Gone are the days when the full-length gown was appropriate only for the sundown soiree. Today a maxi-dress is welcome to lunch and an embellished garment can be pared down for a daytime event. But when the moment calls for a sophisticated evening gown, how does one find the dress to outshine all others?
Watch: How to choose an evening dress with Amanda Wakeley
Amanda Wakeley, fashion designer and founder of the eponymous clothing brand, says; “I think when choosing an evening dress you really need to think about your body shape, the function that you’re going to – [whether it’s] appropriate – and is it comfortable?”
“You should just be in this dress, you should forget it, and enjoy it, and be able to have a great time.”
Wakeley, who launched her company in 1990, is known for her glamorous eveningwear and is no stranger to styling clients for the red carpet and A-list events. The designer has dressed celebrities including Beyoncé, Angelina Jolie, the Duchess of Cambridge and most recently Jennifer Lopez, who attended the 2015 Golden Globes after party in the SS’15 White Top and Asymmetric Skirt.
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“Now more than ever the customer is expecting something really particular, almost one of the kind, says Wakeley. “There is an appetite and an understanding of what goes into creating such beautiful pieces.”
Wakeley designed the Atelier Collection to provide a semi-bespoke offering to her clients, with designs available in a variety of colors and embellishments. Each style is named after the powerful woman or goddess that inspired its creation.
Whether you opt for a bespoke gown or otherwise, Wakeley says it’s important to consider the whole picture, including grooming, hair, makeup, nails, jewelry, shoes, and accessories.
But the most important thing? Feeling your absolute best.
Amanda Wakeley reveals her tips for choosing an evening dress and a look inside her Atelier Collection in the video above.
