How to Pick the Perfect Formal Dress for Any Event? 13 Tips

Heading to a dreamy wedding? Hosting a fun cocktail party? Or in the mood for a special night out?

Every girl wants a perfect formal dress that feels straight out of her Pinterest mood board.

But how to find it? Endless options are there, and scrolling through them seems like being stuck in a fashion limbo.

You want to feel beautiful, confident, and comfy, all at the same time. Because what’s the point of looking like a goddess? If you’re tugging at your dress all night or can’t breathe in it.

At Les Trois, we believe that style should never come at the cost of comfort. Whether you’re into timeless classics or trendy cuts. We’ve got dreamy party dresses and holiday clothing that can make you look effortlessly chic without the drama.

So, let’s create the perfect outfit for your next event together.
Your choices & our guidance.

How Formal Dress Differs from Holiday Clothing? Can we Blend the Two?

Before we jump into choosing your dress. Let’s guide you on some styling notions about your dress choices.

Formal dresses are worn for special occasions in more reserved settings. Like weddings, evening parties, or corporate events. These dresses tend to be more conventional with their elegant cuts, rich fabrics, and a more sophisticated look.

Think floor-length gowns, cocktail dresses, or figure-flattering midi dresses.

On the other hand, holiday clothing is all about happy vibes and playful styles. For example, your next summer getaway or a Christmas gathering. Holiday outfits are more laid-back with a hint of carefree style.

Imagine maxi dresses, light fabrics, and fun prints going with the wind flow.

Now, these notions are set for a reason, sure. But now it’s time to think outside the box. Formal dresses should be comfortable too. Cause you can’t spend a whole evening in stinging laces. Similarly, holiday dressing also deserves to be stylish.

So, let’s put all our creative shoes on & help you create the best of both worlds.

Choosing the Perfect Formal Dress | Tips to Find Your Dream Outfit

With a little planning, thoughtful styling and expert guidance. You can create an outfit that suits formal settings & feels like heaven to your skin.

Here’s how:

1. Consider the Type & Time of Event

The first step is understanding the occasion. Is the event formal, semi-formal, or informal? Which time will it take place? (As lighting guides your colour selection).

• Daytime Events: Go for lighter shades and softer colours. Midi or knee-length dresses work for garden parties or brunches.
• Evening Events: Get some glamorous styles, silky fabrics, darker shades, and a bit of sparkle.
• Holiday parties: If you’re choosing holiday clothing, add a cool touch with breathable fabrics like cotton or chiffon.

2. Ask About the Dress Code

Before shopping, always check if there’s a dress code and theme of the event. Nobody wants to look misfit or oddball in a setting.

Common dress codes include:

But don’t just stick with dress code, art is in adding your touch to it.

3. Know Your Colours

The dress colour sets the impression of your personality. Go for tones that complement your skin shade and make your features prominent.

If you’re unsure, here’s a little cheat sheet:

• Fair Skin: Soft pastels, navy blue, and emerald green.
• Olive Skin: Warm tones like red, mustard, or earthy shades.
• Dark Skin: Bold colours like royal blue, fuchsia, and metallic tones.

Once you know your palette, you can play maximum with styles and textures.

4. Explore New Styles

If you always reach for the same type of dress, it feels boring & monotonous. So, step out of your comfort zone and go wild with your choices.

Some trending styles of formal dress in 2025 include:

• Slip Dresses: Smooth, minimal, and perfect for cocktail nights.
• Wrap Dresses: Super flattering to every body type.
• Cut-Out Details: A little playful without being too revealing.
• Puff Sleeves: Romantic, feminine, and exhibiting a 90s look.

Pro Tip: No matter how trendy, an outfit is useless if they aren’t fitting you right.

5. Keep Your Body Proportions in Mind

Understanding your body shape can make any outfit your perfect formal dress. Because if it’s suiting you right, what else is there to worry?

