Finding the ideal party dress can be quite a difficult task, especially if you are pressed for time and need your dress within the next week or so. Whether you are buying for an important formal event or just for a night out with the girls, getting the best dress for you ought to be high up on your list of things to do. Buying a party dress isnt as simple as it might seem though, because you need to ensure it fits properly, complements your skin tone and body shape, and that it doesnt highlight any problem areas that you may feel you have.

The first thing to think about when buying a party dress is what colour you would like to go for. Once you have figured this step out you will at least have narrowed down the choices slightly, so you wont have so many different dresses to look at. If you have darker skin you should opt for lighter dress colours, as a black or brown dress wont make you stand out as much. Opt for yellows, greens and pinks or, essentially, anything that will make sure all eyes are on you.

Fairer skin types should avoid white and pale colours at all costs and should instead go for brighter ones. Neutral colours will help to make you look elegant. Those that have olive or medium skin tones will want to wear neutral colours to juxtapose against their skin, or blues and reds for a more striking appearance.

Next is the issue of what style of dress will suit your body shape. If you have a large bust you should go for a dress with a square neck and wider straps, so as to offer more support. Those with a smaller bust look amazing in spaghetti strap dresses, although high necklines also work perfectly. If you feel a little self-conscious about your middle you should never wear a dress made from satin or silk, as these materials are notorious for being less than flattering. A skater dress or empire waistline dress will help to hide anything you dont feel confident about around your middle.

Pear shaped ladies with wide hips should stick to dresses in one colour or, if you are determined to wear prints, only wear them on your top half so as to detract attention from your hips. Empire waistline dresses and straight cut dresses work wonders.

If you dont think youve got much of a waistline, try wearing a skater dress or a flared skirt with net petticoats, as this will provide the illusion of voluptuous curves.