The Guide to Dressing for a Gala

Unlike the typical parties you’re used to attending, a gala is a more formal event where you get to dazzle in a gorgeous gown. If you’ve been invited to a gala, don’t hesitate to start planning your outfit early; the earlier, the better!

If you’re worried about what dress to wear to a gala, we’ve got you covered!

The Dress Code

A gala is a formal event that usually has different forms of entertainment and performances and is used to mark a unique event or fundraise money for charity. There are quite a number of dress codes for galas with ‘formal’ as the main theme.

The most common gala attire is the black-tie dress code, which requires that men come in tuxedos; a dinner jacket and matching pants, pleated white shirts, and black bow ties. For ladies, this means you dress in formal floor-length evening dresses, cocktail dresses, or ball gowns.

Similar to the black-tie dress code is the optional black-tie attire, which gives you a bit more flexibility. We still recommend a mid-length or full-length gown for women, and a tuxedo or dark colored suit for men.

Lastly, there’s semi-formal attire which is more of a cocktail attire. Women can wear cocktail dresses, bold prints, and even a nicely tailored pant and top. For men, a suit jacket and dress pants are perfect. Men can lean on darker colors during winter months and lighter  shades during the spring and summer.  

Regardless of what the dress code says, it’s important to look the part, and so you must dress elegantly and wear gala-appropriate outfits.

General Gala Dress Tips

As you begin to plan your outfit for the gala, here are some things you should consider:

1. Dress Appropriately

As mentioned earlier, a Gala is a formal event, so selecting the appropriate gown and following the dress code is necessary. It’s common to see co-workers, organizational partners, future business partners, and other work-related people, so looking and feeling the best in your attire is important. It’s always okay to stand out and try out the latest trends, just ensure your attire fits the evening!

2. Flatter Your Figure

When you think of what dress to wear to a gala, you should think of something that accentuates your figure. You want to find something flattering and even have it tailored perfectly to your silhouette. A few tips for your body shape:

• Hourglass: For a curvy, hourglass figure look for gowns that have v necklines, cinched-in waist lines and form fitting tops.
• Pear: When it comes to a pear shaped body, try looking for fuller skirts or strapless tops.
• Athletic: Athletic figures are all about balance. Look for gowns that balance your upper body with embellishments and ruffles.
• Apple: If you have an apple-shaped figure, finding a dress that draws attention to your upper body is ideal. Look for belted styles, embellished tops or even an empire west. Also look for a-line gowns and fuller skirts.

3. Wear a Great Shoe

Your shoes can, ultimately, complete your entire gala look. Whether you choose to wear a stunning heel  or formal flat, ensure they match your outfit perfectly.

Medium high-heeled shoes work excellently on knee-length gowns. If your fabric is exquisite and absolutely glamorous, then strappy high-heeled sandals or pointy-toed stilettos will make a fabulous combo. Whatever your choice, make sure you are comfortable in them.

A Few Gala Go-To’s

Finding a gown that is formal, flattering, and comfortable can be a challenge. Here’s a few of our favorite go-to gala styles!

• Floor-Length Dress: Floor Length gowns are the most common types of gala dresses. Floor length gowns in classic, solid colors are always a guaranteed show stopper. Consider a full length gown in black, navy, burgundy or nude to get the look that never goes out of style.

• High Low Dress: A high-low dress is a gown with a cut above the knee and a flowing skirt behind. The right high-low gown will give you the sophisticated charm you need at the gala.

• Jumpsuit: To step outside the box, consider rocking a high-end designer jumpsuit to your gala. A classic, formal jumpsuit with a great heel can give you a unique look.

• Cocktail Dresses: Cocktail gowns are perfect for semi-formal attire dress codes because they are less formal. Still look for a more formal cocktail dress for a gala event.

Off to the Gala You Go

Preparing to go to a gala should be fun and exciting! Now that you know the Dos and Don’ts of the event, it’s time to have fun shopping for the right look. Check out our selection of formal, gala gowns at NewYorkDress now!