type.

Where to Buy: BHLDN, Anthropologie

3. Lulus Heavenly Hues Maxi Dress (Best Budget Pick)

Snapshot:

• Best for: Formal, Budget-Conscious ²⁵
• Silhouette: A-Line ²⁶
• Fabric(s): Woven Chiffon (100% Polyester) ²⁶
• Length: Floor-length ²⁸
• Size range: XXS–XL ²⁸
• Care: Dry Clean Only ²⁷

Key Details: This is a beloved classic for a reason. It features a flattering V-neck and V-back, a fitted banded waist, and a full, flowing A-line skirt with a tasteful side slit.²⁶ It is fully lined and secures with a hidden back zipper and clasp.²⁷

Price: $99 USD at Lulus — checked on 10 Oct 2025. Available in 10+ colors.

Pros / Cons:

• Pros:
  • Exceptional value for a fully-lined, formal gown under $100.²⁸
  • The A-line cut is universally flattering and comfortable.²⁶
  • Reviewers rave that it’s “so comfortable” and “great for any cup size”.²⁸
• Cons:
  • The back zipper is a very common complaint; many reviews report it breaking or getting stuck.¹²
  • The chiffon fabric has no stretch ²⁸, so getting the waist measurement right is crucial.
  • It runs very long and will almost certainly require hemming.²⁸

Styling Ideas: Pair this airy dress with simple strappy sandals ²⁰, delicate layered necklaces, and a soft shawl or wrap for the ceremony.

Why It Ranks: This dress is our #1 for Value. While the zipper can be a gamble, its sub-$100 price point is unbeatable.²⁸ For a beautiful, classic dress you may only wear once, it provides incredible style for the price, and its quality often impresses shoppers.³⁰

Where to Buy: Lulus

4. Shona Joy La Lune Lace Back Maxi (Best for ‘It Girl’ Style)

Snapshot:

• Best for: Formal, “Summer Formal,” Trend-Forward ¹⁴
• Silhouette: Bias-cut Slip / Column ³¹
• Fabric(s): 58% Lenzing Ecovero, 42% Viscose ⁵
• Length: Maxi ³¹
• Size range: AU 4–16 (US 0–12) ³³
• Care: Hand wash or delicate machine wash (protect trims) ⁵

Key Details: This dress defined the satin slip trend for weddings. It features a graceful cowl neckline and a stunning, fully adjustable lace-up open back.³¹ It is fully lined and bias-cut from a “heavyweight” satin with a “smooth, silky feel” that drapes beautifully.³⁵ The adjustable back means no zipper is needed.³⁶

Price: $360 USD at Revolve — checked on 10 Oct 2025. Available in multiple colors.

Pros / Cons:

• Pros:
  • Stunning “liquid satin” drape thanks to the high-quality fabric.³⁵
  • The adjustable lace-up back allows for a truly custom fit.³¹
  • Made from a sustainable Lenzing Ecovero and Viscose blend.⁵
• Cons:
  • The bias-cut can be unforgiving and may cling to the midsection.
  • A higher price point.
  • Requires delicate hand washing to protect the fabric.³⁶

Styling Ideas: Keep it simple and let the dress shine. Pair with minimalist heels, a delicate back-lace necklace, and wear your hair up to showcase the stunning back detail.¹

Why It Ranks: This dress earns top marks for Fabric Quality and Silhouette. The sustainable Ecovero/Viscose blend is far superior to standard polyester satin, giving it a luxurious drape.³⁵ The adjustable lace-up back ³¹ makes it more versatile and forgiving than a typical zip-up slip dress.

Where to Buy: Revolve, Shona Joy

5. Reformation Silvana Dress (Best for Boho & Ruffles)

Snapshot:

• Best for: Garden Party, “Summer Formal,” Boho Weddings ¹⁴
• Silhouette: Slim fit A-line with cascading ruffles ³⁸
• Fabric(s): 100% Viscose (Lightweight, non-stretch crepe) ³⁹
• Length: Full-length / Maxi ³⁸
• Size range: 0–12 ⁴¹
• Care: Dry clean only ³⁹

Key Details: This dress is pure romance. It embodies the “boho ruffles” trend ¹¹ with its V-neckline, delicate capped sleeves, and cascading ruffles that trim the entire dress.⁴⁰ It’s fully lined, includes a matching scarf that can be worn as a neck-tie ⁴², and has a hidden back zip.⁴⁰

Price: $298 USD at Reformation — checked on 10 Oct 2025. Often available in floral prints.

