Finding the perfect dress for a special occasion can be an arduous task. You want to look your best, and stay energized throughout the day. Every woman has different tastes and wants to make sure that they find the right clothes for the occasion. Whether it’s a cocktail dress, wedding gown or evening gown, you need to know what suits you and where to find what you’re looking for. If you are currently looking to find the ideal dress for your body shape and your upcoming occasion, we’ve got some suggestions that can help you get started on your search.
Scour The Web
Online shopping continues to get easier and more accommodating for all customers, especially now that the pandemic has changed the way we do almost everything in life. From the comfort of your living room, you can visit several websites and compare their products and prices before you buy. Some sites will even offer free shipping and returns if you don’t find what you are looking for, and others will send you a few sizes so that you have a few options in case what you chose doesn’t quite fit.
The benefit of searching online is you can get very specific with your requirements. You can find homecoming dresses that give confidence and that are semi-formal (unlike prom dresses and cocktail dresses). You can often choose your color and buy accessories such as bags, jewelry and shoes at the same time.
Understand The Occasion
In order to find the ideal dress, you need to know what everyone else will be wearing. If it’s a cocktail party, you’ll want to find options that will match the occasion and attire requirements. For some events, you may need to be mindful about how much skin you can show off, such as bare shoulders or your back. If it’s a black-tie event that means no jeans, sneakers or open-toe shoes.
One handy suggestion is looking at inspo boards on Pinterest where you can find not only outfit recommendations, but an entire look for your event.
Determine Your Budget
You can find clothing that fits most price points, so take some time to think about how much money you want to spend. If you think you’ll wear the dress on other future occasions, it may be worth spending a little more. At the end of the day, you often get what you pay for, although top brands sometimes charge a lot more.
It may be that you need to save money or you will only be wearing the dress once. You may be able to find places where you can hire quality affordable clothing rather than buying new clothes. Also, check out charity shops or secondhand shops as you can often find a bargain there. Many items will be as good as new, and may only have been worn once.
Know Your Body Shape
It’s important to understand your body shape and how it affects what is going to suit you best. Gone are the days when we approach style in a “one size fits all” manner. These days it’s all about finding what works best for you, regardless of what the trends dictate. Here are five body shapes:
Slim: This figure has a small bust, slim waist and flat stomach with thin legs.
Hour-glass: This body shape has a small bust, flat stomach and curvy waist making their body very proportionate.
Apple body shapes suit empire line dresses with diagonal ruching across the body.
Rectangle body types are best wearing high necklines that help define their bust area.
Pear body shapes best suit A-line skirts such as circle skirts because these sit at the widest part of pear-shaped bodies (hips).
Try It On
Take the time to try on multiple dresses before buying one. Chances are, you might like more than one. If you buy online, get several. Before you do this make sure you are familiar with the return policy. If you visit a shop, a second opinion can be hugely beneficial. Ask the shop assistant, or – better still- bring a friend along who can give their honest opinion.
Take note of the fabric and fit of the dress you try on. Keep in mind that some fabrics have more give than others and it’s important to try sitting down during your session. The neckline of the dress should lay flat against your skin without any pulling or gapping around the neck and chest areas. If it’s a strapless style, you want it to stay up on its own without being too tight.
Think About Color
It’s possible to see color specialists who can give you a chart showing you which shades will match your skin tone and eye color. The color of the garment should not be too close to your skin tone, otherwise, it might make you look washed out.
For example, someone with fair skin should avoid wearing pale pink or light-colored dresses whilst pastel colors will do well on those who have darker complexions. People who have darker skin should stick to colors like maroon or brown as these will bring out their eyes better.
Choose Accessories
Don’t just view the dress in isolation: view the big picture. Look at the footwear you intend to wear, plus the bag and jewelry. You don’t want your dress to clash with any of these accessories. Consider your preferred style of bag and maybe even think about a statement piece that can make your entire outfit pop. Picking the right type of shoe is essential. High heels will always dress up any ensemble, but if you know you are going to feel discomfort after a while, finding an elegant pair of flats or low heels can also be quite beautiful.
With the help of some research and planning ahead, you will be able to find the perfect dress for you. No matter your style, your body shape, or the occasion, there are options for everyone and every body.
