Have you received an invitation to a wedding, charity event or special formal event and need a formal dress? Rejoice! It's not every day you get to wear a gorgeous dress, but don't let your excitement turn into stress. By following our tips for choosing a formal dress, you'll be celebrating in style in no time.
Check the invitation
The first step in deciding what to wear to any formal event is to read the invitation carefully for clues about the formality and location of the event.
A black-tie wedding or a charity event at an elite country club requires a formal dress with a level of elegance and sophistication. A military ball or formal corporate event may require discreet formal dress. Don't forget to also consider the climate of the event location.For cool, air-conditioned events, evening dresses with sleeves are a stunning and practical choice, while warm-weather outdoor charity events may call for a formal dress, albeit short, sleeveless or off-the-shoulder.
Choose a style
Evening dresses for formal events come in a variety of styles. Choose the one that suits your personality and makes you feel great! Ideal for almost all body types, A-line dresses provide a soft silhouette while still boasting sophisticated style.
An elegant dress with an empire waist and a chiffon skirt is a bow-legged girl’s best friend. Also ideal for most body types, ball gowns with layers of chiffon are a great way to channel your inner princess and bring a regal vibe to your formal event. In the mermaid or trumpet style, emphasizing the curves of the figure with dramatic chic, you can feel a kind of outrageousness.
Select color
Choose a color that complements your skin tone and expresses your style to look confident at your next formal event. Lilac-pink dresses are perfect for formal events. Rich burgundy or navy formal dresses are not only on trend, but are also great for showing your support and patriotism at military balls.
Gold or silver dresses are perfect for shining at special awards ceremonies. Still not sure which color to choose? A classic black dress is always in fashion.
Dive into the details
Evening dresses for formal occasions offer plenty of details that make you stand out from the crowd, from the subtle shimmer created by subtle sequin accents to intricate embroidery.
A formal dress with minimal beading on the bodice can add just the right sparkle to your special evening, while a dress with illusion lace details will add a romantic vibe. To best decorate your formal dress, choose details that highlight your personal style, but remember that less is more if your formal look is chic and elegant.
Find the right fabrics
The last tip for choosing a formal dress is to choose the fabric. Lace has a charming appeal, while satin paints a picture of pure sophistication. Tulle is a whimsical and youthful style. Body-hugging jersey is snug but comfortable, flattering your figure and keeping you cozy in cooler areas. To choose the best formal dress, find a fabric that suits you and your style.
When deciding what to wear to formal events, it's easy to get caught up in thoughts of grandeur and glamour. However, choosing a dress for formal events can be a fun and refreshing shopping experience if you follow the tips above for choosing formal dresses.