I've Helped 200+ Students Find Their Perfect Formal Dress - Here's My Foolproof Guide

The first and most important step to finding your perfect formal dress is making sure that you shop early, you would be surprised how quickly your dream dress may be booked out. By booking early you will avoid so many dresses and allow time for you to find your perfect dress. As I have been styling for 2 years I have had the unfortunate job of telling so many girls that their dress is unavailable for their formal date so, if I can get one thing across to you..please book early! If your formal is in November don’t think you’re silly for booking in at the beginning of the year. Luckily here at Dress for a Night, you can book your dress up to 12 months in advance and we have a very flexible exchange/cancellation policy.

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Some essential tips for formal first-timers:

• Know your colours: it is essential to learn what colours and tones will enhance your complexion, have a shop around and learn whether you suit cool pastels or other jewel tones.

• Find your Fit: Finding your perfect fit for a dress is another key aspect to ensuring you are enhancing your forma shopping experience. Always remember that sizing between brands can vary, make sure you are trying on different sizes to find a dress that flatters your body shape.

• Accessorise Thoughtfully: Whether you are wearing a classic black dress or a full-length formal gown accessories can make your dress stand out and personalise it to suit your style. If you are accessorising a more simple, minimalist or black dress think about pairing these with a colourful bag and shoes to elevate the outfit. Jewellery is essential, if you are wearing a strapless dress think about a statement necklace or a halter/high-neck dress you may want to pair with a statement pair of earrings.

Pro tip: if this is your first formal or you are not a regular heel wearer, make sure to find some comfortable heels, try them in-store, wear them around the house and try to break them in. Yes, you may think you look silly but trust me this works! Try your heels on with a pair of socks on, walk around the house and get used to wearing heels, how to walk and most importantly avoid those nasty blisters!

As a stylist, I am always researching and finding what the new trends are for formals during different seasons, and throughout the years I can confidently say that the current formal trends are my absolute favourite! Some key trends I have found recently are:

Backless Dresses: I am utterly obsessed, I can’t get enough of the backless dress trend. It adds such a glamorous beautiful touch to simple dresses. This is your sign, have your backless dress moment!

2025 Colours: TikTok has taken over the formal dress world and from this, I can confidently tell you that the most popular colours of 2025 are Red, Yellow and Pink. Don't be afraid to try on these colours, they are stunning. Although these are the current trends, never doubt your style or what colours suit you best, and never be afraid of a classic black dress.

Whether you are looking for backless, pops of colour or a dress that says you, here at dress for a night you are open to endless possibilities. I have curated a list of dresses that scream School formal 2025,

Are you ready for your backless dress era? You have come to the right place, the Arcina Ori Monique Dress is the perfect mix of sophistication and elegance with a backless strappy detail you are sure to turn some heads at your next school formal. This style is available in navy, yellow and rust.

This Pineapple Yellow colour is the definition of divine! The Isabel Dress has a cutout detail across the bodice that is so flattering to the waist, not only that but it’s not gown length meaning it won’t brush against the floor the whole night. No tripping over your dress with this one!

My favourite colour of the season is red. This dress is so beautiful. If you are ready to make a statement, the Macie Gown is your perfect choice. With a corset bodice and voluminous skirt you’ll be the belle of your ball at your school formal! Let the dress speak for itself, pair it with a statement pair of earrings and a simple bag. This style is available in red and black.

Are you ready for your main character moment at your school formal this year? You have come to the right place, Dress for a Night allows you to find your perfect dress for less! Buying a dress is a big commitment, therefore renting is your perfect solution. Whether you are shopping in-store or online, you’ll find an incredible selection of school formal dresses and cocktail dresses, from classic black gowns to trendy styles in all sizes and colours.

Have a look for yourself, browse our collection today and find your formal dress that will make your school formal unforgettable. I and the rest of the Dress for a Night team can’t wait to see you in store!