Sounds lovely to me. And it makes me wish that I had just such an event to look forward to this year. :)
Regardless of whether you are anticipating a Christmas ball or not, I thought it would be fun to offer some yummy evening gown inspiration. While browsing various high fashion stores, I was surprised and delighted to stumble upon some beautiful designs which were fairly modest. I think it's wonderful that high fashion designers are realizing (even if it is by accident) that baring everything is not the best way to go and that a gown can be just as lovely and glamourous when it is conservative and classy.
I have really been happy that the asymmetrical, one-strap trend has been rising in popularity. It is really hard to find a strapless dress that is fairly modest, and usually I find that they look unflattering on most figures. It's nice that there's a new, much more flattering option breaking into the world of evening gowns.
The great thing about the one-strap designs is that they provide a whole lot more coverage that most dresses and don't continually need to be tugged up or arranged for modesty. Of course, depending on your standards (and I realize that these are different for everyone), it still might feel too "strapless", but there's no denying that these styles are a step in the right direction.
A great way to adapt a strapless gown into something more modest (and usually more flattering ;) is the addition of a matching jacket/shrug/bolero. These can add some interest and pretty details (like the sheer ruched sleeves on the blue gown). They also cover up exposed back, if you prefer not to show that. A well-fitting strapless dress that has a matching jacket is a simple and stress-free solution to finding a modest evening gown.
Both of these gowns are rather form-fitting throughout the hips, but I like the addition of the ruching on the red gown, which usually keeps things from looking too-tight. The bodice of the blue gown is also ruched and has a gorgeous beaded waistband. It's all about the details!
With the popular trend of yoked neck shirts and dresses has come a lot more coverage up top. Although I initially disliked the style, I am now a big fan. I much prefer to see girls exposing a shoulder or two than wearing super-low tops. :P (Although that is a personal opinion and not meant to be a rule. lol ;)
The black gown shown here is cut in the yoked style but also provides sheer sleeves and a bodice to cover things a bit more. The pleated bodice design "wraps" around the yoke, which has some fabulous details. The royal blue gown also has a pleated bodice and (oh joy!) a nicely cut neckline and sleeves.
Here are two brilliant examples of modest evening wear. Both gowns feature two pieces, with three-quarter sleeves and both look very formal and lovely without having to expose skin. Long, sleek black skirts like these are so nice... and both tops provide interesting details - from rosette sleeves on the first to the wide, ruffled collar on the second.
And, of course, there are some equally classy sleeveless options... which showcase the same details in a different way. So pretty. :)
Lastly, here are two super cute and super modest designs. I think these dresses are pretty much perfect - you know you've scored big when a dress doesn't look "modest", just classy and stylish. This is how it should be. :)
I hope these images have provided you with some inspiration and given you ideas for finding the perfect style evening gown for you - IF you've got that Christmas Ball coming up. If not, you can just stay home with me and just dream.
Remember, although I have shown expensive designer options in this post, there are similar looks and pieces available at pretty much any price range. You can check out your local evening wear boutiques, shop online, or purchase a sewing pattern and make your own. Now it's your turn to be frugal and creative while picking out the perfect Cinderella ball gown... :)
Image Credits: NeimanMarcus.com / SaksFifthAvenue.com
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