Women's Gowns Buying Guide

Buying a gown can be a daunting task, especially for women who are not used to wearing dresses. Gowns come in different styles, sizes, and colors. They can be simple or ornate, elegant or casual, long or short, and made from various fabrics. To help you find the perfect gown for your body type, style, and occasion, this guide will provide you with some essential tips and considerations.

Body Type

The first thing to consider when buying a gown is your body type. Women's bodies come in different shapes and sizes, and not all gowns are designed to flatter every figure. Here are some tips on how to choose a gown that will complement your body:

• Pear-shaped: Women with wider hips and thighs than shoulders and bust should look for gowns that emphasize their upper body, such as A-line or ballgown styles, or those with a fitted bodice and full skirt. Avoid gowns with too much volume on the lower part, like mermaid or trumpet styles.
• Hourglass-shaped: Women with a balanced proportion between their bust and hips and a defined waist can wear almost any style of gown, but they should look for ones that accentuate their curves, like form-fitting or wrap dresses.
• Apple-shaped: Women with a fuller midsection and smaller hips and thighs should opt for gowns that create an illusion of a waistline, such as empire or A-line styles, or those with a corset or cinched waist. Avoid gowns that are too tight or clingy around the stomach area.
• Straight-shaped: Women with a rectangular or athletic build and a similar measurement around their shoulders, bust, waist, and hips should pick gowns that create the illusion of curves, such as mermaid or trumpet styles, or those with ruffles, detailing, or draping on the waist or hips.

Occasion

The second thing to consider when buying a gown is the occasion. Gowns can be worn for formal or informal events, such as weddings, proms, galas, balls, cocktail parties, dinners, or award shows. Each occasion has a specific dress code and style requirement that you should follow to avoid looking out of place. Here are some guidelines on how to choose a gown for different occasions:

• Weddings: If you're attending a wedding as a guest, avoid wearing white, ivory, or any color that might compete with the bride's dress. Pick a gown that is appropriate for the time of day and location of the wedding, such as a long maxi dress or formal gown for evening weddings, or a short dress or cocktail dress for daytime and outdoor weddings. If you're a bridesmaid, follow the bride's instructions on the color, style, and length of the gown.
• Proms: Proms are usually formal events that require students to wear a gown or a tuxedo. Choose a gown that reflects your personality and style, but also meets the dress code of your school and event. Consider the theme, color, and decorations of your prom and pick a gown that complements them. Avoid gowns that are too revealing, tight, or uncomfortable to dance or move in.
• Galas and balls: Galas and balls are upscale events that require guests to dress formally or black-tie. Pick a gown that is appropriate for the level of formality, such as a floor-length gown, ballgown, or evening gown. Consider the venue, theme, and host of the event and choose a gown that suits the style and atmosphere. Accessorize your gown with jewelry, heels, and a clutch to complete your look.
• Cocktail parties: Cocktail parties are semi-formal events that require guests to dress up but not too formal. Pick a gown that is cocktail-length or above the knee, and not too elaborate or shiny. Consider the time of day and location of the party and choose a gown that suits the setting, such as a little black dress or a sequin dress. Accessorize your gown with simple and elegant jewelry, heels, and a clutch.
• Dinners and award shows: Dinners and award shows are occasions that require guests to dress up professionally or glamorously. Pick a gown that reflects the occasion and the dress code, such as a long and flowing dress or a fitted and embellished dress. Consider the color, material, and style of your gown and choose one that flatters your body type and skin tone. Accessorize your gown with statement jewelry, heels, and a clutch.

Style and Color

The third thing to consider when buying a gown is the style and color. Gowns come in various styles and colors that suit different occasions, preferences, and skin tones. Here are some tips on how to choose a gown based on its style and color:

• Style: Gowns come in different styles, such as A-line, ballgown, mermaid, trumpet, sheath, empire, and halter. Each style has its own characteristics and features that suit different body types and occasions. For example, A-line and ballgown styles are flattering for pear-shaped and hourglass-shaped women, while mermaid and trumpet styles are best for those with a curvy figure. Choose a style that complements your body type and occasion.
• Color: Gowns come in various colors, such as black, white, red, blue, green, pink, gold, and silver. Each color has its own symbolism, mood, and effect on the wearer's skin tone and personality. For example, black is elegant and timeless, while white is pure and innocent. Red is passionate and confident, while blue is serene and calming. Green is refreshing and natural, while pink is feminine and romantic. Gold and silver are glamorous and eye-catching. Choose a color that suits your skin tone, occasion, and mood.

Fabric and Detailing

The fourth thing to consider when buying a gown is the fabric and detailing. Gowns can be made from various fabrics, such as chiffon, silk, satin, tulle, lace, and velvet. Each fabric has its own texture, drape, and quality that affects the comfort, appearance, and durability of the gown. Here are some tips on how to choose a gown based on its fabric and detailing:

• Fabric: Choose a fabric that suits the occasion and season. For example, chiffon and tulle are lightweight and breezy, suitable for summer and outdoor events. Silk and satin are smooth and luxurious, suitable for formal and indoor events. Lace and velvet are intricate and rich, suitable for vintage and winter events.
• Detailing: Choose a gown that has detailing that suits your style and occasion. For example, embellishments like beads, sequins, and embroidery can add sparkle and glamour to the gown. Ruffles, draping, and pleating can add volume and movement to the gown. Cutouts, straps, and backless designs can add a sexy and modern touch to the gown.

Online Shopping

The final thing to consider when buying a gown is where and how to shop. Nowadays, many women prefer to shop online for gowns due to the convenience, variety, and price. However, online shopping can be risky and tricky, especially when it comes to sizing, quality, and authenticity. Here are some tips on how to shop for gowns online:

• Sizing: Always check the size chart and measurements of the gown before buying it. Gowns can have different size standards depending on the brand, country, and material. Measure your bust, waist, hips, and height accurately and compare them to the size chart. If you're between sizes, consider getting a larger size and having it tailored to fit you perfectly.
• Quality: Read the description and reviews of the gown carefully to get an idea of its quality and durability. Gowns that are too cheap or too good to be true might have hidden defects or flaws. Look for gowns that have clear and detailed photos that show the fabric, detailing, and fit of the gown.
• Authenticity: Beware of counterfeit or imitation gowns that claim to be from famous or designer brands. Check the authenticity of the gown by looking for trademarks, logos, or tags that indicate the brand and its authenticity. Research the seller or website and read their return policy and customer service before buying the gown.

Conclusion

Buying a gown can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience if you know what to look for and how to shop for it. Consider your body type, occasion, style, color, fabric, and detailing when choosing a gown that flatters and suits you the best. Whether you're shopping in-store or online, follow these tips and guidelines to ensure that you get the perfect gown for your event and personality.