It's a Formal Affair

April is officially formal season, my apologies in advance if I missed your formal by a weekend! I know all different clubs, organizations, and Greek chapters are planning their formals so that means it's time to go dress shopping. I'm currently trying to fit three on my calendar (I don't think it'll work out!). Being on campus, there aren't too many great formal dress shopping locations around, so most of us end up shopping online. Dress shopping online can be such a tough thing to do, so today I rounded up fifteen of my favorite dresses for formal season. I tended to shy away from super sexy dresses because when investing in a dress like this, I want to make sure I can wear it again for either a wedding, or other formal event. I know I'll be needing another maxi dress in September so why not kill two birds with one stone, ya know?

The fifteen dresses below are from all different stores. I think Lulu's right now is the best place to get a chiffon formal dress, but Nordstrom, Macy's, J.C. Penny, Tobi, and Forever 21 also have incredible dresses at the moment! I just recently ordered my formal dress from the 15 below, but you'll have to wait and see which one I chose on April 21st. I love a great blush or navy dress for an occasion such as formal. I think they're both two colors that work year round and look great with or without a tan -- navy especially. I wore dress number six last year to my formal and loved the shape, fit, neckline, and length. The price was unbeatable too, which was the cherry on top of an already sweet deal.

Since it's spring though, I love messing around with floral prints too! Once this time of year hits, all I want to do is wear feminine floral dresses so I added a few of my favorites below. The most important thing however, is to be comfortable at formal. Most likely you'll start at a pregame, then catch a bus to the venue, enjoy formal at a country club of private event, catch another bus home, maybe go to an after party, or if you're me you'll end up going to Cook Out so make sure to choose a dress that you're confident and comfortable in at the same time!

PS - I'm so sorry if you've never enjoyed Cook Out before!

I also wanted to make it a point to share a few hacks with you for formal season to be a little more comfortable. First, when shoe shopping, go with a platform or a block heel. They are much easier on your feet, and since you'll be standing all evening long, they're perfect for this occasion! Second, if you find that perfect dress and the slit is a little to high up the leg, take some safety pins and clasp the inner fabric of the dress. Who knows maybe there will be an event where you don't need to safety pin it. All in all, safety pins are your friend! Lastly, sell it with jewelry. Most of the dresses below are fairly simple. After all, it's not prom or your wedding, so these dresses although purchased for formal, are meant to be versatile additions to your wardrobe. Because of this, accessorize properly. Maybe a fun crystal necklace with a v-neck dress or a stunning pair of earrings that are sure to make a statement.

Formal is the one night during your semester where you have a reason to dress up in a floor length gown, so just remember to have fun with it! Don't stress about having a date either. Sometimes going with sorority sisters or taking one of your girlfriends instead is just as fun as bringing a date. Have a good time, feel beautiful, and remember to take lots of pictures!