The ultimate gothic statement dress is a classic that’s been worn by every leading lady from Morticia Addams to Elvira, Mistress of the Dark. It’s one part dark elegance and one part femme fatale. You know it. You love it: the black bell sleeve dress.
If you’ve ever wanted to feel like the heroine (or villain) of your own gothic novel, this vampy, fabulous dress has the drama you’re looking for. Check out these head-spinning options and become the dark enchantress you always knew you were.
Bell Sleeve Mini Dresses
A bell sleeve adds a dash of gothy glamor to an otherwise ordinary black mini dress. This cute option ($70) has all-over velvet and moon and stars details for a cozy autumn look, while this one ($50) in a comfy stretch knit with lettuce trim brings a bit of 90s whimsigoth to your everyday outfits.
This simple black dress ($55) has a mesh panel at the front and a draped handkerchief hem for lots of movement. For a touch more embellishment, try this one ($53) with a square lace-trimmed neckline and a trailing uneven hemline for some ghostly glamor. If you want the drama of black lace bell sleeves, this dress ($38) has the opulent texture you crave at an amazing price.
Accessorize with patterned tights to balance the dramatic sleeves, or go bare legged to emphasize them. Either way, you’re going to make a splash. These mini dresses would look adorable with a pair of platform creepers ($90).
Dressy Casual Dresses
This lacy black dress ($72) with three-quarter length sleeves is a bit less ostentatious than some of the pieces in this collection, but it still has that witchy glamor you’re looking for in a style that’s easy to wear for everyday occasions. It has a sophisticated French aesthetic for when you want to add a little je ne sais quoi to your day. If you prefer a vintage a-line look, this black cocktail dress ($46) has pretty double bell sleeves and a bow detail at the waist, and a full skirt that’s perfect for the dancefloor.
This short dress ($68) has a gorgeous botanical print in soft green, pink, and blue on a black background. The dusty pink velvet ribbon under the bustline makes this one a dark confection that would be perfect for a gothic spin on springtime. For an edgier take on a patterned bell sleeve dress, try this one ($69) with a dramatic red dragon and stained glass design around the hemline and flared sleeves.
For a look right out of the deep, dark woods, check out this black chiffon midaxi dress ($79) that’s alive with a delicate green fern print. With its deep v lace-up neckline and trailing flared sleeves, you’ll feel like a true forest witch.
Black Bell Sleeve Maxi Dresses
This square necked gown ($110) in soft velour with a subtle silver zodiac print will help you bring the stars down to earth. Add in a fishtail shape and a side slit for extra movement, and the fates will definitely align in your favor. If you want a look with some medieval flair, this flocked velvet dress ($102) in a paisley and lace brocade pattern has the romantic details you want with subtle front and side slits for easy movement.
Or you could rock this lacy tiered overdress ($78) designed to be worn over pants or a plain cami dress for an extra layer of gothic aura. It buttons up the front, so you could even wear it open like a duster and layer it over your fall outfits, or wear it as a cover up in summer. Another transparent black dress with a ton of ethereal charm is this one in sheer tulle ($96) with delicate black and gold applique details of flowers and leaves. It has a flattering fit-and-flare silhouette, a lined bodice and skirt, and dainty leaf details at the neckline. Wear it when you want to feel like you just stepped out of a dark fairytale.
For the truly malevolent, this dramatic black maxi dress ($80) with waterfall sleeves and a flowing handkerchief hem is a shroud of nightmares. (It’s a bit transparent though, so you’ll have to wear it with a slip or cami dress underneath.) If you want a bit of contrast, this gown ($60) has sheer sleeves and a black velvet skirt and bodice with a sweetheart neckline, and a fishtail silhouette for that classic vampire aesthetic.
Accessories to Pair with a Black Bell Sleeve Dress
There is nothing subtle about bell sleeves, so embrace the drama with some equally eye-catching accessories. These sleeves tend to emphasize the hands, so in addition to a gorgeous gothic manicure, you might want to wear a statement ring ($28) that will leave a big impression.
Another piece that would go well with this style of dress is a black ribbon choker ($9). Go for a simple slash of black to pair with elaborate lacy dresses, or wear an ornate silver necklace like this one ($60) with a snake detail and spike pendant to contrast a plain black dress. Bracelets will probably get lost in the big sleeves (unless they’re three-quarter length), so focus on pulling the eye to the center of your silhouette with necklaces instead. Drop earrings ($14) would also go well with a long black maxi dress.
Whichever one of these dresses you choose, it’s sure to help you become your most extra self. When you absolutely need to make an entrance, these dresses will draw every eye in the coven. If you love gothic aesthetics but have yet to take the plunge on a black dress with flared sleeves, this collection might just have the one you need to let your inner Morticia shine.