By Gigi Starr
Things You'll Need:
- Foundation garments, such as support hose or a strapless bra
- High-contrast accessories
- Evening clutch
- Dress cardigan or bolero jacket
Step 1
Dress your body to impress by being honest about what suits your
body. Some shapes aren't shown to their best advantage
in certain outfits, so don't try to force something that
doesn't truly flow. Mitchell's first tip: "Fit!
Dressing for your body type is first and foremost when you're
shopping for any occasion but it's especially important when
you're dressing to impress."
Step 2
Don't overdo it by wearing a plethora of glamorous
accents. Rhinestones, pearls, ribbons, lacing, fur,
feathers - pick one, leave the rest. Just because it's designer
doesn't make it perfect or sophisticated. Says Mitchell,
"If you're going to choose a trend, pick one. A bejeweled
neckline is great but if you're a style novice don't do a
bubble hem, too. Remember, fashion is meant to make you look good.
If you don't, the designer won't either."
Step 3
Select appropriate foundation garments for the gown. Many
outfits fall apart from the lack of a good strapless bra or the
absence of support pantyhose. True, support foundations are often
not so sexy, but sacrifice a bit to achieve the total picture.
Step 4
Use colorful, high-contrast pieces to zest up a neutral or black
dress. Done the right way, Mitchell says, people won't
even recognize your clothing if it makes a repeat performance.
Think in terms of bright necklaces, shoes or purses, to start.
Step 5
Think hard before adding hats and gloves to an outfit. Our
designer's advice? "There's a time and place for
gloves and hats but unless you're headed to church or the Derby
these fashion choices are best left in your grandmother's
closet." If you'd still like something a little fancy and
retro, try a fascinator hair clip instead.
Step 6
Keep the load light by using a small evening clutch bag.
Leave the day bag at home, even if it's an Hermes Birkin.
"Don't carry your everyday purse to the party, take out
your lipstick, keys, ID and a credit card and put them in a
perfectly sized clutch," Mitchell advises.
Tips & Warnings
Wear a bolero or fancy cardigan instead of a wrap. Though
they may look pretty on the hanger, a wrap can turn awkward if not
worn properly. Also, Mitchell points out that wraps can look a bit
matronly for younger women.
Check out runway snapshots from favorite designers for
ideas. On Mitchell's list: Vera Wang (a huge
favorite), Christian Dior, Valentino, Nicole Miller and BCBG Max
Azria.
How to Choose a Special Occasion Dress - Tips from
Project Runway originally published on
eHow.com
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