There are certain formal dresses that should be worn at formal situations. When it comes to formal wear it is not a one size fits all kind of idea. The events for specific formal wear have been grouped into similar categories and therefore it means that similar formal wear can be worn to all three. This still does not mean that the same dress for instance should be worn to all three.

1. Daytime Wedding/Graduation/Funeral - the reason why these three things are grouped together because it said that the same black dress will work for all three events. A dress does not have to be a ball gown to be considered a formal dress. It all depends on how you either dress it up or dress it down. Every fashion expert in the world will say that every woman needs a black dress in her closet.

2. Party/Date - A party and a date would require a formal cocktail dress rather than a gown. This is considered a semi-formal occasion and a short dress in any colour would be suitable.

3. Gala/Ball - this type of event is the true form of a formal event and it is mandatory that you were some form of a formal gown. The gown does not have to be big and puffy but instead you should look for something simple and elegant. A dress with an A-line skirt or a sheath dress would be a great idea. You can always add more to the look of the dress depending on the accessories that you choose to use.

Formal gowns and dresses for formal occasions can be purchased at any dress shop. They are harder to find though in a department store. While the prices might be slightly higher by looking in a dress store the task of finding the perfect dress will be that much easier. Wedding stores or bridal stores also have great formal gowns for sale. People often think because it has been called a bridesmaid's dress that they can't wear it to a non-wedding event. This couldn't be further from the truth. In actual fact, bridesmaid's dresses are really formal gowns that have been selected as part of a wedding party. There are often great sales on these dresses and you might get one at a great price.

Formal wear can also be purchased online. There are a number of websites that are dedicated to selling formal type dresses for a reduced price. These sites include things like prom dresses, bridesmaids' dresses and formal evening gowns. A representative from these websites will stay in contact with you until you find the dress that you are looking for. It is a good idea to know exactly what you want before trying to shop online, not knowing can make the task that must harder and more frustrating.

Dresses that are considered formal come in a variety of sizes and styles. Some are really simple and elegant while others are big and still elegant. It all depends on your shape and what would look good on you. Buying online has the disadvantage that you cannot try the dress on beforehand.