Attending a special event, whether a wedding or a party, is exciting, but choosing the right dress, shoes, and accessories for it might be more challenging than it seems. Every one of us wants to shine on such occasions, but we often ignore a few important things to consider when choosing a dress.
For example, it’s easy to forget your body type needs and eye a dress that does not embrace your features simply because it looks outstanding on the model. If you shop online, sites choose a certain type of body to showcase their dresses, which in most cases does not include body diversity.
In addition, we must always consider comfort when wearing a dress. Despite what influencers tell and show us, such a piece should not make you uncomfortable. Dresses that are too tight or made of itchy materials will most likely interfere with you having fun.
So, how do we choose the perfect dress that fits and meets our standards? Let’s find out.
1. Understand the event
While it seems like all occasions are the same, each requires a different type of dress. For example, cocktail parties are known to have a particular dress code, usually with elegant knee-length dresses and fitted silhouettes. On the other hand, a graduation ceremony asks for formality, so fit-and-flare dresses are best for such occasions.
Of course, you have to be pickier when it comes to a bridesmaid dress. Usually, the bride will provide some info about the formality requirements, but it’s best to keep it simple, have a different neckline than the bride’s, and make sure the dress isn’t overly accessorized.
2. Consider the weather
There’s nothing worse than participating in an event and hyperventilating or freezing because you chose the wrong type of dress. Considering the weather might be one of the most important elements of choosing a dress. You may be used to getting summer dresses, but winter dresses require long sleeves and warmer materials to keep you comfortable.
In addition, consider the length of the dress if it’s supposed to rain. Sometimes, wearing a mini dress with knee-high boots is the best way to face the weather, and it can also look elegant, especially with high heels.
3. Learn to accessorize
While choosing few to no accessories is also acceptable, especially if this makes you feel better, sometimes a simple belt or necklace is sufficient to complete the look. Of course, you don’t have to buy anything expensive to look good on you, just research what jewelry pairs best with your clothes.
For example, silver jewelry goes well with clothes in black, dark navy, or burgundy. On the other hand, golden jewelry compliments your figure best when accompanied by clothes in plain black or white. However, these factors also depend on your skin and hair color, as well as your personal preferences.
4. Remember about your body type
Knowing your body type and keeping it in mind when buying a dress is the best way to get the perfect one. There are four predominant body types, and each silhouette requires a different type of dress that looks flattering on you.
- For an hourglass body, choose dresses with V-necklines, cinched-in waistlines, and form-fitting tops. Avoid baby doll or empire waist dresses.
- For a pear or triangle body shape, select strapless tops and A-line or full skirts. Full poofy skirts or super-short hemlines might not be the best in this matter.
- For an athletic body, get a dress with embellishments, ruffles, or other volume-increasing details. Strapless dresses or short hemlines are to be avoided.
- For the apple body type, consider belted styles, swing dresses, and wrap dresses. Try not to wear a dress with horizontal lines or fitted tops.
5. Get out of your comfort zone
Sometimes, you may struggle to find the perfect dress because you limit your searches. This usually happens when we’re used to wearing plain dresses in neutral colors because we often consider dresses with models and unique styles are not made for us.
However, you’ll be surprised to see how much confidence such a dress can give you. Don’t be afraid of patterns, ruffles, and asymmetrical details, especially when you’re not a fan of accessories, because special dresses will do their job on their own.
6. Shop ahead of the event
Waiting until the last minute might not be the best idea, especially when it’s a big event you’ll be attending. Take a few weeks or months before the event to search thoroughly on websites and shops, so you’ll have time to adjust the dress if necessary. Sometimes, alterations are all you need to get that seamless fit.
If your dress needs alterations, you need to schedule them early before the event so the seamstress has enough time to get them right. You’ll also need to do another fitting after the first one to ensure everything’s just as planned.
7. Think about your budget
Last but not least, consider your budget. Whether you want to splurge on your dress or limit your spending, it’s best to start with a price range when searching to limit your research. Know that you can find cheap dresses that look good, but you’ll either have to dedicate more time in searching or sacrifice the material’s quality by opting for a cheaper fabric.
Cotton is affordable and easy to find, but linen, wool, and satin dresses are a bit pricier due to their textile value. In addition, some dresses require more and heavier fabric than others, including structured dresses and heavy winter garments. You can get into detail about these features of a dress to understand the price.
Did these tips help you?
We’ve all been there tirelessly looking for a dress that will fit the event and our bodies, but we never seem to find something appropriate. That’s because we tend to forget about our body type or even understand the event properly. After all, we’re distracted by all the beautiful models on fashion websites. So, before buying a dress, make a list of these tips to help you ease through the entire shopping experience.
Tina Hudson is the voice behind Fashion Ticky, a fashion blog she started featuring the latest trends in fashion and beauty. With her finger on the pulse of what’s hot each season, Tina shares outfit ideas, makeup tutorials, and styling tips to help her devoted readers develop their own fabulous sense of fashion. When she’s not blogging, you can find this savvy stylist hunting for vintage treasures and snapping Instagram-worthy travel pics with her French bulldog in tow.