Formal Gown of a different flavour

Hi everyone

I kind of need some advice on an evening gown with some slightly different circumstances.

I recently went from a size 5x to a 16 (probably truly a 12 but loose skin), which leads to a problem. To hide said... skin..ew.. I wear slimmers. They go from ankle to waist. I am relatively short (5'4), short torso and a true hourglass figure. I need an evening gown, teacher of the year banquet in March.

The gowns I look at that I like best are strapless floor length (formal). I'm a natural redhead (auburn), I like the light feminine colors such as ivory and pastel pink but have been told a bold color is better since I am so terribly pale. I need to consider a few factors.

I like the empire waist gowns, would a no waist dress be bad for someone of my build? How about strapless or spaghetti straps? Perhaps a wrap around the upper arm, to detract from the hips and draw the gaze up (as suggested in the short torso section I read). The dress needs to be floor length.

Any help or advice is greatly appreciated!!!

18 years ago

pinkcobra

Active Member

First, let me say Congratulations on your amazing weight loss!!

I think the wrap is a good idea, you might also consider a cropped jacket...perhaps with sheer sleeves? They can look very elegant.

I know you said you like pastels better, but my Mom is also a redhead and very pale and she looks stunning in greens. Whatever you choose, have fun and pick something that you're comfortable in!

Nicole

Veteran

Yes, congrats on the weightloss!

If you are busty, then an empire waist might not work on your hourglass shape. You won't know until you try one though. (Empire waists make me look pregnant). I think a dress that follows the overall shape of your body, nipping in at the waist then skimming over your hips would look lovely. Sometimes it takes our eyes a while to get accustomed to seeing our figure. If you typically wear loose clothes, you might not like the way you look in something more fitted. Do you have a trusted friend/spouse that you could take shopping with you, try on some different styles in front of them and get an honest opinion from? Usually wearing clothes that are form fitting make a person look slimmer. Hiding behind oversized, high volume clothes just makes a person look bigger. What about something like this?

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

An incredible weight loss achievement! Well done!

Stick to dresses that are fit and flares. Fitted on top and slightly A-line or flared at the bottom. Shapes like these are universally flattering. Accentuate the smallest part of your body which might be the area underneath your bust. Opt for a short bolero jacket that’s three quarter sleeve in length to wear over a strapless style gown. Straps will also look nice. Keep your neckline low –ish to elongate your neck and give you height. I’d go for a stronger richer hue for colour. Pastels look best on darker skin tones. My preference would be a rich shade of an antique purple to complement your pale skin and auburn hair.

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