A Beginner's Guide to Formal Dress Shopping
Shopping for your first formal dress can feel overwhelming. With countless styles, fabrics, and price points to consider, where do you even begin? Whether you're preparing for a school formal, a wedding, a corporate gala, or any other elegant occasion, this guide will walk you through every step of the process—from initial planning to making your final decision with confidence.
Give yourself plenty of time! Ideally, start shopping at least 6-8 weeks before your event to allow for delivery, alterations, and accessory planning.
Step 1: Define Your Event and Dress Code
The first step in finding your perfect dress is understanding exactly what you're dressing for. Different events call for different levels of formality, and getting this right ensures you'll feel comfortable and appropriately dressed.
Consider the following questions:
- What is the specific dress code listed on the invitation?
- Is the event during the day or evening?
- Will it be indoors, outdoors, or both?
- What is the venue like—formal ballroom, garden setting, beachside?
- What time of year is the event, and what weather should you expect?
A black-tie gala calls for a floor-length evening gown, while a cocktail party might suit a chic midi dress. A summer garden wedding has different requirements than a winter corporate event. Understanding your event's context is the foundation of smart shopping.
Step 2: Set a Realistic Budget
Formal dresses range from under $50 to several thousand dollars. Setting a clear budget before you start shopping helps you focus your search and avoid the disappointment of falling in love with something out of reach.
What Does Your Budget Need to Cover?
Remember that the dress itself is only part of the total cost. Your budget should account for:
- The dress: The centerpiece of your look
- Alterations: Typically $50-$200 depending on complexity
- Undergarments: The right bra or shapewear can make or break a look
- Shoes: Heels or elegant flats to complement your dress
- Accessories: Jewellery, bag, wrap or shawl if needed
A helpful approach is to allocate about 60-70% of your total budget to the dress itself, leaving the remainder for these essential extras.
Online retailers often offer beautiful formal dresses at lower price points than boutiques. Just be sure to check sizing charts carefully and order early enough to allow for returns if needed.
Step 3: Know Your Measurements
Accurate measurements are crucial, especially when shopping online. Taking proper measurements ensures you order the right size the first time, avoiding the hassle of returns and exchanges.
Essential Measurements to Take
- Bust: Measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape parallel to the floor
- Waist: Measure at your natural waistline, usually the narrowest part of your torso
- Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips, typically about 20cm below your waist
- Hollow to hem: From the hollow of your throat to where you want the hem to fall (wearing the heel height you plan to wear)
Always refer to the specific sizing chart for each retailer, as sizing can vary significantly between brands. If you fall between sizes, ordering the larger size and having it tailored is usually the safer choice.
Step 4: Explore Your Style Options
Now comes the fun part—exploring different styles! Before diving into shopping, spend some time gathering inspiration. Create a mood board or save images of looks that catch your eye. Pay attention to what elements you're consistently drawn to.
Key Style Elements to Consider
Silhouette: A-line, mermaid, ball gown, sheath, or empire waist? Each creates a different look and suits different body types.
Neckline: V-neck, sweetheart, off-shoulder, halter, or high neck? Consider what flatters your face shape and bust.
Length: Floor-length, midi, or knee-length? This often depends on the formality of your event.
Sleeves: Sleeveless, cap sleeves, long sleeves, or dramatic statement sleeves?
Details: Sequins, lace, beading, ruching, or clean and minimalist?
Find Your Balance
If your dress has a dramatic element (like a bold print or heavy embellishment), keep other elements simple. If your dress is understated, you have more freedom with accessories.
Step 5: Try Before You Decide
Whether you're shopping in-store or online, actually trying on dresses is essential. What looks stunning on a model or mannequin may look different on your body, and that's completely normal.
In-Store Shopping Tips
- Book appointments at bridal or formal wear boutiques for personalised attention
- Wear nude undergarments similar to what you'd wear with your dress
- Bring shoes with a similar heel height to what you plan to wear
- Take photos of yourself in each dress for later comparison
- Sit, walk, and move around in the dress to test comfort
- Bring a trusted friend for honest opinions, but don't bring too many people
Online Shopping Tips
- Read reviews, especially those with photos from real customers
- Check the return policy before ordering
- Order early to allow time for returns if needed
- When the dress arrives, try it on immediately so you have time to return if necessary
- Take photos to assess the look objectively
Step 6: Consider Alterations
Very few off-the-rack dresses fit perfectly without some adjustments. Professional alterations can transform a good dress into a perfect one. Common alterations include hemming, taking in or letting out seams, adjusting straps, and adding bra cups or boning for support.
Book your alterations appointment 3-4 weeks before your event. Most alterations take 1-2 weeks, but complex changes may require more time.
Step 7: Plan Your Complete Look
Once you've chosen your dress, it's time to plan the accessories that will complete your look. Your accessories should complement your dress, not compete with it.
Consider these finishing touches:
- Shoes: Match the formality of your dress and ensure they're comfortable enough for the event's duration
- Jewellery: Choose pieces that complement your neckline and overall style
- Bag: A clutch or small evening bag for essentials
- Wrap or shawl: Especially important for evening events or air-conditioned venues
- Hair and makeup: Book appointments or plan your DIY look in advance
Step 8: The Final Decision
When making your final choice, trust your instincts. The right dress will make you feel confident, beautiful, and excited to wear it. Don't settle for a dress that's merely "fine"—hold out for one that makes you light up.
Ask yourself these final questions:
- Do I feel confident and comfortable in this dress?
- Is this appropriate for my event's dress code and venue?
- Can I move, sit, and dance in it comfortably?
- Is it within my budget, including alterations and accessories?
- Am I excited to wear this dress?
If you can answer yes to all of these questions, you've found your dress. Congratulations! With proper care and the right accessories, you're set to make a stunning impression at your formal event.
Remember, shopping for a formal dress should be an enjoyable experience. Take your time, trust the process, and embrace the excitement of finding something that makes you feel absolutely beautiful.