A ball gown is a type of long dress that is fitted at the bodice, with a very full skirt. It is the most decorous and luxurious style dress that a woman can wear. It is normally worn to very formal events and social occasions, or "black tie affairs." The traditional ballgown came into being during the Pre-Victorian and the Victorian eras.
Back then, women were supposed to wear formal attire almost all of the time; it was associated with a woman's image and stature.
Now, however, ball gowns come in a wide-array of designs and styles, and they aren't usually worn to casual events anymore. The fabrics really have not changed tremendously (we can get ballgowns in almost any fabric, including but not limited to: silks, velvets, lace, and sequins).The most common questions that women ask about ball gowns are: "How do I know if the gown is too formal or not?"or, "How do I know what type of Ball gown will look right on me?" These are two very valid inquiries since a formal event usually means that you want to look your absolute best!! So, here are a few tips from someone who knows a little about the world of formal attire.
Go with a gown style and shape that accentuates your body type and your most flattering areas. For instance, a full bodied gown doesn't always look right on a woman who has an hour-glass figure and hips, but a certain make of A-line may look perfect on them. In terms of how to wear the dress, this stems from the style that you choose.
As an example, we'll use the A-line style: A-line gowns are cut close at the waist, are narrow towards the top/bodice area, and then continue to expand along the length of the dress. Whereas, a "mermaid" shape is fitted to the very contours of a woman's body. It is made for women who are often tall and have a slender figure.
If you are self-conscious about your weight, then this dress option is not the right one for you! Also, go with a color and fabric that you love!! By now, most women are aware of which colors work for them, and which don't. For instance, I cannot pull off anything in red, no matter what it is because I have very pale/fair skin. However, blacks and dark purples look perfect on me!! Everyone is different so make it fun when you pick out your gown, and be sure it reflects your style and personality!!