Dressing for a formal event requires the appropriate etiquette for woman. Formal wear is required at weddings, garden parties and debutant balls, among other events. Formal wear for woman can include dress gowns, ballgowns and cocktail dresses. The two types of formal wear are black tie and white tie. There are a variety of sub-categories that are not as formal.
Black Tie
Wear a long, floor-length evening gown to a black tie event. Gowns generally reach the ankles and are paired with matching shoes. There is no restriction on color. Evening-style separates are also appropriate. During summer months, and depending on the formality of the occasion, shorter cocktail dresses may be acceptable. If wearing a shorter dress, the dress should not be more than 1 inch above the knee. Cocktail dresses should not be over the top or flamboyant. Make sure dresses are tailored to fit your body style. A V-neck cut works well for larger woman. Wear a dress that includes pleats and folds nears the stomach to disguise any stomach problems.
Gloves
Wearing gloves is optional. The shorter the sleeve on the dress, the longer the glove should be. Opera-style gloves measure approximately 23 inches in length. For dresses with cap sleeves a 19-inch glove is appropriate. Three-quarter length sleeves are commonly paired with 15-inch gloves. Long-sleeved evening wear is worn with wrist-length. The look is elegant and formal. When in a receiving line, remove your right glove to shake hands. Remove your gloves when eating or drinking. Make sure gloves are not loose and fit tight.
White Tie
Dressing in the most formal style is white tie. The style is not as common in the United States as it is in Europe and other countries. It is also referred to as ultra-formal. Women should wear floor-length gowns that are as dressy and elaborate as they dare. Gowns can be evening gowns or ballgowns. Ballgowns flare out more and have a full skirt---hoop skirts or petticoats are often worn underneath a ball gown. An evening gown will be slimmer and straight. Gowns can include a variety of materials including pearls, silk and lace. White tie clothing is paired with fine jewelry and evening bags. Evening bags are commonly made from the dress material.
Coordinate
Ask your partner or date what he will be wearing to the event. Attempt to coordinate and match colors and styles. A couple that is wearing two different looks will not complement each other. The man can wear a cummerbund that flatters the woman's dress for a black tie event. A cummerbund is never worn at a white tie event. For a white tie event, the man can wear a lapel flower similar to the lady's dress color.
Shoes and Accessories
Embellish formal wear with accessories. Earrings, necklaces and bracelets can complement a simple formal dress. Diamonds, pearls and precious stones are acceptable. Only wear costume jewelry if it looks real. Always try on shoes with the dress before the event. Make sure your shoes are comfortable enough to wear for an entire evening. Always wear appropriate undergarments that do not show through formal wear. A variety of brassieres and lingerie items are available in boutique and formal wear shops.Keep evening bags small in size and match them to your evening wear.
Tags: Make sure, paired with, black event, cocktail dresses, evening bags, evening gown
