If you've ever panicked over getting a party invitation that stipulates attire requirements, fear no more. Today's proverbial "laws of fashion" aren't as strict as they were in the past. However, though no one is likely to have a fit over whatever party dress you slip into, there are a few fashion guidelines that still apply today. Simply knowing the time of day the party will be held is often the most helpful information you need to select the right dress for the occasion.
FORMAL DRESSES
Day Dresses
Whether attending a luncheon, baby shower or afternoon tea, daytime party dresses tend to be more conservative in cut and fabric. Hem lengths that fall just at the knee and necklines that reveal a minimal amount of cleavage are appropriate for any day occasion. Sheath dresses that skim the body without hugging curves, circle-skirted tea-length dresses that hide wide hips, and casually cut wrap dresses that create the illusion of a waist are appropriate styles for daytime events. Dresses cut from non-shiny, less formal fabrics like solid-colored cotton, printed lawn or embroidered eyelet are ideal for day wear.
Cocktail Dresses
For parties held after 5 p.m. or events that will run into evening hours, such as an afternoon wedding, cocktail dresses are appropriate attire. Cocktail dress options are constructed from formal fabrics, such as a shiny charmeuse or an embroidered tulle, and are often embellished with flashy trim such as beadwork, sequins or lace. However, dresses that incorporate a combination of trims can look overworked and cheap. Many cocktail dresses are cut to reveal a lot of leg and cleavage, but dresses that do both cheapen the look. The classiest cocktail dresses pair plunging necklines with hemlines that reach the knees or mid-thigh hems with modest necklines like a boat neck and are regarded as the best party dresses.
Formal Dresses
Party invitations that request formal or black-tie attire open the door for more elaborate dress selections. While embellished cocktail dresses provide perfectly acceptable options, longer and more elaborate gowns may be more appropriate. Formal dresses typically have hemlines that brush the floor and come in a variety of cuts that flatter most body shapes. However, full-skirted ball gowns are so far removed from current fashion trends that they are really only appropriate as wedding gowns or prom dresses.
Upcoming graduation festivities, weddings, proms, formals as well as business dinner gatherings often entail the party dress. The event dictates the type of dress appropriate for the occasion such as the silhouette, dress length, color and fabric. Purchasing the evening dresses from reputable locations reduces shopping related stress and allows you to focus on accessorizing the party dress as well as looking forward to the event.
FORMAL DRESSES
Department Store Retailers
Return policies, payment type and variety are a few advantages to shopping at department store retailers like Macy's, Bloomingdale's, Saks Fifth Avenue, Dillard's or Nordstrom. Showcasing party dresses in different visual merchandising displays, gives you the opportunity to select the appropriate style for a specific event. Certain stores like Bloomingdale's also offer a personal shopper. The professional shopper selects specific styles prior to your arrival. Check with the department stores for specific fees such as purchase minimums.
Specialty Retail Shops and Boutiques
Mom and pop stores as well as boutiques offer personalized customer service when shopping for party dresses. Sales representatives act as a separate set of eyes while you try on several garments. The sales associate can also gather more styles while you are fitting different dresses. For example, shops like The Bridal Boutique have a location in Columbia, Maryland as well as online representation allowing you to request an appointment prior to your arrival. Moms shopping for frilly kids party dresses can visit TutuGirl online, which offers a variety of ballerina inspired dress styles. Keep in mind, boutiques often do not offer returns and sales are final.
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