This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Miami (OH) chapter.
Semi formal season is in full swing, signaling a time where Miami women start stressing out about the perfect dress to wear. Not to worry! Here are a few tips to help you find a dress to rock your semi-formal and look like the belle of the ball once that night rolls around.
The Classic Look: Whether you’ve put off finding a dress until last minute or just haven’t had the time to shop, every girl owns a little black dress! Even the simplest LBD can be turned into a chic look in a matter of seconds. Pair your dark number with a sparkly statement necklace, swipe of red lipstick, and some fierce heels and you’ll be set! Your look can also change with the way you do your hair. For a more casual look, create beach waves or keep your hair straight. To glam up your look, opt for a high bun or sweep all of your hair to one side. With this style, the options are endless and you’ll look classic no matter what!
The Colorful Look: Not into wearing all black? Look for a bright cocktail dress that will make you stand out. Some popular colors to wear this time of year are green (emerald specifically!), purple, blue and red, but any bright color would be a great way to switch it up and have fun with your look! Nude or black heels work best with these dresses since you want the color of your dress to be the focal point. Wear your hair in a fun fishtail braid or half up to bring attention to your face, and finish off your look with an extra swipe of mascara. For that extra glam touch, find some glittery gold eye shadow and black liquid eyeliner to create an exciting, but chic cat eye!
The Festive Look: It’s that time of year where sparkles are acceptable (thank goodness) so pick an all over sparkle shift dress, or a dress with some shimmer to help you shine at semi! Sparkly dresses come in every color so the possibilities are literally endless. My favorite colors for sequin party dresses are gold, dark green, and black, which can easily be found on websites like Tobi. These dresses are a great option because they allow you to look glamorous at the drop of a hat. Pair your dress with a nude or black heel and messy beach waves; a great way to look festive, à la Blake Lively. Finish off your look with shimmery blush or bronzer to give you that extra glow.
The Edgy Look: For those lovely ladies out there who want to look girly with some edge, go for a dark dress that has a little something extra to it. Body wrap dresses or dresses with accessories like studs on them are always a good option. For tighter bodycon dresses, fit is everything. Find a dress that is long enough to leave some to the imagination and not too tight, as you don’t want to look like you can’t breathe or enjoy those parmesean truffle fries at semi! This look allows you to be a little adventurous with your shoe option, so colorful heels or black strappy or cuffed stilettos are a great way to complete this look. Wear a dark smokey eye and sleek hair style, and you’ll for sure rock this look while looking effortlessly gorgeous!