How to choose the perfect dress?

How to choose the perfect dress?

There are literally thousands of dress styles with each being a particular combination of characteristics. A few of these are Sheath, Shift, Chemise, Sundress, Baby Doll, Tent, Shirtmaker, Coat, Caftan, Empire, Smock, Sweater, Wrap, Ball, Sailor, ...
The fabric of a dress is almost as important as its silhouette and fit. One style of dress can look very different when made out of different fabrics. The fabric will create an image and mood that will affect both the wearer and those she meets. The most common dress fabrics include: cotton, jersey, rayon, silk, wool, polyester, crepe, denim, velvet and linen.
Matt, rough fabrics make the wearer appear sporty and outdoorsy (e.g.Linen). Soft, smooth fabrics make the wearer more feminine. Fabrics that drape fluidly over the body are generally more flattering than those that cling or sit away from the body. Body-hugging fabrics are seen as sexy when worn by a woman with a well toned body.
The more fabric in a dress or the bulkier it is, the greater the risk that the wearer will be overwhelmed by it. Scale is just as relevant when it comes to fabric as it with embellishments and pattern.
Embellishments are anything added to a dress to give interest, add appeal or alter its image. They include lace, ruffles, bows, ribbon and sequins. Embellishments are often focal points which attract attention to where they have been placed; because of this their placement should be evaluated. Great embellishments enhance the wearer, their body shape and the garment.
The neckline is a critical area of a dress: it’s shape is always noticed and it frames the face. There are literally hundreds of possible necklines and collars suitable for a dress. The most universally flattering neckline is the “V”. The most difficult to wear neckline is a high round neck. The best depth of neckline for an individual is a depth equal to the length of their face. Wearing the correct bra for a given neckline is essential for a good appearance.
Sleeves are also a critical area, especially if the client’s arms are one of her best attributes. Like necklines, however, there are hundreds to choose from. Full busted women (cups D and larger) require a wider bra strap than a shoe string strap will hide and large bust is not balanced by a shoe string strapped dress – the weight of the bust appears too heavy for a tiny spaghetti or shoe string strap to hold. Medium to wide strapped dresses are best on women over 50. Halter necklines are not flattering on small breasted women (A cup) nor those with cups greater than DD.
A women’s best length depends on her height and the shape and length of her legs. Long dresses look best on tall, longlegged women and vice versa. Those not blessed with long legs will find high heels the magic ingredient that pulls of the look. Dresses that skim the top of the knee are always current and flattering on most every woman.
Anything worn will look the best when it fits the body perfectly. Correct fit, teamed with a style and colour that suits the wearer can result in a wonderful dress, even if it was inexpensive.