From shapes to cuts, colour coordinating and finally finding the perfect outfit without breaking the bank, Staff Writer Marta Bueno Arcos guides us through finding the formal fit of your dreams!
Formal season is finally here! Everyone is excited to have an excuse to procrastinate on their many midterms by dressing up to dance with their friends. With so much to plan and prep prior to the event, the main one being… what to wear? With all the considerations from the changing weather to finding shoes that look killer but won’t kill your feet… One worry remains: Gown options are endless! How to choose?
It's tricky narrowing down your dream dress, with many different styles, cuts and lengths to choose from. Different body types look gorgeous in specific dresses! While a good guide, it's not definitive, an hourglass can wear an empire gown or an apple figure can wear a mermaid… whatever feels most like you! Confidence is key, and you are sure to spend most of your ball laughing, dancing and… well, drinking! When having the time of your life, the last thing anyone needs to worry about is uncomfortable clothes! If dresses are not your style, jumpsuits, rompers, and even tailored suits are other elegant options. Just make sure that your outfit is anywhere from below calf to floor length, as balls usually are black tie!
Regarding materials, try to choose something that feels luxurious and elevated, such as silk, satin, net or velvet. Beading, embroidery or bedazzled accents are welcomed! Avoid overly simplistic dresses and simple fabric as a combo, a simple silhouette in a silky fabric is fine, but pair it with a jersey stretch or a cotton and it may leave you underdressed!
The color of your fit is one of the most important elements! You can either focus on flattering color palettes specific to your traits (A color match test is your fairy godmother, trust me!) If you have no clue where to start, one of the best ports of call is sometimes your mum, she will know what colours have suited you since childhood, and usually she is dead right!
For evening balls I recommend darker shades. Jewel tones, such as ruby red, emerald and sapphire blue, are always a good fit, but if you enjoy vivid colors, a bright pink never fails. It’s also a great idea to try color coordinating with your friends! That doesn’t necessarily mean matching, you might all choose to go in different shades of a specific color or within a color family. For example, cool tones like blue, green and purple go great together. If on the off chance you do want to match with a special someone, you could coordinate your dress color with a tie or a pocket square for a classy look that never fails!
If it makes you feel like a million bucks, wear it! But don't spend a fortune! Rummage around wardrobes, why not steal that dress from your mum? Have a day out with your friends and go thrifting! Some charity shops have a book-by-appointment service for debs and evening dresses, many of which are vintage so perfect for a unique outfit! Just remember to always try on your dresses with your hair and make up (and for some, your fake tan) done, to really get a feel for how you'll look on the occasion!
Whatever you end up choosing for your black tie attire, ensure you feel fabulous, bring a spare pair of shoes, and most importantly, that you have fun!