There are a lot of things to consider when planning a Quinceanera, but perhaps nothing is as important as finding the perfect Quinceanera dress for your big day. After helping young ladies and their families host hundreds of Quinceanera celebrations, the event coordinators at Vatican Banquet Hall have put together a list of tips to reference when shopping for a gown!
Tip#1: Establish Your Budget
Before you set one foot in a dress shop, be sure to talk with whomever is buying your Quinceanera dress – parents, grandparents, or well-wishing relatives – about how much they are willing to spend on your gown. Knowing the dress budget will save time by directing you to stores that cater to your specific price range. And remember: just because a dress is inexpensive doesn’t mean it isn’t beautiful!
Tip #2: Know Your Body Type (And What Dress Fits It Best)
A big part of looking beautiful is feeling comfortable in your Quince dress, and you won’t be able to do either if your dress doesn’t fit correctly. Before you begin shopping, honestly assess your body type and consider what types of gowns look best on different shapes. As a general rule, however, we’ve found that puffy tulle dresses accentuate slim physiques, while A-line and Imperial cut gowns helps narrow a curvier silhouette. And remember: whatever dress you decide on needs to pass the “Grandma Test”.
Tip#3: Choose a Color and Type of Fabric
Years ago, it was customary for a girl’s Quinceanera dresses to be white or a light pastel color and decorated with intricate beading or sequins; today, more and more young women are choosing to blend modern and traditional styles, incorporating sleeker, newer materials and brighter colors into the dress’s design. Regardless of what type of gown you choose, be sure the color, fabric, and cut perfectly matches your personality!
Tip #4: Try On as Many Dresses as Possible
While trying on dress after dress can be exhausting (especially after the 20th or 30th one!), trying on multiple gowns will give you an idea of which ones fit best, what fabric you like, and what brands are most flattering. To be sure you have enough time to find the perfect Quinceanera dress, begin looking no less than nine months before your big party, and visit no less than three different dress shops. And most importantly, NEVER buy a Quinceanera dress online without trying it on first!
Tip#5: Ask Lots of Questions
Dressmakers or women that work in dress shops are likely to have a lot of experience helping other young women find a dress for their big party, so don’t be afraid to use their knowledge as a resource. Be sure to ask about current trends, what color would be most flattering with your skin type, and if the gown can be altered (in case you experience any changes in size before the celebration. And remember to answer the most important question before you buy: “Do I love it?”