Attending a gala this season and simply wondering what to wear to a gala?
Going to a formal event like a gala is so exciting, but can be so tough to dress for!
While working for a non-profit, I’ve attended a few different galas in the past. And while the wardrobe question is always a bit of a head scratcher, I’ve got some tips and guidelines for you to follow to look fabulous for a great event.
If you’re in your glamorous event era, these tips for what to wear to a movie premiere might be just what you need for your next outing.
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What To Wear To A Gala
Galas could be intimidating, but having the right outfit inspiration can take the pressure off.
I love some of these dresses:
1. Asymmetrical
The asymmetrical form of this dress really makes it stand out from all of your other black cocktail dresses. Being one of the key elements of design, asymmetry is just as important as symmetry.
2. Keyhole Detail
I adore this keyhole detailing at the neckline. It makes it so that you can find a little bit of skin without being provocative or flashy.
3. Simple And Glamorous
With something that shines like this, let the sparkles do the talking.
4. Silver Sheen
I’m personally obsessed with draping and silver sheen of this dress. It’s simple and it’s easy to accessorize, and it makes a splash.
5. Corset Piece
A corset piece is a classic detail for an evening gown. This is a more modern version of something we have literally seen for centuries.
Style Ideas
If you need something a little more stylized than simple, I love some flashy details that are still elegant. That can be hard to find, but if you understand how to balance, it can be something fabulous.
6. Lightly Feathered
Feathers can be a little too much for a gala, but these are so light and airy, you can make this work on a simply cut and styled gown.
7. Ruching And Volume
The sleeve with volume and ruching down the length of the dress are stunning details.
8. Almost Beachy
A beachy look in a formal setting is wildly beautiful.
9. Your Color
Picking a gown in your color can go a long way when it comes to styling! It doesn’t have to be the most unique dress you’ve ever seen, but in a color that fits you like a glove, it’s going to look extraordinary.
10. Drama
If your dress code includes the words “white tie” this is the move. A ball gown with all of the drama. Use this fit and cut as inspiration as to what to look for in something with a little more drama to it as well.
11. Hair Up
Wearing a dress with this much going on is a statement, and my favorite way to style something like this is with a pulled-back hair look.
Gala Dress Codes
Let’s discuss dress codes. For something like a gala, always opt for more dressed up if you’re not sure. This is definitely an event where it’s possible to be underdressed.
Floor length evening gowns are a great place to start. This doesn’t have to look like a ball gown, but think maxi dresses in elegant fabrics and cuts. The idea photos should give you a good reference!
If the invitation specifies something a little more relaxed like semi-formal, then you can totally go for a shorter dress, but I still wouldn’t even go near the category of mini dresses.
My first gala, I wore a midi body con dress that had a half-cape attached. The cape made the length of the dress occasion-appropriate.
How To Accessorize For A Gala
Even if you have the dress down, maybe you need a little help with add ons.
- For shoes, unless you really don’t wear them well, I would go with heels. A good pair of flats can be okay, but I would make sure that they’re a dressier style than the basics.
- I usually opt for a classic pointed toe pump. Red, black, anything as long as it’s a timeless style.
- For a purse, go for a clutch. Sparkly or super minimal, you’ve got the best
I love a special occasion that gives you something to look forward to and change up your usual rotation of outfits. And a gala is better than just a party or a wedding, because it’s usually a little dressier than your usual wedding invitation, and they’re typically for a really great cause.
Getting dressed up for the sake of charity or to celebrate a momentous occasion makes it even better, and these outfit tips should give you just the right idea for how to make it special.
I always feel like a million bucks when I love my outfit and feel like I’m rocking something fabulous, so have the best time getting dolled up and celebrating something great.