FORMAL WEAR, how to shine!

There’s a few things that people find especially hard to shop for.  Bathers, jeans & the perfect formal outfit.

Be it an Engagement Party, the Mother of the Bride, a School Ball, Wedding or Graduation, the times that you want to look your very best are sometime the most difficult to navigate. But by following a few simple tips, you’ll be finding your own signature glamour style in no time!

Oh and ladies, let’s stop dressing to impress the ex, his new girlfriend or an extended family member. No more revenge dressing, instead dress for you! When we dress in what we feel comfortable in we shine!

Keep It Simple

Yes, it’s the old less is more.  A great timeless shape or colour will mean your outfit will last you many wears to come, meaning great dollar per wear and less guilt about spending.

A block colour will allow your accessories to shine, but by all means if you love a bold print – don’t hold back!  A neutral shoe & classic accessories will make your frock rock!

The most important thing is for you to feel magical in what you’re wearing.

Roxciss Grace Dress (16-20), Destinations Side Split Dress (14-24), ASOS Curve Lace Drape Sleeve Dress (16-28)

Billie Lace Off Shoulder Dress (18-26), TFNC High Neck Maxi Dress (18-26), ASOS Curve Premium Tulle One Shoulder Dress (16-28)

Giselle Mini Dress (18-26), City Chic Fire Bloom Maxi Dress (XS-XXL), ASOS Curve Embroidered Kimono Midi Dress (16-28)

Great Underwear

If you don’t own some shape wear go out & buy some right now, no matter the type of outfit you will be wearing it will do you all sorts of favours, from comfort & support to a better fitting garment over the top! Of course I am talking about the ‘break a rib’ kind of shape wear but some smoothing knickers or a body con slip can work magic.

It’s great to have your underwear before you go shopping for your outfit & wear them to try on your dress or pants.  That goes for shoes too if you’re planning a long dress or pants where length will matter.

Alterations

In saying that, don’t be afraid to have something you love that doesn’t quite fit right altered.

Taking up a hem or taking in a seam can make your dream dress a reality.  It might also mean that there’s something in your wardrobe that will already work and just needs a tweak to make it new again!

Accessorise!

A basic dress can become so much more with one or two statement accessories, or a cape, shawl or jacket.

Jewellery, bags, shoes & even hair pieces can make an outfit completely different each time you wear it just by shifting up the accessories.

If your dress is already statement enough – it’s better to go a little more low key and choose accessories that don’t walk in the door before you, try a nude/neutral shoe or basic bling that will make your dress shine!

Jo Mercer Umberto Nude Sandals (35-42), Bella Bodies High Waisted Shaping Shorts (S-XXL), ASOS True Decadence Studs,

Jo Mercer Iris Slingback Heels (5-11), Adorne Off the Planet Metallic Clutch, Adorne Victorian Princess Earrings

City Chic Chiffon Shrug (XS-XXL), Taking Shape Memoir Jacket (XXS-XL), Maya Plus Faux Fur Cape (L-XXXL)

Always remember with formal wear to dress for the time of day, season and for the occasion.  If you’re unsure what the dress code is, and it’s not specified on the invitation double check with the host.  You definitely don’t want to be too casual or under dressed.

But above all – have fun with formal wear!  A formal occasion no matter what it is, is generally one that’s going to be a great time – so work with that & party, party, party!

Have you got a go-to formal look that works for you?  Maybe it’s pants rather than a dress?  Or a skirt & top that you love? I’d love to hear what works for you!

Til next time,

Jen x

 

 

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