Finding the perfect fancy dress is challenging. Whether you’re headed to a Halloween party or a themed costume event, costume shopping is super stressful.
Unfortunately, many people make avoidable mistakes when it comes to buying costumes and wearing them. Want to avoid that from happening? Follow these dress-up do’s and don’ts:
Do’s of Fancy Dresses
Here are four things you should do when buying and wearing a fancy dress:
Be Creative
Attending a fancy dress event is the perfect opportunity to showcase creativity.
Let’s get one thing straight: You don’t have to completely DIY a costume to be creative. It begins with choosing the costume itself. Consider your interests and find something that complements them. For movie-lovers, dressing up as their favourite character is a dream come true.
Moreover, get a girls fancy dress from a store, but transform it into something more. Add accessories and make alterations to make it look like the outfit was made just for you.
Start Costume Shopping Early
This can’t be emphasised enough. Last-minute shopping almost always leads to stress. Learn the theme of the party and start costume shopping as early as possible. You will have time to find something you actually like.
Prioritise Comfort
Fancy dress events and costume parties can sometimes be a sensory nightmare. The music might be too loud, the lights too bright, or there might be too many people. Your dress should be comfortable.
Stick to breathable and moisture-wicking fabrics. Make sure the dress isn’t too tight to ensure movement.
Choose the Right Accessories
A fancy dress is incomplete without accessories. Wigs, hats, brooms, fake weapons, tiaras, and jewellery pieces elevate the look, taking it from “cute” to “wow.”
Dressing up as Doctor Strange? Get a purple, flowy cape to complete the outfit.
Don’ts of Wearing a Fancy Dress
Always avoid these three things when dressing up for a fancy party:
Don’t Buy the Cheapest Option Available
We get it — fancy dresses are expensive. But that doesn’t mean you have to buy the cheapest option available. There is a high chance they are made from low-quality and uncomfortable fabrics.
Instead, find fancy dress stores with affordable pricing. A little research will go a long way. You can also thrift your costume to save money and resources.
Avoid Offensive Costumes
Other people’s religion is not your costume inspiration. Dressing up as figures in any religion can come off as distasteful. The same goes for cultural outfits. Native American headdresses, ponchos, and sombreros can be offensive.
You should also stay clear of tragic historical events or religious innuendos. Don’t ruin the vibe of a fancy dress event with a culturally offensive outfit.
Don’t Discard Your Costume
Your fancy dress is an investment. Don’t discard it after one use. Instead, take proper care of your costume. Wash any stains, air-dry it, and store it.
An old costume can be re-purposed or even worn at a different event, such as Halloween parties. This will help you save both time and money.