The Outfit
Step1
Select a style and cut that flatters your figure, highlighting your assets and minimizing any problem areas.
Step2
Look for full-length skirts and dresses; lengths that hover around the knee are usually considered semiformal.
Step3
Consider the material and texture. Silk, satin, embroidery, beads, rhinestones, velvet and metallics are all well-suited for formal attire.
Step4
Evaluate your options if you decide to wear a two-piece ensemble. Pair a beaded stretch top with a full-length, slim velvet skirt, or a silk organza blouse with a full satin skirt that hits at your ankles.
Step5
Remember that your dress options are unlimited. Consider spaghetti straps or a jewel-neck collar; a plunging back or a revealing front neckline; and side or back slits. Some events may call for more conservative attire, so consider this when making your selection.
Step6
Choose colors that complement your complexion. Black isn't the only evening color. Deep reds and plums, crisp pastels, and silver and gold can all look equally stunning.
Hair, Makeup and Accessories
Step1
Treat yourself to a manicure, and opt for a pedicure if you'll be wearing open-toed shoes.
Step2
Match your lip and nail color. Do more pronounced lips or dramatic eyes, but avoid the two together or you may appear overly made up.
Step3
Choose a hairstyle that's different from your everyday one. Curl it, gel it in place, or sweep it into a romantic updo or slick ponytail.
Step4
Select earrings that complement the tones and trims in your outfit. Pearls look great with beaded ensembles; diamonds or zirconia accentuate rhinestone-studded and metallic outfits.
Step5
Dangle a bracelet or two from your wrist when baring your arms. A charm bracelet will complement a short-sleeved bodice; a wide gold or rhinestone band will work well with a strapless number.
Step6
Complement a lightweight silk or satin outfit with strappy sandals or slipper mules. Velvet or colored satin pumps will work nicely with heavier materials.
Step7
Select a minibag or small clutch in the same material, color family and trim as your outfit. Black-tie events are no place for roomy purses. All you really need is your compact, lipstick, keys, I.D. and some cash.
Comments
johnmartin78 said
on 7/11/2008 I've been looking around for Dress codes being explained, here you can find all the dress codes (as well as other fashion tips) explained
execstyle.blogspot.com
SUPER HELPFUL for your Husband's dressing habits as well!
-Alana
Rainy1 said
on 5/13/2008 I found a great Ebay site that offers a sexy tuxedo dress, called "The Pretty Girl's Tuxedo". They offer it in different colors. I bought a White one and a Black one, and they are FABULOUS! I don't know the direct link to their Ebay store, but their Ebay ID is:
kgmurphy112
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 Looking polished doesn't stop with the perfect dress. Wear the right undergarments to smooth out your silhouette, stand up straight, and enjoy.