There’s no better time to embrace the dazzling allure of a sequin dress! Whether you’re attending a glamorous New Year’s Eve party or a festive work event, mastering the art of styling these sparkly showstoppers can transform you into the belle of any ball.
The key to pulling off sequins is understanding that they’re not just for special occasions anymore – with the right styling, you can make sequins work for various events and even some casual settings.
How to style a sequin dress
1. Choose the Right Silhouette for Your Style
When buying a sequin dress, think about your comfort level and personal style first. The beauty of sequin dresses lies in their versatility – from body-hugging mermaid styles to relaxed shift dresses.
For a more conservative approach, try a long-sleeved mini dress that balances coverage with sparkle.
If you’re feeling bold, a plunging neckline or backless design can create show-stopping drama. Consider your body type too. A-line sequin dresses flatter most figures, while column dresses work beautifully for taller frames.
Empire waists can create lovely proportion for shorter torsos, and wrap styles in sequins can define your waist beautifully.
2. Keep accessories subtle, not overpowering
Your dress is already making a statement, so keep your accessories minimal and sophisticated. A pair of classic stilettos in metallic or black can elongate your legs while complementing the sparkle.
For jewelry, opt for delicate pieces that won’t compete with your dress – perhaps a pair of simple diamond studs or a thin bracelet.
When it comes to bags, size matters – a small clutch in a solid color provides the perfect finishing touch without overwhelming your look.
If you’re wearing a long sequin gown, a sleek envelope clutch that won’t interfere with the dress’s line is ideal. For shorter styles, you might opt for a structured mini bag that adds a modern touch.
3. Select your color with careful thought
When styling a sequin dress, it’s important to pay attention to color. If your dress is in a bold shade like red or emerald green, stick with neutral accessories in black, nude, or metallic shades to keep the focus on the dress.
If you’re wearing a neutral sequin dress in silver, gold, or champagne, you have more freedom to play with colors and textures. You can add pops of color with statement shoes or incorporate different fabrics like velvet or satin for contrast.
4. Keep the occasion in mind always
Context is everything when styling a sequin dress. A full-length gown might be perfect for a black-tie wedding, while a short sequin dress could be ideal for a cocktail party. You want to shine bright without overshadowing the occasion!
For daytime events, sequins in softer colors or smaller paillettes that create a more subtle sparkle.
Evening events allow for bolder, larger sequins and more dramatic designs. If you’re wearing sequins to a work-related event, opt for darker colors like navy or black sequins, which feel more professional while still maintaining that festive touch.
5. Don’t let chilly weather dampen your sparkle!
A well-chosen blazer or elegant wrap can add warmth without sacrificing style. A black tailored blazer over a sequin dress creates a sophisticated contrast, while a faux fur stole adds old-Hollywood glamour.
A smooth, matte fabric can provide beautiful contrast against the sparkle of sequins. And for an unexpected twist, try a leather jacket over a sequin mini dress for an edgy-meets-glamorous vibe.
Cashmere wraps in complementary colors can provide warmth while maintaining elegance, and velvet blazers add a luxurious touch that pairs beautifully with sequins.
6. Invest in quality shapewear
Sequin dresses can be unforgiving, so invest in quality shapewear that provides smooth lines without visible seams.
Choose nude undergarments that won’t show through, and consider the dress’s neckline when selecting a bra.
For backless sequin designs, investigate adhesive bras or low-back options that provide support while remaining invisible.
Sequins can sometimes catch on hosiery, so opt for high-quality tights or stockings if needed. Wear seamless thongs, stick-on bras, or body suits that won’t create visible lines or bulges under the form-fitting fabric.
7. Get your hair and makeup just right
If your dress is bold and sparkly, then softer, more natural makeup with perhaps one dramatic element like a red lip or smoky eye works well.
For hair, elegant waves or a sleek updo can complement your dress without competing for attention.
Think about the neckline of your dress when choosing a hairstyle – high necklines often pair beautifully with updos, while plunging necklines can work wonderfully with loose waves.
Don’t forget about your nail color – neutral, metallic, or dark polishes tend to work best with sequins. For a modern touch, try a matte top coat on your nails to create an interesting contrast with your sparkly dress.
8. Make sure your dress fits comfortably
A well-fitting sequin dress is essential for comfort and confidence. Sequins add bulk to fabric, so you might need to size up.
Pay attention to how the dress moves when you walk and sit – you want to feel comfortable throughout your event. Having your sequin dress professionally altered is worth the investment to ensure perfect fit.
Watch for areas where sequins might rub against your skin, particularly under the arms or at the neckline. Some strategic fashion tape can help keep everything in place and prevent any wardrobe malfunctions.
Sequin dresses often have some weight to them, so ensure the straps or structure of the dress can support this weight comfortably.
