How to Dress for a Formal Occasion

Here's the scenario: You get your mail and there's an invitation to a dinner dance. Then you see the dreaded and confusing "Formal Attire Required" note at the bottom of the invitation. How can you look red carpet ready without looking like you've put every accessory on in your closet?

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Dress. Formal dresses these days can be floor length, tea length, full, a-line, straight, mermaid cut, strapless, spaghetti strapped and the list goes on. Virtually any shape, or color will work but the key is making sure it will work for your body type. Be realistic and acknowledge that everything dosen't work for everybody.

2. Shoes. Strappy hells work best for formal occasions. Gold or silver dresses up any outfit and will work as a neutral for any color dress.

3. Jewelry. Diamonds and rhinestones are good. Don't go overboard. If you have on dramatic earrings, wear a less dramatic necklace. If your necklace is dramatic, wear less dramatic earrings. One bracelet will add a touch of elegance and class to your outfit.

4. Hair. Again this is personal preference. Curly, straight or even pulled back will be elegant. The key is for it to be neat.

5. Makeup. I can't stress this enough, but less is more. Natural makeup works for evening also. YOu can be a little more dramatic and bold for evening. But unless you're going to a costume party, keep the dramatics to a minimum. Refrain from making yourself look like a drag queen.

6. Purse. A nice small clutch purse will work well for any formal occasion.

7. Last but certainly not least is confidence. Don't leave home without it. It can make or break an outfit.

Tips & Warnings

• For any formal occasion, refrain from wearing denim, spandex, boots and overly revealing outfits. This can send you over the line from classy to trashy!

[drenee]

on 10/21/2008 very well said....