How To Dress up for A Formal Occasion (Ladies)

Girls it’s not hard to look fabulous. No need to break your bank account to look beautiful for a formal event, this guide will help you look beautiful with just have the basics in your wardrobe.

Get that perfect dress: you can never go wrong with a perfect, comfortable dress. Instead of always going to these expensive stores also consider cheap stores, you will be surprised at what you can find in there.

Get the jewellery: Don’t go overboard! Avoid matching all your jewellery. Mix it up a bit. If you must match it, then try to make sure that at least one piece isn’t from the “set.”

Do your nails: Get a manicure/pedicure or glue on nails. Keep in mind that if they are too long or too squared off then it will not be glamorous- it will be tacky.

Do your hair: Style your hair to compliment your dress. Experiment the week before the formal to see what looks best with your dress, frame, etc. Hair accessories (feathers, jewelled combs, etc.) can also add interest. Keep in mind that whatever style you choose, clean hair is a must.

Get the right make-up: Focus on your eyes or lips but never both. You might want to take an hour or two to fiddle around with your makeup well before the Big Night. Start with a sheer foundation and use it sparingly. (Be aware that some foundations and powders can actually make your skin reflect several shades lighter in photographs. Also, if you’re fake-tanning, make sure that your foundation matches your finished colour, otherwise it’ll end up looking cheap and fake.) Decide on where you want the focus to be. Bold lips are not for the faint-hearted, so if you’re unsure, err on the side of caution and focus on your eyes.

Finally good Shoes: For most girls, you want .5-1 heels. Remember, you may be dancing all night so pick up shoes you’re comfortable in. Either buy cheap shoes you will not wear again but match the outfit, or buy expensive shoes that you will wear with every outfit. Shop around and look for comfort and style.

Tips

• Buy shoes that are comfortable.
• Don’t buy a dress you will never wear again.
• The best time to bargain shop for semi-formal and formal dresses is in early March for semi-formals and in late May and early summer for Semi-formals and formals. The dresses that didn’t sell from the Matric dances are on sale/clearance at these times.
• Your eyeshadow doesn’t have to match your dress. Making it a separate or more vibrant colour will highlight your gorgeous eyes.
• If the formal occasion is a wedding, take a sundress or more comfortable clothes for the reception. Wearing white is usually frowned upon at weddings, so as to not upstage the bride.