Dresses That Make a Statement

Mary J Blige makes a statement in an all white floor-length gown at the 2011 Fifi awards.

Photo: Jemal Countess/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

A statement dress is the type that grabs attention and draws the eye. Finding the perfect statement dress will allow you to say everything you need to, without uttering a word. Statement dresses often make their statement with color or interesting designs and style. There is a statement dress for every occasion and one for all shapes and sizes.

Color

Many dresses can make a powerful statement based on their color alone. Think back to the iconic pink dress Madonna wore in the music video for "Material Girl". That dress made a bold statement due to its hot pink coloring contrasted against mundane men's suits. Find a dress that is relatively simple but has a vivid color. This keeps the look classic and sophisticated but the color provides the statement. Colors such as red, white and gold are all perfect for making strong and effective statements.

Interesting Style

Selecting a dress with an interesting style is the quickest route into statement-ville. You can have all eyes on you with a dress that accentuates all your right features but also includes some unconventional shapes, too. Popular statement styles are enhanced shoulders which create a strong powerful look in a dress, giving you a definite style edge. Peplum dresses include a layer of material around the hips; this adds shape and movement to a dress but also increases the style factor. Dresses with slits are also effective in making statements; a high slit on a floor length gown is very stylish and appealing and also lengthens the leg. A backless dress is a definite way to make a powerful statement. Backless dresses are always very glamorous and somewhat demure. These styles are guaranteed to create a statement.

Patterned

Patterns have a way of drawing the eye and exciting the senses. A vividly patterned dress will give you that statement look. Brands such as Missoni and Roberto Cavalli are known for their patterned designs that are unforgettable and often remain forever etched in people's memories. Select strong patterns that are memorable and effective to make your statement. Go for larger patterns as opposed to smaller, more subtle ones.

Twisted Classics

Classic dresses with funky modernized twists are a foolproof way to make a fashion statement. Think of lace, for instance. A very classy and sophisticated material, however, if made into a backless mini dress, will make a fantastic statement. For this style, select classic materials or shapes that have been modernized with funky or radical features. Oversized corsages and edgy or sequined styles are all excellent ways to pull in the statement style.

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