Choosing a graduation dress is something that you want to take a lot of time over. After all, this is a once in a lifetime occasion that you want to enjoy and remember, so looking and feeling great is important.
There are many factors to consider when making such an important decision, and we have put together a guide to help makes things simple. So, let’s begin by considering the occasion you are dressing for.
Is Your Graduation a Formal or Informal Occassion?
When choosing a graduation dress, it’s important to know what sort of occasion are you dressing for. Have you arranged a casual party afterwards or a formal dinner? Or are you going to go out on the town with friends?
The occasion itself will heavily influence the dress you wear, so that needs to be taken seriously.
Is There a Dress Code?
If there is a dress code, then many of your problems are solved. All you need to do is meet the code within your own style.
This point needs to be clarified before you go shopping and buy an inappropriate garment, so check it out before you spend.
How Long or Short Do You Want Your Dress?
An important choice that can be influenced by dress code and the level of formality of the occasion is this: do you want to wear a long dress or a short one?
Long, sleek, and stylish gowns are perfect for an occasion that is more toward the formal side. Short dresses can be seen as slightly less formal and are also more likely to be able to be worn again.
What’s Your Body Type?
Each of us is different in terms of shape and size, yet the fashion industry classes us into four general body types. These are hourglass, pear (or triangle), athletic, or round. Let’s have a look at what each means, and the type of dress that will flatter that body type.
An hourglass body is one that is well proportioned both in the bust and the hips, with each around the same size. Open and V-neck dresses suit this body type, as do dresses that are clinched at the waist.
For the girl with the pear body type, the hips are generally wider in proportion to the bust. The best graduation dresses for this type of shape are strapless designs with fitted tops, and A-line dresses flatter this shape, too.
The athletic body type has narrower hips than shoulders, and a dress that has embellishments or other added details will help it shine.
Of course, these are just guidelines, and the most important factor is wearing a dress that you like and that makes you feel amazing!
What Is Your Personal Style?
The one factor that is more important than anything else is that you feel comfortable and happy wearing the dress you choose. It’s not about pleasing others or conforming to the fashion rules above, but about making the occasion work for you.
Don’t be influenced by what others expect you to wear; instead, choose what you like and enjoy wearing. It’s your occasion, after all!
Decide Between Plain or Patterned
Both plain and patterned dresses are very much in right now, so whichever you choose is up to your own style. Think about which you prefer: Some girls like to go with jazzy patterns while others love elegant numbers in black, white, or another solid color.
If you’re torn on this, think about the kind of accessories and makeup you’re hoping to wear. In general, solid colors work better with bold makeup or elaborate jewelry, while loud patterns often call for understated pieces.
Follow Your Instincts
If you are down to a shortlist of, say, three dresses then it’s time to trust your instinct. You may have picked out three that are similar, or perhaps you’ve given yourself a choice of bold and brash or simple and demure.
When all else is equal, let your heart lead you and pick the dress that makes you feel excited, happy, and eager to wear it!
Final Words
The above is by no means a comprehensive guide to choosing a graduation dress but we hope we’ve given you some inspiration and ideas as to the best places to start searching. Enjoy your shopping and find yourself the perfect dress for what will be a very special occasion.
