Target Strapless Wrap-Front Chiffon Maxi Dress in Blue Ocean

Wrap-Front Dress
An Empire waist, a full chiffon skirt and a just-above-the-floor hem combine to create a truly comfortable dress that would fit in at a beach wedding or a ballroom bash. Bonus: It's got pockets, so when the bride asks you to hold on to her lipstick and the notes for her toast, you'll have somewhere to put them.

$70; Target.com
Sleeveless silk dupioni dress

Sleeveless Silk Dupioni Dress
This dress's just-above-the-knee hemline and soft blush color are demure, but its scoop neckline compliments your décolletage so you don't feel like you're fading into the crowd. Each bridesmaid can tie the chiffon sash to her liking.

$150; AnnTaylor.com
Ruched satin minidress

White by Vera Wang Ruched Satin Minidress
This zippy little number proves that "dress with a bow" does not necessarily translate to "ideal for Little Bo Peep." The swooping, sculptural knot on one shoulder, the figure-hugging silhouette and the unexpectedly acidic green fabric create a look that's totally modern.

$158; DavidsBridal.com
Blue chiffon dress

Blue Chiffon Dress
The halter neckline and accordion pleats of this sea blue dress give it a strong vintage vibe. Its high waist and full skirt provide the opportunity for lots of high-quality twirling on the dance floor.

$99; Donna-Morgan.com

Magenta Cotton-Silk Faille Cap-Sleeve Dress
Looking to cover your shoulders at an outdoor event but afraid of seeming frumpy? This dress's clean lines and vivid color are anything but boring.

$168; JCrew.com
Black satin dress

Black Satin Dress
This is a dress made for a black-tie wedding. Its deep V-neck and pencil skirt call subtle attention to your curves, its sloping off-the-shoulder sleeves frame your collar bone, and the sizable ruffle on the front of the skirt evokes a regal, Victorian ball gown but steers clear of costume territory.

$158; MaggyLondon.com
One-shoulder taffeta dress

ML Monique Lhuillier Bridesmaids One-Shoulder Taffeta Dress
This dress's boned bodice ensures you'll look slim (and stand up straight!) as you precede the bride down the aisle. It also has a flawless wedding pedigree: Its designer, Monique Lhuillier, is a favorite of celebrity brides and specializes in designing figure-flattering dresses and gowns.

$178; Nordstrom.com
Strapless georgette gown

Lauren by Ralph Lauren Dress Collection Strapless Georgette Gown
The slender, soft cut of this flowing column dress lengthens every silhouette. Its shirred bodice emphasizes your bust while providing a good amount of coverage.

$194; Bloomingdales.com
Necklace halter gown

Necklace Halter Gown
This light mesh dress has an unmissable built-in accessory: a halter neck made of strands of faux pearls. The glittery beads draw eyes upward toward your face (and make buying a necklace totally unnecessary!).

$99; DavidsBridal.com

Next: The five biggest swimsuit myths—busted!

Published 05/31/2012