When it comes to turning heads and making a grand entrance, nothing quite beats the allure of a royal blue evening dress.
Owning a show-stopper is one thing, but knowing how to style it to perfection is a whole different game. Whether you’re stepping out for a bridal shower or gala, the right accessories can take your look from “nice” to jaw-droppingly amazing.
In this guide, we will spill all the secrets on how to style your royal blue evening dress like a pro.
Dress Styles and Silhouettes
When it comes to evening dresses, there are a few standout styles you might have heard of. The A-line is super flattering and looks good on curvy body types.
Then you’ve got the mermaid style that’s tight at the top and flares out at the bottom, making you look like, well, a mermaid!
The evening dress experts at Sherri Hill say it should be your number-one choice if you’ve got an hourglass figure.
The ballgown is all about that big, puffy skirt; it’s what you’d wear to feel like Cinderella for a night. It looks great on almost all body types but works particularly well with a pear-shaped figure.
Choose the Right Fabric
The suitable fabric can elevate your look and ensure you feel comfortable and pretty all night long. Silks and satins offer a luxurious feel and give off a subtle shine that complements the royal blue hue.
Chiffon is another excellent choice if you’re going for a lighter, airy look. You can also consider Lace if you want to add a touch of romance or vintage glamour. It looks both elegant and seductive and offers a textured look that adds depth to your outfit.
For colder seasons or formal events, heavier fabrics like velvet can add a rich texture that’s both warm and elegant.
When choosing the fabric, pay attention to how the fabric drapes on your body. The goal is to pick a material that suits the occasion, is comfortable to wear, and accentuates the dress’s color.
Pick Comfortable Yet Stylish Footwear
Footwear is where comfort meets style. High heels can add that oomph to your outfit, making you look taller and classy.
But remember, if you’re going to be on your feet a lot, you should consider stylish flats. Flats have come a long way, and many are just as glitzy as heels. So, go with what makes your feet happy but also suits the outfit.
Wear Statement Jewelry
Both silver and gold pieces look fabulous against the rich backdrop of royal blue. Silver and gold are both fabulous options. Silver has a way of bringing a sophisticated edge to your look, making everything feel polished, while gold brings warmth and richness.
For a modern twist, you can even opt for white or black accessories. Consider statement necklaces or earrings that bring out the color of the dress without overpowering it.
A bracelet, earrings, and a necklace can really make your blue dress pop. If you want to look classy, a minimal silver bracelet is a good pick. If you want something more eye-catching, go for a chunky gold bracelet.
Next up, let’s talk about earrings. If your face is round, go for long earrings like dangly pieces or vertical bars. If you have a more square-shaped face, round earrings like hoops or small circular studs can help create a more balanced look.
A necklace is the final touch that ties everything together. Princess-length necklaces work really well with low-cut or strapless tops.
They hang just right, drawing attention to the neckline without taking away from the dress. If your dress has a higher neckline, a choker can bring focus to that area without making it feel too crowded.
Choose Right Clutch
A clutch isn’t just a place to stash your essentials—it’s a statement piece. Traditional colors like gold, silver, and black are always safe bets. They not only harmonize with the dress but also offer a balanced contrast.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, a metallic or beaded clutch can add a little sparkle to your look. The trick is to match the clutch with your other accessories. If you’re wearing gold jewelry, for example, opt for a gold clutch to tie everything together.
Size also matters; pick a clutch that’s functional yet chic, big enough to hold what you need but not so big that it becomes a distraction.
Get the Hair and Makeup Right
For makeup, you’ve got choices. A natural look with nude tones works beautifully for almost any occasion. If you want to take it up a notch, a smoky eye could add drama without overwhelming the color of your dress. For lip color, go for a nude or light pink to keep things elegant.
For hair, consider the style of your dress. Detailed or embellished necklines often pair well with updos to ensure the dress itself is the focal point. For simpler necklines, you have more freedom.
Loose curls provide a romantic look, while straight hair offers a sleek, modern vibe. Ultimately, your hair should complement your dress and makeup, pulling your whole look together.
Layer for Elegance
Sometimes, a single layer just doesn’t cut it, especially in cooler weather. For a royal blue evening dress, consider a light shawl or a fitted blazer.
You can also go for a long coat for a more dramatic effect. Keep the colors neutral to let the dress shine. If your dress is sleeveless or has spaghetti straps, a simple wrap could add elegance without compromising the dress’s design.
Tips for Different Occasions
For a formal event like a gala or wedding, aim for elegance. Gold jewelry, a sophisticated clutch, and a classic hairstyle can elevate your look.
For less formal events, like a cocktail party, you might go for more playful accessories, like funky earrings or a vibrant clutch. Remember, the key is to balance your look by considering where you’re going and what the occasion calls for.
Final Thoughts on Choosing a Royal Blue Evening Dress
A royal blue evening dress looks fantastic, but the real magic happens when everything else falls into place. From the right fabric and shoes to the perfect accessories and makeup, each choice you make adds up. Get it right, and you’ll feel as great as you look, no matter what event you’re at.
We recommend starting with the fabric. Satin, chiffon, and lace are your go-to options. Shoes and jewelry are key as well. High heels might make you look classy, but if you’re up and dancing, you might want to think about comfy flats. As for jewelry, both silver and gold work great with a royal blue dress.
Makeup and hair also play a huge role. You can keep it simple with natural tones or add some drama with a smokey eye. Your hair should go well with the dress and makeup, giving you a complete look that feels just right for you.
Lastly, think about where you’re going. If it’s a fancy event, go for a satin dress, high heels, gold jewelry, and a classy clutch. On the flip side, if it’s a more laid-back party, you can keep it chill with a chiffon dress, comfy flats, and some fun, colorful accessories.
A simpler bag and loose curls will do the trick, helping you look and feel your best.
