Formal gowns come in all different shapes and sizes. Whether she is attending a wedding or going to a ball, a formal gown is an important addition to any woman's wardrobe. Formal gowns come in virtually any color, but the most popular color is black. Gowns should suit the woman's body type as well as be appropriate for her age. Many specialty stores, such as David's Bridal and Estelle's Dressy Dresses, will help patrons find the best formal gown for them.
The halter-style bodice reveals the shoulders and back while covering the bust. The neckline sweeps up and around the neck of the wearer. Skirts can range from A-line to sheath, as virtually any skirt can go with a halter bodice.
Strapless
Strapless gowns literally have no straps to hold them up. Therefore, they are snug in the bust. The most common skirt with a strapless gown is an A-line skirt, followed by a ballerina skirt. However, virtually any skit will work with a strapless bodice.
Sleeveless
Sleeveless gowns are gowns that do not have any sleeves; however, they do have straps of varying widths. Sheath dresses, described below, are most commonly sleeveless gowns.
Sheath
Sheath gowns are those that fit snugly. Often times, they have a slit on the side, in the front or in the back to make it easier to walk in.
Ballerina
Ballerina dresses are dresses with immense, puffy skirts. They most commonly have strapless or sleeveless bodices.
A-Line
An A-Line dress can have any bodice but must have a skirt that widens as it goes toward the ankles. It is in the shape of the letter "A", which is how the dress type got its name.
The halter-style bodice reveals the shoulders and back while covering the bust. The neckline sweeps up and around the neck of the wearer. Skirts can range from A-line to sheath, as virtually any skirt can go with a halter bodice.
