There are a lot of special occasions that require a formal dress including weddings, school dances, corporate events, and holiday parties. So where do you start looking? I can tell you step one " stay away from your local mall! Why would you want to shop where everyone else going to your event  is also most likely going  to shop?

Know that there are two thing you should be considering when dress shopping:

1. shop for something that is appropriate for your body and 2. appropriate for the event you are attending.

These are two simple criteria that will drastically narrow down your choices. Lets delve a little deeper into these issues.

What does it mean to wear something appropriate for the event? First of all, it does not mean that you have to wear a pant suit to a corporate function. However, it does mean that you should not put on your shortest mini-skirt and your tallest high heels. So, put some thought into what activities will be taking place (where there be a lot of sitting, dancing etc) and what image you want to portray of yourself. You may look smoking hot in a dress, but is it what you want your boss to see you in? If you hold out for it, the perfect dress will make you look hot while also portraying an appropriate image.

The next step is finding a dress that is appropriate for you, and i mean your body. You can buy an expensive designer gown - but if it is nt flattering you will still not look good.

After you have figured out what type of dress is appropriate for the event and for you, then finalizing a choice should be easy. Not only that, you have chosen a dress that is perfect for you, for your body, and for your night. Nothing else is left except to pick out amazing accessories and have a night to remember! And take a lot of pictures of course.