So, stand in front of the mirror and know yourself in order to identify your style.

6. Research and Gather Inspiration

Now it’s time to get some inspo to set your style goals.

Thanks to social media & fashion websites, there’s no shortage out there. Platforms like Pinterest and Instagram let you pin your favourite looks. Search for terms like “Women’s Party Dresses Australia” or #FormalOutfits to see what’s trending.

This step helps you figure out what you naturally gravitate towards. And makes a clear picture of what you want yourself to look like.

7. Make a Budget and Stick to It

We get it. Shopping for a special occasion tempts you to splurge on the glamour.

But setting a budget before you start browsing will limit this habit. Make a well-thought-out budget and stick to it religiously. It not only narrows down your options but also makes shopping faster and less stressful.

If you’re looking for a one-time outfit for a wedding or party. Consider renting or getting an affordable piece. However, if you want something that you’ll wear again. It’s worth investing in high-quality cocktail dresses Australia.

8. Pay Attention to Details

It’s the smallest details that separate the perfect formal dress from an ordinary one.

Take a closer look at the little features that set each piece apart. Check embellishments like lace trims, ruffles, or delicate embroidery. They should add an elegance factor to party dresses for women without making them too heavy.

If you love a more minimalist look and find beauty in simplicity. Go for dresses with subtle details. like a low back, gathered sleeves, or a thigh-high slit.

9. Test Your Outfit

Never buy a dress without trying it on your body, trust us, you’ll thank yourself later!

Try on different party dresses and see which one is creating the look you imagined. Move around in your dress. Walk, sit down, and even dance to check how comfortable it is. If the fabric is too tight or the hemline rides up, you’ll know in advance.

If possible, add the shoes & accessories you plan to wear also. It will help you see how everything works together and save you from last-minute mind change.

10. Choose Comfort Over Everything

Nothing kills confidence faster than an uncomfortable outfit.

Sure, that dress will look stunning in photos. But if you can’t breathe, walk, or sit comfortably. You’ll spend the whole night counting down the minutes until you can take it off.

Always check for comfort while trying out the dresses. Shop party dresses with stretchy waistbands and adjustable straps. They are your best friends for an event where you’ll be eating, drinking, and dancing.

Because when you feel good, you look even better.

11. Accessorise Carefully

Accessories can take your look to the next level, so choose them wisely.

If your dress has bold embellishments or a standout neckline. Pair it with minimalist accessories like small stud earrings and a delicate clutch.

For simpler dresses, you can have a little more fun with statement jewellery, sparkly heels, or even a bold red lip. A classic pair of nude or black heels is always a safe bet. But don’t be afraid to experiment with metallic or coloured shoes if you want.

12. Pair with Fresh Makeup & Simple Hairstyle

Your makeup and hairstyle should complement your dress, not compete with it.

If your dress is bold or heavily embellished. Go for a natural or no-makeup look with soft eyeshadow, dewy skin, and a nude lip.

For a more classic outfit, add a little drama with a red lip or winged eyeliner. The same goes for your hair. Loose waves, sleek ponytails, or messy buns always work with formal dresses.

13. Trust Your Instincts

At the end of the day, the best formal dress is the one that you decide.  

If you try on a dress and instantly feel confident, that’s the one. Keep every fashion rulebook aside and trust your instincts. Because when you feel good, you radiate confidence.

Whether you want some understated elegance or full-on glamour. Don’t let anyone else’s opinion sway your choice.

Looking to Buy Womens Dresses Online Australia?

Make Your Next Event Unforgettable with Les Trois

At Les Trois, we believe that every woman deserves to feel beautiful.

Our collection of women’s party dresses Australia and holiday clothing takes you through every moment with effortless style. From glamorous cuts to soft and breathable fabrics. Our dresses are made to let you shine wherever life takes you.

Your new favourite outfit is just a click away.

Check Our Formal Outfits for Women Online Australia

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