Tone down a formal dress?

[shengmei]

I have some formal dresses I brought from Salvation Army several years ago. They were in excellent condition. I was very surprised they still had tags attached on them when I brought them.

Now I don't seem to have any occasions to wear them, but I would at least get a chance to wear them before I outgrow them (they are size eight ). I was wondering if there is a way to tone down the dresses so I can wear them to semiformal parties.

Any ideas?

It is so much cheaper to get formal dresses than to get informal ones. A formal dress I can get for $2 at Salvation Army, but I have never seen a used informal dress that I like.

[Kirbycruiser]

The only thing I can think of is to have them shortened. Usually a formal dress is much longer than a cocktail dress. But a cocktail dress can be very detailed and fancy, so if you hemmed them up to uh maybe knee length that should work. Interesting topic, I can't wait to hear what others might suggest.

[cschin4]

Yes, I was thinking the same. Hemming them up may make them more like a cocktail dress. But, where do you intend to wear them? Maybe you can just wear them as is.

[kealina]

that's a great deal for formal dresses... hemming sounds like a great idea... also, try not to pair them with fancy shoes/purse, etc.. and how you do your hair and makeup also helps...

[PrincessPerky]

If some of the 'formal' is the cut of the sleeves, try removing them, or redoing them or something.

[jodi]

maybe add a jacket or blazer, if the style of the dress will allow it? It might cover up some details or bare shoulders that make the dress more formal. A casual belt could possibly achieve a similar effect. It's hard to say without seeing the dress.

[MARIA6]

That's a gorgeous dress!
Personally, i don't think it is too formal. If you want to tone it down a little bit, you can add a cardigan.

[jIM_Ohio]

My wife will alter her bridesmaid dresses into cocktail dresses. Usually costs her about $20-$40 to have the dress altered.

[MARIA6]

That's a gorgeous dress!
Personally, i don't think it is too formal. If you want to tone it down a little bit, you can add a cardigan. White works best and it should be small and you can maybe even go with a sheer one! Wear it flats instead of heels and keep the jewlery simple, not too sparkly or big since you already have the pin.