Turning Fifteen with Flair: 5 Expert Tips to Select the Perfect Quinceañera Gown!

Quniceanera has historically been celebrated in communities of Latin America on a girl’s fifteenth birthday, and signifies the transition from childhood to womanhood. The wiki on Quinceanera mentions that this tradition that can be traced back to ancient Aztec culture, still continues to this day under various names like “Festa de debutantes” in Brazil and “Fete des quinze ans” in the French Caribbean.

On this day, the birthday girl is the center of attention, and deserves a dress that allows her to steal the limelight. If your Quinceanera celebration is soon to be celebrated, here are some tips to help you find the right dress for your big day.

Recognize your body type to find the right silhouette

You may have fallen in love with a certain dress, but remember that it needn’t look as great on you as it does on the model. This is because the beauty of a dress is enhanced when it is draped on a figure it is designed for. So, your first step in preparing for your gown shopping is to identify your body type and what features you would like to emphasize or hide. If you are heavier on the top and have broad shoulders, you may prefer ball gowns to balance out your figure. These dresses also suit girls who are straight with very few curves. For girls with a small chest and wide hips, empire silhouettes or dresses with asymmetrical pleats would look good. If you have an hourglass figure, you can carry off almost any dress, including fit and flare gowns.

Fix your budget before you go shopping

Quinceanera gowns are available in various price ranges. Know your maximum budget, so you do not look at gowns that are out of your reach. When planning your shopping budget, also put aside an amount for alterations and accessories. Some girls choose more than one gown, and change after the reception. A more budget friendly option is to choose a dress with a removable overlay skirt, so you can sport a traditional look for the ceremony and easily transition to the stylish shorter hemline for the reception by removing the outer layer.

Pick your colors carefully

There are two things to remember when picking your dress color; it should match your complexion and it should go well with the colors at your party. If your party has a specific color theme, make sure that the color of your gown blends well with the theme. While some colors will bring out your best, others can leave you looking pale, fat or sick. If you like a particular design, but the color isn’t nice, check whether the gown is available in other colors and make your pick from them.

Make sure it is comfortable

Quinceanera gowns involve layers of fabric, and can quickly weigh you down. When choosing your dress, look for those that don’t feel too tight or stifle your movements. Walk around, sit and move in it to make sure it is one that you will be comfortable in, prior to purchasing it.

Get it altered to your measurements

If your dress doesn’t fit your like a glove, you will not look or feel good in it. After you select, get a professional seamstress to alter the gown to your exact measurements. This will make all the difference between looking good and great. So, don’t skip this step.

At Best for Bride, we have an interesting variety of Quinceanera dresses, perfect for your big celebration. Check it out today and make your pick.