11 affordable dresses under $200 suitable for any special occasion

Got an invitation to a formal event but don’t know what to wear? Check out these 11 headturners that you will definitely love

By Cheng Jee Yan - 14 Apr 2016

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If you’re always stressed over what to wear when you receive invitations to weddings, cocktail parties and black-tie events, this guide is for you. These formal events have a sneaky way of popping up when you least expect them to (read: always, unless you're a full-time socialite).

It’s such a huge challenge to find something that looks luxurious and still keep within budget. What’s more, these events are often one-off so it doesn’t make much economical sense to spend so much on one dress that we will might never wear again.

If the main reason your wardrobe is lacking in the formal dress department is cost, we’re here to help. Believe it or not, VIP event dresses can be affordableÃ¢â‚¬â€and we’ve found 11 beauties that can prove it. Suitable for anything from a glamourous cocktail to a sophisticated soirée, here are our top 11 picks that will make you look great and won’t break your bank!

1. Polyester tie waist dress, $88.18 from ASOS

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Got invited to a garden wedding? This fun and flirty pieces was made for it!

2. Polyester lace dress, $139 from Zara

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A figure flattering silhouette with lace and mesh detailing; this dress is the perfect choice for an after-work soiree.

3. Scallop Sequin Bustier Midi by Rare, $126 from Topshop

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Turn heads at this season parties with this body hugging sequin number.

4. Polyester metallic lamé pleated midi dress, $129 from Topshop

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Easy-to-wear fit and flare dress featuring gorgeous metallic lamé, in the season’s hottest pink.

5. Polyamide and cotton lace midi dress, $99.90

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Swap out your usual sexy black lace for a softer, more feminine nude hue.

6. Polyester two-tone gown, $199 from Mango

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Have a black-tie event to go to? This classy monochromatic dress will do the trick.

7. Polyester gown with mesh panels, $156.35 by Morgan & Co

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Need something sexy yet modest? This dress with sheer illusion-mesh panels at the neck and sides lend just the right amount of seductive elements to the gown without being over the top.

Buy this at Sheshops

8. Satin twill fabric dress, $143.30 by Chi Chi, from ASOS

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This high-low hem off-shoulder dress is all ready for that champagne cocktail brunch on Sunday.

9. Chiffon pleated maxi dress, $154.32 by Little Mistress from ASOS

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This billowing maxi is a definite stand out. You can either wear it with straps or as a bustier tube.

10. Sequin polyester gown, $189 from Mango

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This sophisticated piece is detailed with shimmering sequins on the bodice and a detachable gold-toned belt at the waist for a luxurious finish.

11. Polyblend plunge front maxi dress, $ by Twin Sisters, from Revolve

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Step out in style with this glamorous slinky gown that achieves high-end appeal with fast fashion ease.