Pros / Cons:

• Pros:
  • Perfectly on-trend for a romantic, garden party, or “summer formal” wedding.¹¹
  • Made from 100% sustainable viscose, making it lightweight and breathable.³⁹
• Cons:
  • Critically, this dress “runs small,” and sizing up is widely recommended.³⁸
  • Some wearer reviews cite construction issues for the price, like “embroidery pattern isn’t matched… at the seams”.¹³
  • “Dry clean only”.³⁹

Styling Ideas: This dress is made for an outdoor wedding. Pair it with wedge or block heels (to avoid sinking in the grass) ⁴⁴, simple drop earrings, and use the included scarf as a neck-tie or tied in your hair.

Why It Ranks: This is our top pick for Trend Relevance. It perfectly captures the romantic, ruffled aesthetic of 2025 ¹¹ and comes from one of the most in-demand sustainable brands. It’s a “fashion-forward” choice that still feels timelessly appropriate.

Where to Buy: Reformation, Nordstrom

6. Mac Duggal Open Back Ruched Gown (Best for Black Tie)

Snapshot:

• Best for: Black Tie, Formal Gala ¹
• Silhouette: Column / Sheath ⁴⁶
• Fabric(s): Satin (100% Polyester) ⁴⁶
• Length: Maxi (Approx. 62.5″) ⁴⁶
• Size range: 0–12 ⁴⁷
• Care: Dry Clean Only (Asserted)

Key Details: This dress brings the drama. It features a sophisticated high halter neckline that ties at the neck, balanced by a completely open back.⁴⁶ The waist is artfully ruched, releasing into a thigh-high slit. It’s fully lined and has a back zipper.⁴⁶

Price: $398 USD at Nordstrom — checked on 10 Oct 2025.

Pros / Cons:

• Pros:
  • Extremely glamorous and sophisticated; a true “wow” moment dress.⁴⁷
  • The rich jewel tones (like “Plum” and “Olive”) are perfect for formalwear.⁴⁷
• Cons:
  • Some reviews note the fabric can feel “flimsy” for its high price tag.⁴⁸
  • The slit is very high and may require alteration for modesty.⁴⁷
  • Fit is not universal: reviews suggest it “did not look good on straight body type” and may be too short for very tall women.⁴⁷

Styling Ideas: This gown demands an updo. Go for a sleek high bun or ponytail ¹, dramatic drop earrings to complement the high neck, and metallic stiletto heels.²⁰

Why It Ranks: This is the top pick for pure Glamour. For a black-tie or formal evening wedding, this dress is an absolute showstopper. While the fit is specific (best for hourglass figures), its combination of an open back and ruched satin is the epitome of elegance.

Where to Buy: Nordstrom, Mac Duggal

7. Betsy & Adam Petite Ruffled Halter Gown (Best for Petites)

Snapshot:

• Best for: Petite Frames (under 5’4″) ⁸, Formal
• Silhouette: A-Line with Ruffled Skirt ⁸
• Fabric(s): Polyester (Shell & Lining) ⁸
• Length: Maxi (Approx 62″ from center back) ⁸
• Size range: 2P–16P ⁵⁰
• Care: Dry clean only ⁸

Key Details: Finally, a formal gown designed specifically for petite proportions. This dress features a flattering halter neckline with back zip and tie closures, a defined banded waist, and an A-line skirt with a beautiful cascading ruffle and front slit.⁸ It is fully lined.

Price: $239 USD at Macy’s — checked on 10 Oct 2025.

