Your Illawarra formal guide
After all the hard work and study, there’s no better way to celebrate the end of exams and, for Year 12 students the end of school, than with a formal where you and your classmates get to dress up and have a night of fun.
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On such a special night, everyone wants to look and feel their best, so finding the perfect outfit, accessories and hairstyle is so important.
The dress
Save time shopping by having a look through old photos and decide on a colour and style that suits you.
Take your mum or best friend with you when trying on gowns so you can get an honest opinion. Map out the shops that sell formal attire and target those shops to save you time. Once you have picked the perfect dress you can then buy shoes and accessories to match.
Hair & make-up
Book a hairdresser and make-up artist to complete your formal look. Have a look through photos of the hairdressers’ past work or search the Internet or Pinterest to find a style that you like. You may also like to consider getting a spray tan and a manicure / pedicure.
The suit
For the guys there is always the decision whether to hire or to buy a suit. Black or charcoal are usually the most common colours worn, which is accessorised with a tie or bowtie that matches the colour of their partner’s dress.
However, these days the men are becoming just as fashion conscious as the girls and may choose something a little more stylish or perhaps even a little outrageous. Accessories such as suspenders, a top hat and /or cane can give a little edge.
Whatever you choose, it is important to discuss it with your partner to make sure your outfi ts don’t create a clash of colours or styles.
Once you have your outfi t sorted, you can relax and count down to the big night.