I am in eighth grade so I have a graduation in a few weeks before I go to high school. This occasion also has a dance, and it is a semi-formal/formal event. Because of this I had to go dress shopping. So, I figured I should probably write an article instructing those who are untrained in dress shopping. But, be warned, this is a very difficult task.
Before you even leave your residence to go to the mall you should have an idea in mind of what your dress should look like. But, you also need to remember to keep an open mind. I went to the mall wanting a black dress with spaghetti straps, a short slightly poofy skirt, and a sweetheart neckline. I came home with a strapless, straight necked, snug, empire waist, short dress with green on top and navy on the bottom. (Believe me, it looks much better than it sounds.)
Here are some rules that I kept in mind while shopping for an eighth grade graduation dress:
- nothing below the knee, it’s not prom
- NO cutouts, they look trampy on a 14-year-old
- NO backless dresses (same reason as above)
- nothing above three inches above the knee, if that
- nothing see-through
- no sequins, again it’s not prom, half of your dress doesn’t have to be blinding everybody else in the room (I also don’t like sequins, I think they look very fake [no offense to those who do like them])
- I also highly suggest no white or cream, too easy to stain.
Here are some other guide lines for body types:
- Sporty body shape (muscular) : Go with a length just above the knee, this is a good length specially if you are insecure about your thighs. Spaghetti straps or no straps are also good if you have broader shoulders or are insecure about them. If so, DO NOT get a halter, that will make them look huge, especially to you. Empire waists are also good. (And they make the girls appear larger!)
- Hourglass: Just about anything will work, especially if it accents your waist. Just try not to get anything too snug, it will come off very trashy.
- Larger bust: Do NOT go strapless! Halters always look great, as do empire waists.
- Larger hips: Obviously this means you have an hourglass body shape, but if your hips are larger than your bust/ribcage, a more flowy dress will make them look more proportional and just look good on you in general.
- Larger around the tummy: Flowy empire waist dresses are the way to go, 100%
Well, I hope this helps. If you have any questions leave them in a comment and I will be sure to respond. (: