How To Choose the Perfect Evening Wear Color
An invitation kicks off the search for the perfect evening dress, whether you’ll be attending a cocktail party, a formal dinner, or an annual corporate event. The invitation will also be your guide for the level of formality expected. A black-tie event calls for an elegant gown, while cocktail parties imply slightly more casual fun. Along with length and style, the dress code and location of the event influence the hues that will be appropriate for your outfit. Use these tips for choosing the perfect color for your evening wear to find a flattering dress that will make you feel beautiful and comfortable.
Skin, Hair and Eyes
Everyone has a unique color palette that derives from the combination of their skin tone, hair color, and eyes. Colors that work with your features are the most flattering. Contrasting colors can create a visually appealing ensemble. For instance, if you have dark hair and fair skin, jewel tones and saturated colors will complement your contrasting color palette. Dark skin looks great in bright hues such as yellow, orange, and cobalt blue. Avoid colors that make you look washed-out or that match your hair and skin so closely you disappear into the color.
Shade matters too. You can dial back every color on the color wheel to nearly white or deepen it to a richer, more saturated tone. Look at color palettes and shades online to get a sense of the depth of color that will best flatter your look.
Accent Colors and Patterns
A formal gown in a solid color will benefit from a few accessories in a coordinating accent color. Shoes or a bag that pops against the dress are a way to add personality without overpowering the elegance of a formal gown. Florals are fine in summer but look out of place at a winter ball. Likewise, beads, sequins, and metallics can be a bit glitzy for a fundraiser but are very fun for a cocktail get-together.
A work event calls for more caution. A screaming neon dress with a high slit or low neckline will draw the wrong kind of attention amongst your coworkers. While a little black dress will never go out of style, it’s possible to find a brighter, more flattering color that still looks professional. Navy, purple, teal, or Kelly green can work with a more conservative cut for a work affair.
Trendy colors don’t work on everyone. Don’t choose a color just because you see it everywhere—imagine how that color will look on you. Choosing the perfect color for evening wear means choosing a color that brings out your best features, including your personality. Boutique evening dresses come in every color and shade, so you can dial up your perfect color on the color wheel.