Behold, the Best Formal Dresses From Old Navy's New Occasions Line

Uh, Old Navy's new collection of formal dresses legitimately stunned me.

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If your TikTok feed looks anything like mine, chances are you've been seeing tons of Old Navy hauls as of late. Yep, the brand that brought us those matching Fourth of July tees for the whole family (lol) in the early 2000s is becoming one of the internet's favorite places to score everything from affordable denim to activewear that looks much more expensive than it is.

Speaking of fashion that looks pricey without stressing your wallet: I've gathered you all here today to discuss The Occasion by Old Navy, their new range of dresses designed for special occasions like weddings, graduations, proms—basically any fancy event under the sun. The entire collection? So elevated to the point where it's competing with some of your favorite places to spend $250 on a dress...except nothing from the line is over $65. Yeah, my jaw legitimately dropped.

Satin polka dots? Bubble hem minis? There's enough of both to go around, thanks! So if you're looking for a special occasion dress or two for your busy summer social calendar, know that I've scrolled through every piece from Old Navy's latest drop to find the formalwear that'll rack up compliments all wedding season long. Oh, and best of all, every piece is actually budget-friendly, which means you'll have some spending money left over for some ultra-chic accessories.

If you just so happen to be attending any of the same weddings as I am this summer, mind your own business when you see me wearing this on repeat. As someone who has always been partial to slinky slips, I'm envisioning this polka dot dress dazzling at a daytime wedding that inevitably turns into an all-night party.

Sometimes the sexiest dresses are the ones you least expect. Case in point: This flutter-sleeve maxi doesn't show much skin, but its keyhole neckline and body-skimming fit make this a sultry addition to your closet. And we haven't even touched on this red-hot fiery hue yet!

As someone with a birthday that falls smack dab in the heat of summer, I'm always on the lookout for special occasion dresses that can withstand soaring temperatures. Even though I won't be blowing out the candles until July, I'm already eyeing this mini for sweltering evening festivities. The bubble hem and adjustable tie straps are perfect for dancing all night long, while the shiny fabric should disguise any sweat.

I truly can't tell you what I love most about this dress. Is it a) the tonal polka dots? Could be. Maybe it's b) the flutter sleeves? Why not? Or perhaps it's c) the knee-high slit, which I can picture perfectly flowing in the breeze during a waterfront wedding reception? You know what, let's just go with d) all of the above.

Can someone please invite me to a garden party so I have an excuse to buy this set? (Sold separately, FYI, so here's the matching top!) Not only is it doused in a floral print that's just screaming, "More finger sandwiches and tea, please!" but it's one of the most versatile picks in this collection. Once the party's over, pair the skirt with a casual tee, or add the top with your trusty denim.

I'm of the belief that everyone needs a little black dress in their closet. After all, it's easy to style and fits the dress code for nearly any semi-formal event. If your go-to LBD has seen better days, snag this darling fit-and-flare option, complete with adjustable bow straps and—wait for it—pockets! Of course, if you're not in the market for black, it's also available in polka dots and a pretty floral print.

Cottagecore lovers, this one's for you! The ruffles, floral print, and drapey shoulders feel like a modern spin on those drool-worthy gowns from Bridgerton. Whether you get this for your sister's graduation or a backyard wedding, there's no denying that you'll be the absolute diamond of the season.

Some events—whether it's a wedding ceremony in a church, a work gala, or a family graduation—call for a formal dress that's a little more covered up. Enter this stunning maxi, available in four colors. The high neck ensures you'll be up to dress code, while the knotted detail in the front perfectly defines the waist. A win-win situation, if you ask me.

Madison McGee is a commerce editor at Hearst Magazines. For the past year, she has contributed shopping content, gift guides, product testing, and deals coverage across Hearst’s portfolio, which includes Good Housekeeping, Women’s Health, Men's Health, House Beautiful, Elle, Town and Country, Esquire, Country Living, Oprah Daily, and more. Prior to joining Hearst, she was a staff writer at BuzzFeed and worked in book publishing. Madison is a graduate of the University of Mississippi’s journalism program, and holds a Masters in Publishing from New York University. When she’s not scouting out the best deals, she can be found reading, cheering on the Baltimore Ravens, or exploring New York City’s indie bookstores.

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