black purple dress Strapless High Slit Gown with Satin Drape Sweetheart purple ball gown with a voluminous skirt and striking black floral appliques Clarisse 800227 Black/Iridescent Purple Prom

Jada Pinkett Smith Also in 1990, Jada Pinkett Smith debuted this shimmery green skirt and top set

With the help of small design secrets, voluminous hips can be concealed (or, on the contrary, made fuller)

in its purest form, its perfect for spooky soirees, but with a touch of velvet or some deft layering, it can work for so many other occasions, including dare I say it already the festive season and all of its many cocktail parties and black tie events and low-key (and high-key) dinners

The eyelash lace detailing along the back of this stunning gown lends a lingerie-inspired feel to the otherwise simple design

The goal is to aim for the highest level of formality you can comfortably achieve