Ah, evening wear. This dress code is particularly stumping, it’s not formal, black tie, cocktail or smart, but somehow, it’s a mix of all these categories. You’d look wrong if you weren’t in a dress, but you don’t want to go too overboard. To put it simply, the term “evening wear” is difficult to dress for. However, never fear, there’s no need to stress! Read on to discover exactly what to look for, what to wear, and how to wear it at your next evening wear event:
Look for length
For length, you’re going to want to choose something that’s a little longer than your traditional cocktail dress. Longer hems look more formal than the shorter alternative, so always opt for either midi or a maxi at your next evening wear occasion. A close-fitting maxi immediately makes you look graceful, elongated and suitably formal.
Style Matters
Your style choice will largely depend on your personal taste, body shape and colouring. For colouring, try and stick to colours that flatter your skin’s undertone. If you’re warm-toned, reds, pinks, creams and golds will look great. If you’re cool-toned, opt for silvers, whites, blues and greens. If you’re unsure of your tone or you want to go classic, you can really never go wrong with black, it’s a classic for a reason!
Once you’ve determined your colour options, you can start to think about the material! There are so many evening dress options out there, you’ll find that you have pretty much every material on offer. Great fabrics to shop for are satin, sequins, tulles and lace, these are all flattering, fall beautifully and add a special shine to all silhouettes.
Next, and arguably most importantly, is the fit. For formal occasions, it’s best to explore off the shoulder, mermaid, A-line and strappy style gowns. You’ll want to find a dress that flatters your boy type, so be sure to try out a few styles before you settle on the right shape for you. Always remember, A-line cuts are the most universally flattering, they accentuate curves and create a feminine silhouette on all shapes and sizes.
Accessorise thoughtfully
Accessories can make or break an outfit, especially at a special event! Now, how you choose to enhance your outfit should really depend on your style or desired aesthetic:
Minimal: For the ever so stylish minimalist, accessories are pretty easy. Simply opt for stiletto heels or a strappy shoe in a neutral or black tone, some simple stud earrings and a delicate chain necklace in the same metal. The jewellery gives you enough detail to look put together, but not enough to overpower your paired back look!
Classic, with a twist: Sometimes, you feel somewhere in between a classic and trendy look. For someone who loves to dress in beautiful, basic pieces, accessories can be everything! To enhance a simple, classic gown, opt for chunky gold jewellery, it’s hands down the most stylish way to go. Opt for weighty gold hoops, a chain necklace and bracelet, and stacked rings with the odd gemstone – you’ll look amazing.
Bohemian: For boho babes, accessories can get a little more playful. Switch up the material matter and find yourself some beautiful resin pieces to contrast with your metalware! Grab a pair of tortoise resin hoops, a few organic shaped bangles and some resin rings to mix in with gold and silver pieces for a bohemian goddess vibe.
Statement: For style queens who love a statement, you can go all in! Find big, eye-catching earrings, layer dainty necklaces or go for a statement, trendy velvet headband to stand out from the crowd.
Evening wear might not be the simplest dress code out there, but once you get styling you’ll be having the most fun putting your look together, promise!