Although LBDs and cocktail dresses are more than enough for most occasions, some events just call for something a little more…grand. For weddings, balls, and other big celebrations, you shouldn’t be scared to dress to the nines. When you see “formal dress code” on the invite, it’s time to break out those ball gowns and long evening dresses.
But if you don’t have gorgeous designer digs on hand, don’t worry. There are lots of boutiques in Perth that can help you out. We put together a list of the top shops for stunning ball dresses in every style, size, and colour.
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What Is The Formal Dress Style?
The thing about dress codes is that they are ambiguous enough to allow for some flexibility. And every event organiser will have their own interpretation of what each dress code means. So if you’re in doubt about what kinds of ensembles count as “formal”, it’s always best to ask the host or other event-goers to find out what would be appropriate.
But if you can’t ask, then you can follow this guide! A formal dress code is usually one of the strictest codes of dress for women. You should aim to look your very best – classy, elegant, and sophisticated. It usually entails long, floor-length gowns, heels, and hair and makeup. Gloves are optional but encouraged for more sophisticated occasions, like black tie events.
There are many different kinds of events where you may be required to come in formal. These include weddings, school formals, prom, galas, balls, theatrical performances, and more. Formal gowns may be too dressy for most events, so stick to semi-formal or cocktail attire for company outings, day/outdoor weddings, most restaurants, and holiday get-togethers.
The Top 10 Formal Dresses In Perth
Heidi Wrap A-Line
Price: Available upon request
Store: Dion For Brides
This soft, baby blue boho dress is just the right style for a wedding. For more gorgeous dresses, check out the rest of Dion for Brides’ product range, which includes maxi gowns from major designers such as Grace and Hart and Saint the Label.
Shop the Heidi Wrap A-line here.
Renaissance Gown
Price: Hire for $AUD 99
Store: That Dress For Hire
You can rent this beautiful 1920s-inspired embellished gown with luxurious gold accents for cheap, thanks to That Dress For Hire’s special event dress hire service. You can book a fitting to ensure that your dress fits perfectly before your big event.
Shop the Renaissance Gown here.
Savannah
Price: Buy for $AUD 249
Store: Luv Bridal & Formal
The adjustable, multi-way Savannah gown from Luv Bridal & Formal is the perfect dress for bridesmaids. The dress “transforms” into more than a dozen different styles to suit your entourage’s body types. The dress is available in multiple colours and caters to all sizes from petite to plus size.
Shop the Savannah here.
Cassie
Price: Available upon request
Store: A Bridal Affair
Unfortunately, A Bridal Affair is closing up shop soon. But you can get all of their formal dresses at a huge discount, including this beautiful deep read ball gown (which is also available in rose and black).
Shop the Cassie here.
Milena
Price: Buy for $AUD 429.95
Store: Goldilocks
The puffy long sleeves on the Milena gown lend it an air of sweetness and romance. The dress is currently on sale, and you can get this cute satin number for half price.
Buy the Milena here.
Shimmering V-Neck Ball Gown
Price: Available upon request
Store: Haute on High
You’ll be sure to turn everyone’s heads as you walk into the room with this bright blue metallic ball gown from famed international designer Sherri Hill. They offer free shipping for orders over $50, and you can visit their Fremantle boutique to ensure the perfect fit before ordering.
Shop the Shimmering V-Neck Ball Gown here.
Gunmetal Beaded Plunging Neckline Prom Dress
Price: Buy for $AUD 850
Store: Lace and Button
This is a dress that just demands attention. Jovani’s line of beaded Gatsby-esque gowns are all absolute stunners. We’re personal fans of the gunmetal variation, but you can get this and his other styles in other colours like burgundy, white, and navy.
Shop the Gunmetal Beaded Plunging Neckline Prom Dress here.
Winnie Gown
Price: Buy for $495
Store: Gossip Gowns
Sometimes simple and minimalist is best. The Winnie gown is versatile and can be worn to pretty much any event. You can even dress it down with flats or sandals for a more casual outdoor wedding.
Shop the Winnie Gown here.
Brooklyn Gown
Price: Hire for $AUD 130
Store: Cinderella Hub
You’ll have to make an appointment at Cinderella Hub’s Clarkson shop to fit their dresses, but it’s worth it. Browse their incredible selection of secondhand dress hires for affordable designer gowns for all occasions.
Shop the Cinderella Hub on their Facebook page here.
Conclusion
It’s not every day that you get the opportunity to dress up, so make the most out of every formal event you’re invited to! What are you waiting for? Get to shopping! These formal dresses in Perth will help bring out the drop-dead gorgeous princess inside you.
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