Plus Size Semi Formal Dresses
From LoveToKnow Plussize
Plus size semi-formal dresses come in a variety of fabrics, lengths and styles. With this broad spectrum of choices, many people wonder what is actually appropriate.
What Semi-Formal Means
If you've received an invitation that states semi-formal attire is required, you may be wondering exactly what that means. Should your dress be knee-length or longer? Does it mean you have to wear a dress or do you have other options? These are good questions, but there isn't a single easy answer. That's because the term semi-formal is multi-faceted and flexible. In the long run, this is good news because it gives you more options for what to wear to that semi-formal event; the bad news is that you still have to figure out what to wear. All the possibilities actually make it easier to find something you really like.
Hem Length
First of all, let's talk about hem length. Should your dress be long or short? Semi-formal dresses can actually fall within a range that encompasses anywhere from about an inch above the knee to as long as ankle length. With that said, there are a couple of other factors to consider when choosing your special plus size dress.
Semi-formal Fabrics
The fabrics used to design semi-formal wear are "dressy" but varied. Preferred fabrics include:
- Brocades
- Cashmere
- High-quality polyester
- Rayon
- Silk
- Velvet
- Velour
Semi-Formal Pant Suits
If you haven't found a dress you like for your special occasion, semi-formal attire is flexible enough to include appropriate pants suits and dress suits, too. Fabrics acceptable for these suits also include those listed above, so the wool pant suit you wear to the office won't work for a semi-formal affair. One other alternative is to wear a dressy blouse with tuxedo pants.
Semi-Formal Footwear
Once you've settled on your semi-formal dress or pant suit, you'll need to find the right shoes. In general, semi-formal footwear is usually a color that complements your outfit. Appropriate footwear is also flexible and can include anything from dressy flat sandals to heels.
Plus Size Semi-Formal Dresses and Body Type
With so many options to choose from, take your time try on different styles in plus size semi-formal dresses. Choose a cut and color that highlights your best features. For example, if you have nice legs, pick a cocktail-length style and accessorize with shoes that flatter your legs. Picking a dress just because it is a popular style may be a fashion faux pas you'll regret. Not only do you want the dress to look good and feel comfortable, but you want to find one that makes you feel good about yourself.
Tips for Buying Your Plus Size Semi-Formal Outfit
Whether you buy a dress or pant suit or skirt suit, these tips will help you select the right semi-formal outfit for you:
- Try on a variety of styles.
- Peruse online plus size catalogs for semi-formal wear to get an idea of what options are available.
- Take advantage of an online virtual model to create a model of yourself to see how different styles will look on you. (This is fun and accurate. It uses your body measurements, height, weight, face shape, skin tone and hair color.) This tool will give you an accurate view of how you'll look in your outfit from every angle.
Semi-Formal Attire for Men
Once you've found your plus size semi-formal outfit, you may find your escort or date asking the same questions. For men, what to wear for semi-formal occasions is a little clearer:
- Full suit (vest optional)
- Tie (bow or straight)
- Simple button down shirt
- Dress shoes
The key to choosing what you wear to a semi-formal event is that it is dressy. Along with that, when compared to formal wear, semi-formal outfits are fun and much more comfortable. This means you'll have a functional addition to your wardrobe that you'll actually be happy to wear more than once!
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This page has been accessed 2,717 times. This page was last modified 13:23, 22 June 2009.
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