Formalwear has always been about rules—long gowns, structured tailoring, stiff fabrics, and a very narrow idea of what's "appropriate." But Gen Z and Millennials are rewriting that script entirely. Today's formal dress code isn't about tradition—it's about self-expression, inclusivity, comfort, and creativity.

Whether you're attending a wedding, gala, prom, or work event, formalwear no longer needs to feel outdated or restrictive. In fact, one quick scroll through TikTok or Pinterest, and you'll see exactly how younger generations are turning formal dresses into bold fashion statements that reflect personality, not just propriety.

Here's how Gen Z and Millennials are shaking things up—and how you can join them.

1. Comfort Is Non-Negotiable

Gone are the days when women wore heels they couldn't walk in and dresses they couldn't breathe in. For Gen Z and Millennials, if it's not comfortable, it's not happening.

What's Trending:

  • Stretch fabrics like jersey, modal, and crepe that move with your body
  • Soft tailoring instead of stiff corsets or tight bodices
  • Chunky heels, platforms, and stylish flats are replacing painful stilettos

It's not about dressing down—it's about dressing smart. A formal dress for women in 2025 should make you feel as good as you look.

2. Genderless and Fluid Fashion

Gender norms? Not here. Both generations are embracing fluidity in fashion, with formalwear that isn't defined by binary labels.

Think:

  • Suit jackets with dresses
  • Masculine cuts styled femininely—and vice versa
  • Androgynous formal outfits with layered accessories
  • Women wearing tuxedos and men wearing silk gowns—because why not?

Formalwear is becoming less about dressing for others and more about dressing for yourself.

3. Colour Over Convention

Where older generations often stuck with neutrals or classic colours, Gen Z and Millennials are diving headfirst into bold hues and unexpected tones—even at black-tie events.

Popular Colours in 2025:

  • Emerald green
  • Burnt orange
  • Butter yellow
  • Deep lavender
  • Rich metallics (yes, even for daytime wear)

Formal dresses today aren't afraid to stand out—and that's exactly the point.

4. Sustainability Over Fast Fashion

This generation cares where their clothes come from—and how they're made. Formalwear isn't exempt. The rise of ethical, slow fashion has led to more people choosing:

  • Sustainable fabrics like organic cotton, bamboo, or recycled satin
  • Rentals or second-hand gowns for one-time events
  • Shopping from ethical brands that prioritise fair wages and eco-friendly production

Even better? Many online stores now offer formal dresses for women that are both glamorous and guilt-free.

5. Social-First Shopping Habits

Shopping for formalwear now starts with a hashtag. Gen Z and Millennials often turn to TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest before even opening a browser.

What They're Doing Differently:

  • Searching “#formalwearaesthetic” to get outfit inspo
  • Buying from small UK-based designers discovered online
  • Looking for viral dresses that stand out in photos and videos
  • Leaving traditional retailers for Instagram boutiques or custom Etsy finds

Whether it's a formal dress for a wedding, a party, or prom, it's not about what's in-store—it's about what's trending online.

6. Personal Style Over Dress Code

One of the boldest shifts? The rejection of one-size-fits-all dress codes. Instead of conforming, Millennials and Gen Z are asking:

“How can I make this event reflect me?”

This means:

  • Wearing formal dresses with trainers (and making it fashionable)
  • Choosing short dresses for black-tie events—gasp!
  • Layering in unexpected pieces like oversized jackets, corsets, or knee-high boots
  • Adding statement accessories: gloves, bold earrings, or headpieces

It's formal—but make it you.

Final Thoughts: Formal Doesn't Mean Boring Anymore

If you grew up thinking formalwear meant stiff fabrics and dated styles, it's time to forget everything you thought you knew.

Gen Z and Millennials are proving that you can wear something elegant, comfortable, and true to your identity—all at once. Whether you're rocking a statement suit, a sleek minimalist dress, or a thrifted gem, today's formalwear celebrates uniqueness.

So the next time you're shopping for an event, skip the stuffy rules and find something that feels like you. Whether it's from a high-end label or your favourite independent designer, remember this: the best formal dresses for women are the ones that let them show up as their boldest selves.