When it comes to going out dresses, the right color and fabric can make all the difference. Whether you’re heading to a party, a night out with friends, or a romantic dinner, choosing the perfect combination of color and fabric can elevate your outfit and make you feel confident and stylish. From timeless black to bold, vibrant hues, and luxe fabrics that feel as good as they look, here’s a guide to the best colors and fabrics for going out dresses that always look amazing.
1. Classic Black: Timeless Elegance
Black is the ultimate color when it comes to going out dresses. Its versatility and timeless appeal make it a wardrobe staple for almost any occasion. Whether it’s a little black dress (LBD) or a full-length black gown, this color never goes out of style and always looks chic.
Why It Works:
- Black is slimming, making it flattering on every body type.
- It’s easy to accessorize with gold, silver, or bold colors.
- It can be styled up or down, making it suitable for a wide range of events.
Styling Tip:
Pair your black dress with statement jewelry or a bold lip color to add interest to the outfit. Add a metallic clutch or bold heels for an extra pop.
2. Red: Bold and Confident
Red is a color that exudes confidence and power. Whether it’s a fiery crimson, deep burgundy, or a classic cherry red, a red dress will turn heads and make a statement. Red is perfect for occasions when you want to feel bold and unforgettable.
Why It Works:
- Red is an attention-grabbing color that radiates energy and passion.
- It’s universally flattering, especially in deep tones like burgundy or wine.
- Red dresses can be dressed up for formal events or dressed down for a more casual look.
Styling Tip:
Keep accessories minimal with a red dress to let the color shine. Opt for neutral or metallic shoes and a simple clutch to balance the boldness.
3. Metallics: Glamorous and Eye-Catching
Metallic colors like gold, silver, rose gold, and bronze add a glamorous touch to any going out dress. Perfect for events that call for a little extra sparkle, metallics catch the light and create an effortlessly chic vibe. These shades are great for cocktail parties, New Year’s Eve celebrations, and more.
Why It Works:
- Metallic fabrics give off a luxurious, high-fashion feel.
- They reflect light beautifully, adding instant glamour to your look.
- They pair well with neutral accessories, allowing the dress to be the focal point.
Styling Tip:
Opt for a simple, solid-colored metallic dress and keep your accessories subtle—think sleek heels and a delicate clutch—to let the dress stand out.
4. Jewel Tones: Rich and Elegant
Jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, amethyst purple, and ruby red are rich, deep colors that exude elegance and sophistication. These shades are ideal for formal events, evening parties, or dinners where you want to make a luxurious statement.
Why It Works:
- Jewel tones complement a wide range of skin tones, making them flattering for many.
- They create a polished, sophisticated look without being too flashy.
- The richness of these colors makes them perfect for evening occasions.
Styling Tip:
Pair a jewel-tone dress with metallic or neutral accessories, such as silver or gold jewelry and a classic black clutch, to keep the focus on the color.
5. White: Fresh and Chic
White dresses aren’t just for weddings—they’re a stunning choice for going out. A white dress can look effortlessly chic and modern, offering a refreshing alternative to darker tones. Perfect for summer nights or a romantic date, a white dress can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion.
Why It Works:
- White is a classic, clean color that gives off a fresh, minimalistic vibe.
- It’s perfect for highlighting bronzed skin in the warmer months.
- White dresses are versatile and can be styled for both casual and formal events.
Styling Tip:
Add a bold-colored accessory, like a vibrant handbag or a colorful pair of heels, to make the white dress pop. Avoid over-accessorizing to maintain the sleek, fresh feel.
6. Pastels: Soft and Feminine
Pastel colors like blush pink, lavender, mint green, and baby blue are soft, romantic choices that work beautifully for spring or daytime outings. These hues give off a delicate, feminine vibe and are perfect for a more understated, elegant look.
Why It Works:
- Pastels have a soothing, calming effect, creating a sweet and romantic look.
- They work well for daytime events, brunches, or garden parties.
- Soft pastel hues flatter a variety of skin tones and provide a subtle, yet chic alternative to more vibrant colors.
Styling Tip:
Pair pastel dresses with silver or nude accessories to maintain a light, airy feel. Choose soft makeup tones, like a nude lip and a natural glow, to complement the soft palette.
7. Black and White: Bold Contrast
The classic black-and-white combination is always in style. A black-and-white dress is a sophisticated and timeless choice for any occasion. The stark contrast of these colors creates a bold statement, and the pairing is perfect for both casual and formal events.
Why It Works:
- Black and white never go out of style and is always appropriate for almost any occasion.
- The contrast makes for a striking, attention-grabbing look.
- It’s easy to accessorize, whether you go for gold, silver, or vibrant colors.
Styling Tip:
Keep your accessories minimal with a black-and-white dress, or add a pop of color, like red heels or a bright handbag, to make the outfit stand out.
8. Floral Prints: Playful and Feminine
Floral print dresses are perfect for going out during the warmer months. Whether it’s a subtle floral design or a bold, oversized print, florals add a playful, feminine touch to any evening outfit. These dresses are perfect for garden parties, outdoor events, or a romantic evening out.
Why It Works:
- Floral prints are fun and add a bit of personality to your outfit.
- They evoke a feminine and whimsical vibe that’s perfect for spring and summer events.
- Floral patterns can be paired with both casual and dressy accessories, depending on the occasion.
Styling Tip:
Keep your accessories simple when wearing a floral dress—think delicate jewelry and neutral-colored shoes—to let the print take center stage.
9. Velvet: Luxurious and Elegant
Velvet is a rich, opulent fabric that adds depth and sophistication to any dress. Whether in jewel tones or darker shades, velvet going out dresses are perfect for fall and winter events. The fabric’s texture is plush and tactile, making it feel luxurious while providing warmth during cooler months.
Why It Works:
- Velvet gives off an elegant, high-end feel perfect for evening wear.
- It’s a fabric that adds instant texture and interest to your outfit.
- Velvet is often associated with winter and fall, making it perfect for formal events during these seasons.
Styling Tip:
Pair a velvet dress with metallic accessories or a sleek black clutch for an elegant evening look. Keep your shoes simple to avoid overloading the outfit with texture.
Conclusion
Choosing the right color and fabric for your going out dress is key to ensuring that you look stylish and feel confident. Whether you opt for the timeless elegance of black, the boldness of red, or the luxurious feel of velvet, the right combination will make you stand out for all the right reasons. Play around with different colors and fabrics to find the perfect match for your style and the occasion, and you’ll always have a show-stopping look ready to go.
