Party Dresses for Women

Party dresses have been around for hundreds of years. But even after all that time, there is no standard, accepted definition of what they are. Party attire can be worn to both casual and formal affairs. The formality of the attire often depends on the time and location where the event is held.

In the beginning, party dresses were strictly formal gowns. They were worn by women of status or privilege to exclusive events. In fact, one of the first party dresses was the mantua, which was a loose-fitting gown that was worn with a petticoat. It became popular with the beau monde in 18th-century France, where it was the only party dress women wore at Court, i.e., in the presence of a monarch.

Party dresses grew ever more expensive and elaborate as time passed. Evening and ball gowns were designed for women of means. Dressmakers used heavy, luxurious fabrics that only the rich could afford. It was not until the 20th century that designers started making dresses for average women.

As upper class women began to show a bit more skin with plunging necklines and higher hemlines, party dresses fell in price. Because the designs were less elaborate and they required less fabric, these dresses finally became affordable. Simple strapless and sleeves gowns appealed to women of limited means who wanted to look elegant and have fun.Click here to see more.