Pros / Cons:

• Pros:
  • Specifically designed and proportioned for petite frames 5’4″ and under.⁸
  • Reviewers find the fit “very flattering” and “so comfortable”.⁸
  • The print is “elegant and not cheap or too blingy”.⁸
• Cons:
  • Even as a petite gown, some reviewers (5’1″–5’3″) note it can be “a little long” and may still require hemming or 2-3 inch heels.⁸
  • Requires a strapless or adhesive bra.⁸
  • One review mentioned a potential zipper issue.⁸

Styling Ideas: A 2–3 inch block or stiletto heel is a must.⁸ Wear your hair up to feature the elegant halter neck and tie-back, and finish with simple silver earrings.

Why It Ranks: This is our #1 for Niche Sizing (Petite). Finding a formal gown that doesn’t require a full reconstruction for a petite frame is a major challenge.⁷ This dress is proportioned correctly in the torso and waist, saving you significant alteration costs.

Where to Buy: Macy’s, Nordstrom

8. House of Harlow 1960 Antonia Gown (Best Unique Silhouette)

Snapshot:

• Best for: Formal, Trend-Forward, “Boho Chic” ⁵²
• Silhouette: Asymmetrical Column ⁵³
• Fabric(s): Heavyweight Satin (97% Viscose, 3% Elastane) ⁵⁴
• Length: Maxi (Approx 62″) ⁵³
• Size range: XXS–XL ⁵⁴
• Care: Dry clean only ⁵⁴

Key Details: This gown is a work of art. It has a unique asymmetrical design with one adjustable spaghetti strap and one draped, off-shoulder strap.⁵⁴ It’s made from a “heavyweight satin” with a hint of stretch (elastane), is fully lined, and has a hidden side zip closure.⁵⁴

Price: $278 USD at Revolve — checked on 10 Oct 2025.

Pros / Cons:

• Pros:
  • A truly unique, architectural silhouette that stands out.
  • The heavyweight stretch-viscose fabric is high-quality, structured, and forgiving.⁵⁴
  • The “Bohemian Chic” brand aesthetic is perfect for a fashion-forward event.⁵²
• Cons:
  • Sizing note warns that it “Runs large. Consider sizing down.”.⁵⁴
  • “Dry clean only”.⁵⁴
  • The unique draping may not suit all bust sizes.

Styling Ideas: Pair with simple nude or metallic sandals.⁵⁵ Sweep your hair to the non-draped side and use minimalist gold jewelry to let the stunning neckline shine.

Why It Ranks: This wins for Fabric Quality and Unique Design. In a sea of simple slip dresses, this gown’s architectural drape is a breath of fresh air. The use of a heavyweight stretch-viscose (not polyester) gives it a luxurious, structured feel.⁵⁴

Where to Buy: Revolve

At-a-Glance: Comparing the Top Sister of the Bride Dresses

Your Ultimate Buying Guide: Sizing, Alterations & Fabric Care

Finding the dress is only half the battle. Here is our expert advice for ensuring a perfect fit on the big day.

Sizing & Fit

• The Golden Rule: A bridal seamstress on Reddit said it best: “Do not under any circumstances buy a dress that is too small. Ever.”.⁵⁶ Formalwear sizing is not street sizing. Always measure yourself and check the brand’s size chart. It’s much easier to take a dress in than to let it out.
• The Movement Test: When you try it on, don’t just stand still. Walk, sit down, and do a little dance in the fitting room.⁵⁶ You’ll be in this dress for 8+ hours.

Alterations

• Timing is Everything: The alteration timeline is crucial. Book an appointment with a trusted tailor 3–4 months in advance, as they get booked solid during peak wedding season.⁵⁷ However, schedule your first fitting for no more than 6–8 weeks before the wedding, and your final fitting 1–2 weeks out.⁵⁶
• Budget Accordingly: As one seamstress noted, “You can’t buy a cheap dress and expect cheap alterations”.⁵⁶ A $99 Lulus dress may need $100 in alterations (hemming, taking in the waist) to look perfect. Factor that into your total budget.

