Choosing The Perfect Evening Dress for the Holidays

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The party season is here, and finding the perfect evening dress for the holidays can be frustrating.  There are so many things to think about: what looks good with my body type, colors, accessories, and prices.  It’s no wonder shopping for the perfect dress for the holidays can leave one pulling their hair out.

I have to be honest: when it comes to choosing the perfect cocktail dress or evening dress, one cannot go wrong with black.  It’s the perfect party dress to make a statement, feel confident, and look fabulous, and black typically looks amazing on everyone.  In my opinion, every woman should have a black dress in her wardrobe because it’s not only sexy but versatile as well.  I do, however, understand that one can only wear a black dress to so many holiday events.

Since you cannot wear the same black evening dress to every special occasion, how does one choose the perfect cocktail dress for a special occasion?

I’m in no way a pro when it comes to choosing the perfect dress for a special occasion, but I can share with you a few tips I have learned over the years.

5 Tips For Picking The Perfect Evening Dress for the Holidays

Focus on what you will be comfortable in.  The last thing you want to do is show up to a party feeling self-conscious about what you are wearing.  That’s the beauty of choosing the perfect evening dress or cocktail dress; there are literally hundreds to choose from.  It’s almost natural to worry about the part of your body you want to cover up first, but try to start with choosing a cocktail dress that highlights what you love about your body.  It’s a great way to feel good about what you’re wearing!

Shape

The beauty of being a woman is our shape; there is something beautiful about every shape.  When you look great and feel confident about yourself, it shows.  Which is why it’s important to choose a dress that will suit your shape and flatter your body, but most importantly, choose something you are comfortable wearing.  These are just tips, not to be lived by.  If you are more comfortable with something else, do it! Confidence shows, and it’s better than any fashion rule I have ever seen.

• Slender: If you’re small-framed, be sure to look for a dress that gives you curves.  Dresses that clinch or flare at the waist can be a good choice.  If you are tall and slender, look for a dress that is long and flowing.  Empire waists always do an amazing job showing off the waistline and adding volume to the bottom and top of your body.  Belts are another fabulous way to show off your waist.
• Hourglass: If you have been blessed with an hourglass figure, you are equally proportioned in your hips and bust, with a smaller waist.  Flaunt it, girl!  You can pull just about anything off, and it will flatter your figure, so have fun!
• Pear: When looking for a cocktail dress for a pair-shaped body, focus on emphasizing your upper body.  Strapless dresses do an amazing job of flaunting slender shoulders and pulling attention away from your hips.  Look for a cocktail or evening dress that flows or a nice A-line bottom that is not tight around the hips.  You can also consider being a little different and wearing an amazing skirt and top rather than a cocktail dress.  Which will break up your frame.
• Apple: If you have a thicker waistline and more narrow hips and bust area, look for a dress with an empire or dropped waist.  Try to stay away from large prints around your waist and hips.
• Plus Size: Look for a dress that hugs your curves.  Stay away from baggy, loose-fitting dresses; they often make you look larger.  Besides, flaunt those curves, girl!

Remember, you should always flaunt what you love about your body and wear what you are comfortable in!

Color

When choosing your evening dress color, stick with a color you will be comfortable in and that fits your personality.  Sure, people say dark colors are slimming, but if you are more comfortable in an orange dress because it makes your skin tone glow, do it!  There are no rules, especially when shopping for a dress for the holidays.  Don’t be afraid to wear what you love, and love your body!

Look

Remember, just because you see a category called bridesmaid dresses doesn’t mean you shouldn’t check it out.  I have found some of the best, affable dresses by searching different categories, like prom dresses and bridesmaid dresses.

Accessories

Of course, you can change the appearance of just about any dress with the right accessories.  To get the most out of your holiday evening dress, be sure you start out with the right undergarments, which will help hold everything you don’t want to show.  Before purchasing jewelry, consider what type of neckline your dress will have.  If you’re looking to draw attention to your face, smile, and eyes, be sure to look for large earrings and unique colors of makeup.

Budget

Don’t go broke choosing a dress for the holidays.  Chances are you will wear it once, put it back in your closet, and it will not be worn again for a long time.  Since it’s the holiday season, I’m sure you already have plenty of expenses, so set a budget and stick with it.