All you stylish fashionistas out there are probably wondering why on earth there is a need for instructions on how to dress for a party. Surely you just head to your nearest designer wear department store, pick up the dress that sparkles the most with the highest price tag, some matching heels, a contrasting handbag and you’re done.
Well, not all of us can afford the luxury of the latest top designer items – and frankly, they are not always the best. There is more to selecting a perfect party outfit than just having Dolce and Gabbana inscribed on your label.
Do Your Research
If you want to be ahead of the fashion curve with your party outfit, then you need to know a thing or two about the latest looks. Get inspiration from style magazines, online style websites and the latest runway shows. You can also refer to Twitter for the latest advice from style icons such as Rachel Zoe and Emma Watson. Once you have gathered together your ideas, it is time to start shopping.
The Browsing Stage
There is no harm in starting your search in a top designer department store such as Selfridges and Harvey Nichols. This again helps you gain inspiration and shows you the latest styles that are available to purchase, fresh from the catwalks. It’s also great to try on these luxurious garments as this will have one of two effects. The first is that it will set the bar for your perfect party outfit. If you find something that really suits you, then you know what type of style and fit to go for. The second outcome is that you will find that none of the dresses are quite as spectacular as you imagined.
You then have a number of options. If the designer dresses were for you, try designer outlets, where you can get fabulous garments at a fraction of the price. Be aware that many of the items are last season’s looks, but if you are going for something plain, such as the Little Black Dress option, this shouldn’t have too much of an effect.
The other place to try is the high street. Of course, these are clothing stores that knock out thousands of garments quite cheaply. The down side is that there is more of a risk of the dreaded same dress moment occurring as they produce many more of the same items to reach the masses. On the plus side, high street stores are getting much better at reproducing the latest looks a lot more quickly. You are likely to be able to find items very similar to the designer dresses you tried on and as long as they fit you correctly, will look every bit as good.
Proceeding to Purchase
When you are settled upon the look you want to achieve, it is time to move to purchase. Before you do, check to see whether you can find further discounts online to help you get additional money off at the store you wish to buy from. Any savings can be put towards accessories.
Accessorising
Accessorising is the key to delivering the final touches to the perfect outfit. You must get a sense of what accessories will match your outfit. Team leather and beads with bohemian looks, silver and sparkles with black and satin outfits and pearls with ‘50s floral styles. Accessories should be complementary, and not take over the whole outfit. They should bring out your best features and pick out the highlights of the dress. A black dress with red details will look fabulous with red accessories and shoes. If you really want to stand out, go for contrasting colours, but take care not to produce an ugly combination. There are few women who can get away with red and green.
Upon Arrival
When you arrive at your party, looking glamorous and polished, remember to wear your outfit with pride. Stand tall and project confidence and this make you look fabulous, whatever the occasion.