5 Ways to Find the Perfect Dress for any Occasion

The feeling you get when you put on the perfect dress is unmatched, but unfortunately, it can be all too elusive. Whether you're searching for a sorority dress or are hunting for the perfect job interview outfit, finding the right dress for the occasion can be challenging.

A limited budget and a plethora of options can also make it particularly hard to find the right dress. But rest assured, the right dress is out there. In order to find it, you'll need to select a dress that is cut perfectly, features practical fabrics, and is well priced. This article will help you to do just that and more.

1. Set a budget and stick to it

You closest shouldn't cause you to go into debt or to need to consider a balance transfer credit card. When hunting for the right dress, it's important that you first establish a reasonable budget. Doing so will help you to narrow down options, and will ensure that you spend your money responsibly.

Considering that the average American who is in credit card debt owes nearly $16,000, it's possible that a friend who lives above her means may pressure you to purchase a dress that is out of the budget.

But remember, just because a dress fits just right, doesn't mean it is worth investing in. If you think that the dress can be worn on a variety of occasions, and thus might end up saving you from needing to make future purchases, it may be a good idea to splurge. Otherwise, stick to your budget and opt for a dress that fits well and is well priced.

2. Know what kind of dress flatters you most

According to a report cited in Vogue, how you dress impacts self-perception. For example, the study found that people who wore doctor's coats when taking a medical school exam performed better than those who wore street clothes.

When we dress well, we see ourselves in a better light and therefore act more confidently and more intelligently. That means finding a dress that fits you just so can have a meaningful positive impact on how you move through the world.

Rather than settling for a dress that fits imperfectly, invest in garments that flatter your body. Start by trying on a variety of well-made dresses that feature different silhouettes. Once you've determined what cut or cuts work best, you can begin shopping for particular types of dresses that fit this description.

Remember, if a dress doesn't fit perfectly you can always take it to a tailor. Tailors are experts at making minor but meaningful alterations that transform how a dress fits.

3. Keep up with the latest fashion trends

A study conducted by Vocativ found that, on average, fashion trends operate on a twenty-year cycle. That means something that is in style today will come back in style twenty years from now. Keep fashion trends in mind when searching for the right dress. The last thing you want to do is purchase a dress that quickly goes out of style, and becomes unwearable as a result.

Instead, search for dresses that are relatively classic and feature mainstream colors. A black dress will always be in style, for example, though it's possible that dress details or specific cuts may go out of style.

In order to get a sense of what's 'in' consider using a Pinterest to quickly browse curated (and shoppable) collections. Alternatively, you can always turn to tried-and-true fashion magazines like Vogue or Harper's Bazaar to get a sense of the hottest styles.

Just remember, if you find a dress you once loved is no longer fashionable, it likely will become fashionable in just a few years. Assuming the dress still fits, consider leaving it in the back of your closet until it is once again wearable.

4. Check the return policy

While it may seem obvious, it's always a good idea to check the return policy before purchasing a dress. According to a recent article, nearly 9 percent of all items purchased in a traditional store are returned, and roughly 30 percent of items ordered online are returned.

If the dress you purchased isn't up to your standards, don't hesitate to return it. On the other hand, if you just bought the dress in order to try it on at home, consider renting a high-fashion dress first.

Rent the Runway offers women a variety of well-made dresses to rent for a reasonable price. One of their plans for super users allows members to rent an unlimited number of dresses per month.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect dress doesn't need to be stressful. Simply set a budget, and search for styles that are fashionable and flattering.

What tips do you have for those searching for the right dress? Let us know in the comments below!