So you’ve received one of those smart invitations on stiff white card with embossed, gold script. The event in question could be a cocktail reception, a glamorous charity ball or star-studded party – whatever it is, you need to look the part. Channelling your inner party princess can be tough if you are unused to red carpet bashes and A list soirees, but do not worry, help is at hand. We have an access all areas pass to glamour central and we’ve got it all covered. Read on for the low down on looking perfect for the high life…
The dress
The style and type of dress is dictated by the event. A cocktail party will demand dresses that conform to the cocktail conventions. Knee length and midi dresses all work at such events but avoid floor length gowns which are better suited to more formal gatherings. Fitted bandage dresses are excellent for cocktail bashes as they bridge the gap between glamour and sophistication with ease. Select bandage dresses in rich jewel shades such as cobalt and scarlet, or opt for on-trend nude tones for contemporary, cutting edge appeal.
Charity galas invariably expect you to turn up rocking a full length gown. With a million styles to choose from, the best advice is to select a colour that compliments your skin tone first, then take it from there. Remember to accentuate the positives and disguise the negatives – décolletage, waist and length of leg can all be highlighted in a good way with the correct style of dress. For old style glamour set yourself apart from the crowd by hiring or buying vintage designs that present you like a film siren. Alternatively, go for a subversive look and deck yourself out in a tuxedo with flirty accessories for the ultimate in androgynous, femme fatale fashion.
The jewels
You don’t have to break the bank to wear jewels that look a million dollars. Sparkly costume jewellery has the same impact as priceless gems and is much less nerve-wracking to wear. Demure pearls around the neck, at the ear and on the wrist will always be elegant and classy and work with just about any outfit. Glassy jewels in paste can come in a rainbow of shades to accentuate the colours in your dress. As well as the conventional styles, consider also jewellery such as chokers, tiaras, cuffs, anklets and even face jewellery which is making inroads into the mainstream from street fashion.
The hair
Polished chignons, up-dos, French braids, loose curls or sleek swept back hairstyles can all help boost your glamour rating. The neckline of your dress should be taken into consideration so that you choose a hairstyle that compliments the way it sits. High neck dresses look amazing with swept up chignons for super elegance, conversely low necklines are stunning when teamed with tumbling curls. Remember to embellish hair with super-shine serums for glossy appeal and accessorise intelligently with interesting hair-jewellery such as tiaras, headbands, hairpins, slides, ribbons and beading.
The make-up
Less is definitely more when it comes to glamorous make up. Check out any of the red carpet ladies in Hollywood and you will notice how understated their make up appears. That’s not to say they aren’t wearing a lot, it’s just very subtle and under played. Defining eyes, lips, cheekbones and brows is all about using a light touch to create dramatic effects. Smouldering eyes with smudged charcoal shades and deep scarlet lips look fabulous – but not at once. Choose one or the other, if you opt for both you start heading in the direction of a Panto dame, not the effect you want. If it’s make-up for a night of glamorous clubbing there’s more room for glitter, sheen and shine with sweeping eye liners, diamanté encrusted lashes and glossy, pouty lips.
Cosmetics are your friend when it comes to achieving glamorous results, but you must know when to stop. Great lighting, a large mirror and an honest and trusted gal-pal on hand for advice and a second opinion can be invaluable.
Glamour can be a tough call sometimes – it’s just as easy to go overboard on the glitz and glitter as it is to under-play it. Getting the right balance is something that’s hard to achieve but when you get the key ingredients right, perfection is possible. Starting from a strong base with a dress that looks amazing is always the best way forward. Now we’ve removed all the guesswork, go and discover your inner party princess!