From teens to adults, people fret about what to wear to a special occasion to the point where they get stressed out thinking and worrying about it. Whether to impress their date, look good in front of their peers, or just trying to attract the right mate, wearing the right outfit tends to be an important ritual in many people’s lives. But, before deciding what to wear, one must define “special occasion.” A special occasion can be placed in different categories, whether formalwear, semi-formalwear, cocktail dress, or just casual but nice.

  Formalwear involves dressing in shiny gowns. For Fall and Winter 2009, such gowns are either sequin, satin or metallic. And, the popular style for this Fall include one-shoulder gowns. But, slip tops, bodice tops and halter-style top are still popular in these gown designs. If women opt not to were a shiny gown, they might choose to wear a colored gown with shiny jewelry, strappy or cage shoes, and clutch in diamonds, pearls, gold and/or silver. Added accessories to these gowns include long or short pleather gloves. Fake fur coats, cropped sweaters, or capes are worn as a cover-up. The key here is simplicity as well as not to overdo it with the glitter and glam. Sparkle and shine but still look elegant and chic.

 Semi-wear dresses are similar to formalwear, but shorter. These dresses tend to be knee-length, and usually worn with hosiery. For Fall 2009, hosiery with a delicate design is popular, most likely in the color black. Chic hats are added to semi-wear dresses, along with gloves, a shiny small purse or clutch, shoes, and jewelry. The key here is in the detail of what you choose to wear. Be selective in the type of jewelry, shoes, purse, hosiery, hat, and gloves you wear, and make sure they all look coordinated worn together as a complete outfit.

 A cocktail dress is less dressy than a semi-formal dress, but still looks elegant and contemporary. Such a dress tends to be either a mini-dress, miniskirt with a nice blouse, knee-length dress, or knee-length skirt with a nice blouse. Nice pants can also be worn at cocktail parties. The most popular pants worn for this season include a bodice jumpsuit with wide legs. This jumpsuit is worn with a wide belt, bangles, chain necklaces and beaded necklaces. Accessories that are added to a cocktail outfit can be fun and flirty. Consider wearing a sequin beret, a wool beret with a pretty pin, or just a chic hat. Jewelry worn with a cocktail outfit doesn’t have to be shiny. The emphasis here is on fun, modern and flirty. Fishnet stockings or colorful tights is worn with a cocktail dress or skirt. Shoes can also be more creative, trendy and fun. Low-heel shoes or boots is worn with a cocktail outfit. From ankle boots to thigh-high boots, boots worn with a cocktail outfit look modern and less dressy, but still nice.

  Then, there is the special occasion where you just want to celebrate with close family and friends in a casual environment. You are more likely to choose an outfit in silk, linen, sheer, or fine fabric. Flat shoes or boots are usually worn with the outfit, and a simple and casual purse is carried. This outfit has the look of no fuss or muss. But, rather, it is a simple, clean and neat look. A nice hat, gloves, and belt can be worn with this outfit, but it is not necessary. Jewelry is also worn, but kept more simple and trendy.  Denim jacket, biker jacket, aviator jacket, bomber jacket, pea coats or trench coat can be worn with this casual look. Beret, fedora or newsboy cap can be added to complete an outfit. Just remember that this look tends to be relaxed.

  Therefore, next time you fret about what to wear for a party, event or special occasion, just take a deep breath, relax and read this article to help you decide. All you need to do is dress appropriate for the particular event  or environment. Don’t overdress or under-dress, or you will likely look out of place, either way.  Analyze your party and your wardrobe, and pick the right clothes and accessories that best fit the social occasion.