You have that “semi-formal” holiday party invitation in your hand, on your fridge, or waiting on the coffee table. The idea of “semi-formal” makes you a feel a bit timid, without the slightest idea of knowing what the heck you”re supposed to wear. What does it really mean anyway? Half denim-half ball gown? Or semi-lavish… semi-casual… ? Not to worry… “semi-formal” to me means…. exquisite and effortless dressing. Check out which formal women’s dress is most suitable for you during these times of despair, without thinking about your old bridesmaid dress as an option.
There are a variety of formal women’s dress available in different colors and cuts. Finding a festive look that flatters your body type is the challenge. See below for some tips I got from Katherine Weissman, a writer for oprah.com. She clearly explains which party dress looks good on all kinds of women.
Curvy Figure: If you have a curvy figure try dresses with a flared hem in order to lengthen the lower part of the body. The flare of the hem will offset the hips of your figure. If the bottom of the dress is a straight cut, your hips might look wider. Choose a formal women’s dress with structure, and do not go for something that is loose or boxy; the construction and seams of the dress should define each and every curve. Do not be afraid to show your shoulders, the most sensual part of a woman’s body. And consider picking dresses with a decorative neckline or embellishing, the diversion of the top will keep the gaze upward.
Busty Figure: For the well-endowed women, it is ideal to stick to one shade or color. For 2009, I suggest using jeweled or deep color tones for the season (i.e. emerald green, eggplant purple, burgundy, deep blue). The one shade of color will help slim and elongate the figure. It is important that you choose a dress with wider straps, which will give you more support and allow you to wear a more functional bra. Choose strong vertical lines/seams, pleats, or add long necklace pieces; this will help stretch out your body more without looking top heavy.
Athletic Figure: For the ladies with the sporty figure, choose a dress with deep necklines (creates a busty look). Or use belt to cinch along the waist giving you more hip action. Be daring, and go for dresses with dimension, fabrics with texture, or extreme lines (i.e. exaggerated collars, flared skirts, etc.) will create more curves. High glam fabrics like sequins and beading are appealing on athletic body types. You won’t look overdressed.
Pregnant Figure: The mother-to-be figures should choose Grecian draping styles that define her lovely shape. Do not go for loose fitting clothes that will make you look even bigger. Make sure areas under the bust or stomach are fitted; which will help define your natural shape. Think dark colors which will make you look more slim. Or go to daddy-to-be and rummage through his clothes for something comfortable (i.e. try men’s shirt over metallic leggings and layer with tuxedo blazer/jacket).
Petite Figure: For shorter women, choose a dress that has a short hem which is above the knee. This will give the illusion of length on a shorter figure. Do not be afraid to bare some skin or show some legs to help create a look to lengthen your limbs. Be funky and choose decorative trims and ruffles that will make you stand out in a crowd of long legs.
Tall Figure: Long legged women should be more fussy about the fit: choosing a sleek look will accentuate all the right curves. Choosing a print can also be helpful and make you more curvy. Do not go for too short of a hem! It will look like you’re wearing an ultra mini skirt, and to put it bluntly, you’ll look like a street walker. Go for kitten heels or pointed flats for a dressy look. Choose horizontal details like square necklines, cross stripes, or ankle straps…you can get away with it!
So there you have it… choosing a formal women’s dress or holiday dress is based on personal taste. But making sure you are picking one that suits your body type can be difficult. Embrace your figure during the holidays. Eat, drink and be merry…and don’t feel guilty about it!
Image Source: rlv.zcache.com, polyvove.com, iheartluxe.com
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