How to Choose the Perfect Christmas Party Dress

Autumn has arrived, which can only mean that the festive party season is just around the corner. If you want to be prepared for what’s in store, then you might start thinking about what you’re going to wear.

But how, exactly, do you pick out a good dress for a Christmas bash? Let’s take a look.

Consider the Dress Code

When you receive the invitation, you might encounter one or two obscure terms. Can you tell the difference between casual, smart-casual, semi-formal, and formal?

In most cases, it’s worth simply considering the environment. What’s appropriate for an office party at a posh hotel might not be appropriate for an trip to the pub. Generally speaking, you can take ‘formal’ to connote a full-length gown; ‘semi-formal’ to connote a cocktail dress; and ‘casual’ to connote just about anything you’d feel comfortable wearing to the aforementioned pub.

Choose the Right Fabric

At this time of year, you can get away with certain plush, warm fabrics like velvet and satin. Make sure that you’re happy with the fit of the dress, since some winter fabrics lack the flexibility of their more summery counterparts. You’ll also need to feel comfortable in your chosen attire, especially if you intend to wear it long into the night.

Flattering Silhouettes

Your choice of dress should be informed by the shape (or ‘type’) of your body. An A-line dress can help to lend balance to a pear-shaped figure, while a fitted one might lend definition to an hourglass figure. If your body is rectangular, then it might be a good idea to favour a maxi dress with additional ruching, or a belt, around the waist.

Colour and Patterns

A festive occasion often demands festive colours. Reds, greens, and golds might all work alongside one another. The patterns you choose can all work along with the festive theme, too. Women’s black dresses are a great option if you want a safe choice.

Accessorising Your Dress

By pairing your dress with the right accessories, you can work even more festive cheer into your outfit as a whole. Or, you can help it to better reflect your tastes and personality. Experiment with the options available to you. Outerwear will almost always be a concern during winter, too. Look for coats and wraps that work with the rest of your ensemble – or, again, if you’re in doubt, play it safe with blacks, greys, or creams.

Budget Considerations

Since Christmas party season only lasts for a few weeks, it’s easy to go overboard with your spending. Look for budget-friendly dresses that can be worn over and over, throughout winter. Or, go all-in on a high-quality item that you can see yourself wearing again and again. In the long term, this might provide greater value for your money.