Ball Gowns

The timeless classic of the ball gown appeals to almost every body shape depending on the cut of the bodice and skirt. High waist skirts such as an empire formal dress style is perfect for apple figures while pear shapes look great in a fitted bodice with a full skirt. Slender girls can wear any style of outfits because the fuller skirt will give the appearance of curves. If you are busty you can choose to flaunt it or distract from it by opting for a dress that either showcases a dramatic neckline or calls attention to the hemline of your dress instead. Gowns have enormous potential for disguising flaws and accentuating positive attributes for almost everyone. Since ball gowns are typically floor length, petite girls may look dwarfed in long formal dresses. These height challenged girls can elongate their appearance by wearing shorter dresses that showcase their legs, but if a petite girl has her heart set on a full gown, she still has options. A floor length skirt is still possible if the style of the dress is simple and understated. Layers of tulle sweeping the floor are not a good idea, but a mermaid dress with a bit of flare at the hemline is stunning. A daring low back can also give the illusion of length and a shirred bodice can call the attention back toward the waist and upward, distracting from her overall height.

Adornment usually accompanies full gowns in some fashion, whether it is in the jewels, the sequins and beads, or the bows and ruffles. Colors can be in solids ranging from light blue or pink to bold purple, key lime green or tropical orange. You can also consider multiple colors, such as black and green or white and red or multi colored prints. Accessories such as long sleeved gloves add an additional touch of elegance to the sleeveless gown and jewelry no longer has to be gold, silver, or sparkles. Consider stacking several turquoise bracelets to match your turquoise attire, or a matching necklace and pink earrings that match your pink gown.

An event requiring a formal gown is a milestone that will make you feel like the fairy tale princess whether you are wearing the glass slipper or merely attending the ball. Don’t choose the gown that makes Cinderella look good; choose the gown that makes you look good. Find a dress that fits your body shape, accessorize with the bare necessities, and know that no matter what, when you enter the ball room you will become the fairy tale princess.