How to Rent the Right Party Dress for the Right Occasion
When an invite to a party pops up in your inbox, it’s important to think of the vibes and aesthetics that the event is meant to evoke. Whether you want to evoke romance, glamour, or sophistication, your dress should reflect those vibes. This means choosing a dress in a fabric that fits your frame and evokes the vibe you want to create. The style of your dress should also fit the occasion. For instance, a cocktail party is the perfect time to opt for a shimmery sequin mini. And a club-level party is a great time to rock that strappy metallic gown you’ve been eyeing.
Getting the right dress for a party doesn’t have to break the bank, especially if you plan on wearing it only once or twice. That’s why many women choose to rent a party dress instead of buying one. It’s a budget-friendly way to score an outfit you can wear again and help reduce the amount of textile waste in the world, which contributes to climate change. So, if you’re planning on attending several parties this season, consider renting a party dress to make the most of your investment.
The best party dresses are eye-catching and sexy without being over the top. “If you’re going to a cocktail party, try something in a rich hue like copper or burgundy,” Guillemette says. Or, try a short satin or taffeta dress for a classic and sophisticated formal look. If you’re aiming for that Insta-worthy photo-worthy look, go all out with a pretty bow or feather trim.
A sexy, form-fitting dress is ideal for nighttime events with your squad or a date night. For summer cocktail parties, a see-through or translucent party dress is a fun option that allows you to show off your sun-kissed glow. For a winter cocktail party, you could try a silk-satin maxi with a plunging neckline and curved back slit that’s guaranteed to stun your pals.
Party dresses can be just as stylish for juniors as they are for women, too. But, since they have shorter dress lengths and a faster turnover in trends, they’ll need to be versatile enough for multiple occasions. If you’re shopping for a junior party dress, keep in mind that the length of the dress and its fabric will have a bigger impact on the look than the color.
As for the fit, a flattering party dress should hug all your curves and highlight your best features. “Look for a dress with a flattering silhouette and a fabric that’s breathable, comfortable, and soft,” Guillemette says. This will ensure that you’re able to comfortably dance the night away. She suggests avoiding anything tight or constricting and instead opting for dresses made with a stretchy material, such as elastane, nylon, spandex, jersey, or mesh, for maximum comfort. This also applies to juniors’ dresses that have a strappy neckline or are embellished with glittery embellishments.