5 Formal Wear Looks

I’m so excited for today’s blog post! I spent last night surfing the web for the prettiest (and most reasonably priced) formal dresses for your next big occasion…as well as shoes, accessories, and clutches to come in clutch (as the kids say). I really love how all these looks turned out, and even though I may not have a formal event coming up any time soon—sad day—I do know lots of you have prom to look forward to! I don’t miss high school, but I would be lying if I said I didn’t miss homecoming and prom. So whether you have an auction, dance, sorority formal, or other event that requires dressing up, I’ve got you covered! Literally, because going naked might be too much of a statement.

20s Glam

This first look is for all y’all ladies that love to go ALL out for your formal events! The stunning gown is totally black-tie appropriate and screams 20s flapper girl vibes. Since it’s such a shimmery statement, I kept the accessories rather simple with a matching gold clutch, gold sparkly shoes, and a sparkly bracelet to keep your arm company. As you can tell from my own prom photos, I’m a full supporter of wearing black! It’s timeless and classy.

Black Glittery Dress: Nordstrom Rack, $80 // Sparkly Bracelet: Francesca’s, $22 // Gold Glitter Shoes: DSW, $30 // Gold Clutch: DSW, $30

Outfit Total: $162

Spring Tea Party

This outfit is for the girls who dare to be different. The dress is an untraditional length for prom, but I absolutely adore the vintage style and pretty lace details. Because this frock hits at a t-length, it’s important to wear shoes that don’t cut off the line of your leg. That’s why I picked these neutral heels with a thin ankle strap—they will ensure legs for days instead of an unfortunate Oompa Loompa situation. They also come in tons of colors!

Blue Lace Dress: Lulus, $64 // Beige Heels: DSW, $50 // Blush Flower Purse: DSW, $35 // Flower Earrings: Francesca’s, $16

Outfit Total: $165

Simple Goddess

This simplistic but gorgeous look is for all the girls who don’t like to be too flashy. The stunning dusty blue dress is the prettiest spring color, and the tied straps give all the boho vibes (wait ‘til you see the back). I kept the shoes and purse in the perfect neutral shade, with matching metallic piping, and both pieces can be dressed down for everyday wear after the night of your big event. The deep, wrap-style neckline of the gown will elegantly frame the layered necklace I chose. And if blue isn’t your favorite, this dress comes in lots of additional colors!

Dusty Blue Dress: Lulus, $84 // Layered Necklace: Francesca’s, $22 // Neutral Heels: DSW, $30 // Beige Cutout Purse: DSW, $30

Outfit Total: $166

Edgy Babe

This look is HOT. The black and rose gold silky dress is a unique pattern and color combo, and when paired with a choker and stud heels, it creates a sexy and unexpected formal outfit. This look will surely inspire a few head-turns, and because of the unique pattern and print, I bet you won’t have to worry about unintentionally twinning with your nemesis!

Silky Gown: Lulus, $76 // Black Studded Heels: DSW, $40 // Black and Gold Choker: Francesca’s, $22 // Black Purse: DSW, $25

Outfit Total: $163

Lovely in Lilac

Okay, so I love all of these looks…but I think this one might be my favorite! I’m probably biased towards this lavender outfit because it reminds me of the mauve dress I wore to one of my own proms. The mix of purple shades is gorgeous, and the details of the bag are oh-so-stunning. I can also vouch for these eggplant shoes because I wore the same pair in silver to both of my proms (as well as a few homecomings and countless other occasions). The dress and shoes both come in other shades as well, if you want a less spring-y color palette.

Lavender Dress: Lulus, $97 // Purple Heels: DSW, $30 // Flower Clutch: DSW, $50 // Sparkly Belt: Charming Charlie, $28

Outfit Total: $205

Do you have prom or any formal events coming up? Would you wear any of these looks, and which one is your favorite?! For more prom inspo and formal looks, check out my own outfits at the links below. You may even be inspired to rock a short dress instead of gown!

My First Tailoring Experience

Mauve

Fringe

Why You Should Wear a Short Dress to Prom

You can also check out my similar formal wear post from last year, called Prom Ready. A lot of the dresses are actually still available, and they remain some of my favorite gowns.

Happy shopping and have a fabulous Monday! If only our outfits today could be as glamorous as these looks…

 

Miles of smiles,
Grace