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Deciding what to wear to a party depends entirely upon the type of party you are going to. A dress is always a great option, but you want to make sure that you are not going to be too overdressed -- or underdressed -- in your pink sparkly ballerina tulle gown. Plan ahead of time to wear the appropriate level of dressiness for the occasion.
Daytime/Afternoon Party Attire
For a party that takes place during the day, such as a bridal shower, baby shower, tea party or barbecue, a casual sundress is always appropriate. While you can wear a basic black structured dress safely, Marie Claire says a daytime party is a great opportunity to rock a bold print or light color. At the same, daytime parties may call for more sophisticated attire. Put your backless, bright red, "Jersey Shore" dress away, and opt for a knee-length, A-line structured dress in a chic spring floral print.
Work Party Attire
If you are going to a party after work, or if it is actually a work party, you'll want to wear a business-casual dress. Opt for a structured shift dress or a fitted sheath dress in an earthy tone or black. Wear the dress, with a fitted black blazer over it, to be work appropriate during the day; ditch the jacket later for a sexier look that you can still wear around your peers. Glamour magazine says that a more sophisticated dress can easily translate to a party dress by adding a statement necklace and clutch.
Cocktail Party Attire
Cocktail parties come in many different sizes and shapes, so it is harder to know what type of dress is appropriate. While it is always better to be a little overdressed, choosing a mid-length or shorter dress over a long dress is a better option for a cocktail party. A LBD (little black dress) or a LWD (little white dress) during the summer are always sensible options, but if you are looking to stand out, try a statement ballerina-chic dress with a tulle skirt in either a blush pink or cream. You'll be glamorous without appearing overdressed.
Birthday Party Attire
According to Glamour, you will never feel out of place at a party in a satin cocktail dress. A short-sleeved version with a cinched waist and full skirt is a modern and comfortable option for mingling at a party -- not to mention that it leaves a little room for some cake. The look -- chic and classy without standing out too much -- is especially appropriate for a birthday party, where you don't want to outshine the birthday girl.
