The Best Formal Dresses

The best formal dresses are ones that flatter your figure and show your true sense of style. It's easy to blend in with the crowd on occasions like your high  school prom or your work holiday party with a taffeta number from a department store, and many of those options are beautiful. But if you want to stand out, look for a gown off the beaten path.

1. Vintage Dresses

   • If you're planning ahead, scope the formal dresses at local consignment shops and used clothing stores. Consignment shops frequently have designer dresses that are significantly marked down from their retail price, and they must be in good condition from the original owner. They tend to be somewhat more expensive than your local Goodwill, however, so if you're looking to save money, make sure you make a stop there, too. Used clothing stores will have one-of-a-kind formal dresses that you won't be able to find in a mall or catalog, and if the fit isn't exactly right, you can spend the money you saved on the dress getting it tailored.

   Simple and Understated Dresses

   • Just because it's prom doesn't mean you have to look for the dress with the most sequined appliqués. Look for a plain sheath dress in a neutral color that can be dressed up or down, and transform it with unique jewelry pieces and elegant elbow-length gloves in a bright jewel tone to create a unique look. Another benefit of the sheath dress: you'll wear it again and again, in situations both casual and dressy.

   Modified Dresses

   • If you're pressed for time, don't be afraid to look at the ready-to-wear racks at the department store. The dresses may all begin to look the same while they're on the rack, but that doesn't mean you can't get creative once you've chosen one you like. If it's a floor-length gown, chop off the hem to knee-length, or make it asymmetrical. If it's strapless, add cap sleeves in a floaty taffeta, or spaghetti straps in a bold color or pattern.

   Online Shopping for Formal Dresses

   • If you've exhausted your local shopping options, look online at the thousands of formal dresses available for purchase from near and far. Auction sites such as eBay will have used gowns available at inexpensive prices, and major retailers like Zappos and Amazon may have the dress you've been looking for. Online shopping will lead you to some of the best formal dresses because you can filter your searches by your size, color of preference, price point and style.