Monday, November 30, 2009

Party Frocks For Every Body



Dahlings! So how many parties are you attending this holiday season? Too many invitations making the choice difficult? Okay,well maybe your mail/email box is not over flowing with RSVP requests yet. But I'm sure you'll get one last minute party invitation and when that happens thanks to this post, you'll have the perfect party dress. Or maybe you're throwing your own bash...even more fabulous.

This holiday season there's a special focus on bright shades, sexy one-shoulders, gorgeous draping, vibrant colors, and of course sequins, metallics and luxe take center stage.

Depending on your body type, finding the right party frock can be a challenge. For each body shape that exists or that I could think of, I've selected a go to dress to help you begin your shopping or to inspire you. Read on Dahlings!


Curvalicious
I fall into this category and when I shop for party dresses I look for a silhouette that provides definition around the waist and a fantastic neckline to draw the eye up. If you carry most of your weight in the lower half of your body, you should look for a dress that flares at the hem. For the more hippy girls try a shape like this with a skirt that doesn’t cling anywhere. Here's what I recommed for the  hourglass body shape.

Petite Mamas
If you're on the short side ( that is me also) you want to strive for a look that elongates your silhouette. The best way to do this is by embracing shorter dresses and pairing them with sheerer hose or opaque tights (making sure that the shoes match.) It's also a good idea to flash a little skin with a low neckline or strapless dress or the one shoulder option to draw the eye upward. Go glam with metallic minis in high-shine finishes or sequins. These suggestions also work for gals with boyish bods; meaning you want more more curves and more body.

Busty Babes
Shopping for party dresses can be a challenge for girls with a lot to work with on top. Your best bet is to look for a tailored dress that provides a clear silhouette. That means no shapeless dresses or tunics. You need a dress with strong lines and seams with a snug silhouette that cinches at the waist. It's also best to stay with one color from head to toe for a longer leaner look. And you must, absolutely look for a dress with major support on top.

Full-Figured Beauties
Finding the right look for full figured gals can be challenging due to the limited fashionable options offered in the stores. The best options for a party frock is a simple silhoutte coupled with major accessories to create drama.Skip any additions that will add bulk like, ruffles etc. Focus on finding a dress with a fantastic neckline, that skims the body ( not skin tight) in a deep color. And it's okay to show some skin on top to draw the eye to the face.



Long Lean and Leggy
You're the type of gal that can get away with a lot and I'm certain you are not well liked because of this. You, dahling, can experiment with sequins or a bold print but make sure it's in a sleek fabric to avoid looking like a circus tent. Don't forget to show off your long legs but do be careful about going too short. But the world is yours when it comes to finding the perfect party dress.

And Remember:  Accessorize, Accessorize!
The Holidays is the perfect time to bring the drama when it comes to accessorizes. Strapless dresses usually warrant a pair of earrings. But if your dress is major on the details and color, please keep the jewelry to a minimum. And it's rarely ever okay to wear matching earrings, necklace and a bracelet. If you do dramatic earrings, skip the necklace. If you must wear another piece of jewelry, go for a cocktail ring or bracelet. And don't forget your clutch, a must have to complete your look.

Where to shop: When shopping for dresses you can always hit up the major department stores for the large selections avialable. But I tend to like shopping at boutique stores where the service can be a little more personal and you'll find more selective, unique choices. Places like Ambiance, McMullen's in Oakland are great options.But there are tons of great boutiques both in San Francisco and the East Bay. Just be sure to give yourself at least 2-3 weeks to find the perfect look. Never shop the day of an event, I've been there and sometimes I'm lucky and find the perfect look but the anixiety is just not worth it!

And because I know not all of us like the idea of squeezing into a dress, here's a great video from the Gals at Lucky featuring alternatives to a party dress if that's not your thing or if you want to swtich it up.
Check it.



The Final Word: Dahlings,when shopping for a party frock, just make sure the dress has a great neckline; a V-neck flatters everyone. And if you're not shaped like a model, tall and leggy, stick to silhouettes that emphasize your waist and that skim the body. You never want to look like you are wearing a tent; very few people can carry that look. But most importantly, no matter what you choose to rock for that special soiree, rock it with confidence. That looks good on everybody.

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