We’ve all been there; you get invited to an amazing event, but you have to find an equally amazing evening dress. A designer dress is often the best way to go, as these are often better quality and more appropriate for a formal event.
There are always certain things to think about to ensure that you get the best evening dress for you:
1. The Event
Consider the nature of the event and the style of dress that would be right for it. A light cotton maxi dress would be excellent for an outdoor summer occasion, whereas a long elegant silk or velvet gown would be much more fitting for a grand event during colder weather.
2. Length
Think about how comfortable you will feel throughout the night. A very formal event will require at least a knee length dress, if not floor length. However, do make sure you get the right length for you. If you’re a taller or shorter woman, you don’t want a floor length dress that sits on your calves or hangs below your heels.
3. Your body shape
As with any garment, different styles will suit different shapes. Consider you best features, and show them off accordingly. For example, if your arms are your best feature, opt for a strapless evening dress, or one that has spaghetti straps. If you favour your legs more, go for a shorter style dress, that has long arms to add elegance. Perhaps your bust is your best feature, in which case choose a long halter neck dress, where you can show off your best assets whilst still looking chic and sophisticated.
If you’re ever unsure, seek out a local designer boutique, who are bound to have a range of evening dresses for all body shapes. They will often provide a personal service to ensure that you get the right garment for you.
4. Accessories
Even when you find the perfect dress, you must still find the perfect shoes, bag and necklace to go with it. There are no specific rules but as a guide it would be wise to stick to similar colours, or perhaps on contrasting colour. For example, if your evening dress is black, you could team this with red shoes and jewellery to spice up your outfit. Lighter shades will in turn lift the colour of your dress, so don’t be afraid to mix dark colours with light.
If your dress is plain, choose statement accessories to add glamour to your outfit. For example, a plain blue evening dress would look amazing with a sparkling necklace, and embellished shoes. If your evening dress already sparkles, wear plainer accessories, as these will make sure you don’t “over-do” the sparkle, while drawing attention to the dress.
It is worth purchasing all of your items from a smaller Boutique. Here you are more likely to find matching or collaborative items that are bought especially to be worn together, meaning that you can often find the perfect co-ordinating or contrasting colours that are right for your outfit.
Above all, have fun with it. This event is big, and you need a fabulous evening dress to go with it. Find an outfit that looks and makes you feel special to ensure that you will truly be the belle of the ball.
