By PAGE Editor

First impressions are everything, and your clothes have a lot to say about how people will judge you. Wearing appropriate attire shows respect to the host and the occasion and even adds to your confidence. This article covers everything from casual birthday parties to formal weddings and equips you with the knowledge of what to wear to any kind of party.

Top Tips for How to Dress for Different Occasions

Before going into specific events, here are a few general clues:

1. Know the dress code: Always check whether the invitation dictates a certain type of dress.

2. Consider the venue: A wedding on the beach requires different attire than one that might take place in a church.

3. Consider the season: Light, breathable fabrics for summer; layers for winter.

4. Wear for comfort: Besides looking awesome on a body, an attire should feel amazing, too.

5. Accessories can be really smart: One or two great accessories may make an ordinary outfit stand out.

6. Ask if you are not sure: It is always better to ask than to turn up inappropriately dressed for an occasion.

Birthday Party Dresses

Depending on the host and the venue, a birthday party can range from casual to semi-formal. One could manage with just a cute sundress or an elegant top and jeans in casual parties. In the evening parties, perhaps a cocktail dress or an appropriately trendy jumpsuit in style would do. One could also consider the style of the birthday people-if they are known to be fashion-forward, you probably would want to dress accordingly.

Dresses for Formal Wedding 

Formal weddings require formal, modesty-appropriately-attired guests, respectively, in honor of the event's importance. Moreover, while floor-length gowns traditionally have been common, they are not necessitated. In formal events, navy, burgundy, or emerald green takes on a refined, sophisticated approach. Most importantly, it is crucial to avoid white, cream, or ivory to avoid upstaging the bride. For men, formal wedding attire should also include tuxedos or dark-colored suits with ties.

Dresses for Informal Wedding

Informal weddings involve more easy-going attire than formal weddings, but that doesn't mean anything really goes. Most often, cocktail or summer dresses are worn by a woman, while a man can choose an outfit composed of dress shirts, slacks, or khakis. Vibrant colors or prints are not taboo at most informal weddings and can add to the merriment of the occasion. Yet, there is one color- white-that should be avoided, like any other wedding, unless the bride and groom request it.

Bridesmaid Dresses

As a bridesmaid, a bride will usually pick out your dress. You can plan on wearing whatever style and color the bride chooses because many brides like all of their bridesmaids to match. If the bride does ask your opinion it is a good idea to bring up styles that are flattering on a number of body types so that you and the other bridesmaids feel comfortable. Also bring up possible alterations and budget concerns when discussing options.

Mother of the Bride Dresses

The mother of the bride must be noticeable without alluring the attention of the bride. Find a dress that would complement the color of the wedding and wear only prestigious fabrics such as chiffon, lace, or silk. A dress with a matching jacket will be versatile for different parts of the event. It's also a good idea to check in with the mother of the groom just so you aren't too similarly dressed; help each other out with where your individuality meets cohesion in appearance.

Engagement Party Guest Dresses

Engagement parties are most often semi-formal events, which is middle-of-the-road between completely casual and full-on formal wear. A cocktail dress or a nice skirt with a blouse is usually appropriate. Consider the venue for your attire choice – an engagement party at a restaurant will call for different, possibly more formal, attire than would one in a backyard. Vibrant, joyous colors should be sported for this joyful event – colors that scream life and celebrate this happy occasion.

Prom Dresses

Prom is that time when you need to shine and showcase your personal style. Long gowns may be more traditional, but they are absolutely not required. Pay attention to your body type when choosing a silhouette to make sure that you are comfortable and confident. Bright colors or unusual designs shouldn't scare you; prom is the time when you can finally make your say. Comfort, however, if you will be dancing all night. Accessories can make or break your look, so you must choose items that will go great with your dress but not overpower it.

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