How To Choose A Dress That’s Right For You AND The Occasion

Choosing the perfect dress can sometimes feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! 

There’s nothing worse than standing in front of your closet before an event or dress shopping online and scrolling endlessly to find something that not only suits you but also the occasion. 

Finding a dress that flatters your body type while matching the formality or theme of an event can be tricky, but with the right guidance, you can make the perfect choice every time. 

But if you don’t understand what looks good for your body shape, what length is right for the occasion, what style and features you’re looking for, what colors, textures and patterns suit you or how to know whether a dress is actually a good fit, then this is the guide for you.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to assess your body type, select the right dress, and tailor your look to the specific event so that you feel confident and appropriately dressed every time. 

Let’s get started on finding the dress that’s perfect for both you and your next occasion!

Pro Tip: Pin your favorite looks to your Pinterest boards for style inspiration

Step 1: Consider the Occasion

The first thing you want to think about is where you’ll be wearing your dress. The vibe of a casual dress is entirely different from a dress for a formal event.

For casual wear, choose something that allows freedom of movement but still makes you feel put-together. Fabrics like cotton or jersey are your go-tos for a relaxed, breathable fit.

On the other hand, dresses for a formal occasion require elegance and refinement. Think structured silhouettes, luxurious fabrics like silk, satin, or chiffon, and unique or striking embellishments if it feels appropriate.

Remember, a dress code is more than just a suggestion; whether it’s “cocktail attire,” “black tie,” or “business casual,” sticking to the dress code shows respect for the host and helps you fit seamlessly into the event.

For example, a “black tie” event typically calls for a formal gown or a long dress, while a cocktail dress allows for shorter, more playful styles.

Choosing a Dress for a Wedding

When it comes to weddings, the stakes feel a bit higher. Whether you’re a guest, bridesmaid, or even the bride, the wedding gown you choose plays a huge role in how you feel on that special day.

If you’re wedding dress shopping, finding the perfect wedding dress requires careful thought. Brides should consider not only the style but also the theme and location of their wedding day and it may be a good idea to consider multiple dress outfits for different stages in the wedding to make sure that you’re comfortable throughout the day. 

For bridesmaids, the key is to find a bridesmaid dress that complements the bride’s vision while still being comfortable and flattering. 

The bridal shower can also be a useful opportunity to gauge the tone for the big day, as it’s often a sneak peek into the overall wedding style.

Step 2: Understand Your Body Type

Understand your body shape and how different styles can accentuate your best features in order to choose a dress that actually flatters your figure.

There are many different body types, and each one has its own unique beauty. Whether you have an hourglass figure, a pear shape, or are more rectangular, the goal is to balance proportions and highlight what makes you feel your best. 

Step 3: Choose the Right Dress Length

The length of your dress can dramatically affect how it looks and feels so that it not only flatters your figure but also suits the occasion.

Short dresses can show off your legs and create a fun, flirty silhouette. However, if you’re aiming for something more formal or want a polished look, short dresses are not always the best choice.

A flowy, full-length Maxi dress can also elongate your figure and add a touch of drama to your look.

However, if the event involves a lot of movement or walking outdoors it may become impractical so a midi dress could offer more comfort and ease.

Step 4: Choose the Right Dress Style

Once you’ve considered the occasion, your body type, and the length of the dress, it’s time to focus on selecting the right style. 

With so many different dress styles available, knowing which one suits your figure and the event can make all the difference.

• A line Dress: Ideal for most body types and a versatile choice.
• Shift Dress: Suits petite and rectangular body types; perfect for casual wear.
• Wrap Dress: Known for being universally flattering, great for defining the waist.
• Fit-and-Flare Dress: Excellent for creating curves and balance.
• Sheath Dress: A classic for more structured, professional events.
• Empire Dresses: An empire waist offers an elegant, regal look without being too form-fitting.

Step 5: Think about fabric and texture choices

Fabric and texture play a crucial role in how a dress looks, feels, and moves. The right fabric can elevate a simple dress, while the wrong one can make even the most flattering cut feel uncomfortable or inappropriate for the occasion.

Lightweight fabrics like cotton, linen, and chiffon are perfect for warmer weather or casual outings because they are breathable and comfortable. 

Heavier fabrics such as velvet, brocade, or wool are better suited for cooler weather or more formal events, offering structure and warmth.

Structured fabrics like taffeta or organza can hold their shape and create volume, perfect for A-line or ballgown styles.

Textured fabrics, such as lace or embroidery, can also add depth and visual interest to your dress. If you want to make a statement, these details can bring a simple design to life without needing bold colors or prints.

Step 6: Find your perfect color palette

When it comes to selecting the right color, think about what complements your skin tone, the season or the setting of the event. 

Skin undertones generally fall into three categories: warm, cool and neutral.

Warm undertones tend to look best in earthy and rich colors like camel, olive, cream, and warm taupe, rich reds, oranges, yellows or jewel tones to highlight the warmth in your skin tone.

Cool undertones are flattered by colors with blue or purple bases like grey, navy, white, soft pinks and blues and black provide a sleek to add an elegant backdrop for your skin tone.

Neutral undertones tend to look great in muted, understated shades like soft taupe, blush pink, and powder blue, as well as in stronger jewel tones. 

Step 7: Consider how the dress fits your personal style

Another crucial factor in choosing the right dress is how it aligns with your personal style. A dress might look great on the hanger, but if it doesn’t feel like you, it will never feel quite right no matter how many style tips you follow. 

Consider whether you’ll be able to adapt the dress to your own unique style whether it’s with your signature shoes, jewelry or other accessories that help you express your style. 

Maybe it’s a specific color that you always feel great wearing, a particular neckline that highlights your favorite features, or even allows you to accessorize with a piece of jewelry that’s meaningful to you.

The key is to find a balance between staying true to what makes you feel your best and what’s expected.

Step 8: Explore Dress Brands and Read Reviews

Before you make your final choice, it’s time to start exploring brands and reading reviews to ensure you’re making the best dress possible. 

With so many different types of clothes brands available, it’s important to do a bit of research before committing to your choice.

Take the time to browse different collections and see if their overall design aesthetic matches your preferences. Look for brands known for producing well-made clothes with accurate sizing and long-lasting fabrics.

Some dress brands may be more expensive, but the investment can be worth it if the dress is made from high-quality materials and offers a great fit.

Step 9: Try It On Before You Buy

Once you’ve found what looks like your dream dress, the last step is to try it on. When trying on a dress, pay attention to how it sits on your body, particularly around key areas like the waist, bust, and hips.

Your dream dress shouldn’t just look good—it should feel good too. Move around in it, walk, sit, and even do a little spin. You want to make sure that the dress not only fits and flows the way you want but also allows you to move comfortably throughout your day or event.

If you’re shopping online and can’t try on the dress beforehand, just make sure to check the store’s return policy in case it doesn’t fit as expected.