Fabric Care & Quality

• Satin: Be careful! Satin is prone to water spots. Always use a steamer—never an iron—to release wrinkles.⁵⁸
• Chiffon: This fabric is light and airy, but it snags easily. Be careful with jewelry.
• Crepe: Known for its beautiful drape, but often has no stretch.⁴⁰ Fit is key.
• How to Spot Quality: Look for: 1) A full lining. 2) A high-quality fabric composition (like Viscose or Ecovero).⁵ 3) Matched seams on prints.¹³ 4) A smooth, sturdy zipper (not a flimsy, sticky one!).¹²

Sister of the Bride: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can the sister of the bride wear white, off-white, or black?

White, ivory, and champagne are almost always a “no,” as they are reserved for the bride.59 The only exception is if the bride explicitly requests it. Black, however, is now perfectly acceptable and very chic for formal or black-tie weddings.1 When in doubt, just ask your sister!

2. How is the sister’s dress different from the bridesmaids?

If you are in the bridal party, you’ll likely wear a bridesmaid dress.1 If you are not a bridesmaid, your role is to coordinate with the bridal party, not match them.1 A great strategy is to choose a dress in the same color family but a different fabric (e.g., they wear chiffon, you wear satin) or a complementary shade.62

3. Do the same rules apply to the sister of the groom?

Yes! The etiquette is identical.60 The role of the groom’s sister is also to celebrate, support, and look beautiful while coordinating with the wedding’s color palette and formality. Communication with the couple is the most important part.63

4. Where can I find the best plus-size or petite dresses?

Look for retailers with dedicated collections. BHLDN 10, David’s Bridal 9, Azazie 64, and Adrianna Papell 65 all have extensive and elegant plus-size sections. For petites, start with the dedicated petite collections at Betsy & Adam 8, BHLDN 7, and the formalwear department at Nordstrom.66

5. What shoes are best for a formal wedding?

It depends on the venue! For a black-tie ballroom wedding, opt for classic pumps, metallic strappy heels, or elegant evening sandals.20 For a garden, beach, or “summer formal” wedding, a block heel, wedge, or dressy flat is essential to keep you from sinking into the grass all day.44

Sources & Price Verification Log

• BHLDN. “BHLDN Danielle Strapless Side-Slit Stretch Satin Maxi Dress.” (Checked on 10 Oct 2025)
• Revolve. “Norma Kamali Diana Gown.” (Checked on 10 Oct 2025)
• Norma Kamali. “Diana Gown Black.” (Checked on 10 Oct 2025)
• Lulus. “Heavenly Hues Burgundy Maxi Dress.” (Checked on 10 Oct 2025)
• Revolve. “Shona Joy La Lune Lace Back Maxi Dress.” (Checked on 10 Oct 2025)
• Shona Joy. “La Lune Lace Back Maxi Dress.” (Checked on 10 Oct 2025)
• Reformation. “Silvana Dress.” (Checked on 10 Oct 2025)
• Nordstrom. “Mac Duggal Open Back High Neck Side Ruched Gown.” (Checked on 10 Oct 2025)
• Macy’s. “Betsy & Adam Petite Printed Ruffled Halter Gown.” (Checked on 10 Oct 2025)
• Revolve. “House of Harlow 1960 x REVOLVE Antonia Gown.” (Checked on 10 Oct 2025)
• Reddit: r/weddingplanning. “Has anyone gotten bridesmaids dresses from Lulus?” (Checked on 10 Oct 2025)
• Reddit: r/Sezane. “Silvana dress… runs extremely small.” (Checked on 10 Oct 2025)
• Who What Wear. “Wedding Guest Outfit Trends 2025.” (Checked on 10 Oct 2025)
• Reddit: r/wedding. “I’m a bridal seamstress AMA.” (Checked on 10 Oct 2025)

Save This for the Big Day

Finding the perfect sister of the bride dress isn’t just about fabric and fit; it’s about finding a look that makes you feel confident and full of joy as you stand by your sister’s side. Your goal is to complement her, celebrate her, and be the most stylish second-in-command she could ask for.

Which of these dresses was your favorite? Save your top picks to your ‘Wedding Ideas’ board on Pinterest and don’t forget to follow us for more style inspiration!

Let us know your final choice in the comments below!