A Guide on What to Wear to a Gala Affair As a Curvy Woman

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You have a gala invitation in hand. Your first thought might be, " What to wear to a Gala?". Your next step would be to run towards your closet and search for the right outfit to wear. Well, if you don’t find anything there, worry not. We asked our stylists to scroll through celeb looks and put together some fresh ideas to help you slay your big night.

Galas are not just about picking out expensive, flowy, fancy outfits. It's an opportunity where you can shine, express your unique personality, and celebrate the evening by feeling empowered and elegant. The best gala outfit should be stunningly sophisticated, with the right mix of grace, individuality, and ease, without compromising comfort.

Dressing for gala events can be both exciting and frightening. Ashley Stewart can be your one-stop solution. That’s where Ashley Stewart comes in. We offer a thoughtfully designed collection that embraces your curves and lets you show up fully as yourself—finding a gala look that feels like you? Totally doable.

Without much ado, let’s get started. 

The Origins of the Galas

Galas were originally events held in royal courts, and they carry a strong sense of historical significance. These gatherings included feasts, entertainment, and formal dress codes that reflected the sophistication and social status of the guests. Unlike other parties, galas maintained a form of formality and grandeur, requiring guests to pull out their best outfits to look beautiful and elegant. Knowing the origins of a gala adds a little extra magic to the experience of getting ready for one.

What to Wear to a Gala: Breaking Down the Dress Codes

The initial step before picking what to wear to a gala is to understand the different types of dress code, from black tie, white tie, semi-formal attire, to cocktail attire. No matter the theme, Ashley Stewart brings you a standout collection of gala looks designed for all body types. Because style has no size limit, and your outfit should celebrate exactly who you are.

White Tie Gala Outfits for Women

The most formal attire code is known as white tie, which is typically reserved for exceptional events like state dinners, royal gatherings, or ultra-posh galas. If you’ve been invited to something this grand, it’s time to bring out your most elegant pieces. Women usually wear full-length gowns that gracefully sweep the floor, often crafted from luxe fabrics like satin, silk, or velvet.

At Ashley Stewart, we understand that shopping for a white tie dress isn’t always easy. That’s why our formalwear is thoughtfully designed to honor your curves and confidence. Our full-length gowns come in rich shades like black, navy, and emerald green—timeless hues perfect for a formal night out.

A bold accessory—think a statement necklace, sparkling drop earrings, or a detailed clutch—can elevate your entire look. And don’t forget the shoes! Step into heels that match or shine in a metallic finish to tie it all together.

Black Tie Gala Outfits for Women

Black tie attire calls for elevated elegance—a step down from white tie, but still polished and refined. Ashley Stewart offers a range of gorgeous black tie-ready pieces, made to celebrate your shape and your style. Think sweeping gowns in rich jewel tones, structured midis in deep shades, and details that add just the right touch of drama.

Want to go shorter? A midi dress in a tailored design can be just as striking. Finish the look with a standout accessory—maybe bold earrings or a statement clutch—and a pair of sleek heels to pull it all together.

Semi-Formal Gala Outfit for Women

A semi-formal gala maintains a high level of sophistication in a person's attire while providing a more relaxed look than a black tie or white tie event. It’s all about looking polished and pulled together—without going full black tie. The key is striking that sweet spot between elegance and ease.

Midi dresses or cup dresses are perfect for this type of event. Midi lengths usually fall between mid-calf and just above the ankle. They come in many styles—from simple and classic to bold and creative—so you can express your style while meeting the dress code.

Dressing Tips for Different Gala Events

Dressing Code Unraveled

Most gala events have specific dress codes, but in case of any doubt, it’s always advisable to go for a black tie as the option that is less risky. Ladies should wear long gowns while men are expected to put on black tuxedos. Use silk, chiffon, and velvet materials that give such occasions the necessary elegance. It’s good to remember that it’s better to be overdressed than underdressed.

The Color Dilemma

Although bright colors have their own space, they are usually avoided for galas. One can choose from neutral or dark tones that are less flashy. Black, navy, silver, and gold are all eternally fashionable colors that create a sophisticated look. If you want to be more daring, jewel tones such as sapphire blue or emerald green may give your outfit an edge of glitz and glamor.

Accessories that Add Sparkle

Once you have selected your outfit, the next step is to pick out suitable accessories. Accessories are as essential as the dress itself and can either enhance or detract from your overall appearance. Going to a gala involves more than just putting on a suitable garment; it entails complementing it with carefully chosen jewels,  bags, and shoes.

The Power of a Statement Piece

When dressing for a gala, it’s essential to accessorize with purpose. One carefully chosen statement piece – a bold necklace, a pair of statement earrings, or glittering bracelets – can change an ordinary gown into something special. Ashley Stewart collection includes accessories that are striking and greatly enhance your formal dresses. Our collection includes crossbody bags, hats, belts, necklaces & pendants, statement rings, and many more, which can give you an elegant and gorgeous look.

But keep in mind the golden rule of wearing your accessories, that is, less is more. You wouldn’t want your dress to be overwhelmed by your jewelry; therefore, choose no more than two key items to set off your look.

The Perfect Clutch

Your choice of handbag is another essential part of your gala ensemble. Small and stylish clutches are suitable for formal affairs such as galas because they provide limited space for essentials while remaining chic. Ashley Stewart offers a wide selection of bags that lend the perfect finishing touch to any gala outfit for women.

To create a strong effect, opt for a metallic or dark colored purse that matches or complements your dress. It is a basic accessory that can help make your dress stand out even more and add extra glamour.

Sophisticated Footwear

Although stilettos may appear gorgeous, one must consider comfort as the top priority, as you have to be on your feet for most of the evening. Choose high heels with neutral colors or fashionable flat shoes that ensure sophistication and support.

Elevated Textures for Your Look

Add dimension and sophistication to your outfit with texture. Velvet, lace, and tulle are some of the materials with which you can make your outfit visually interesting and sophisticated. Ashley Stewart has a wide range of dresses in textured materials; they have lace appliqué gowns as well as sequin-embellished ones, which will help to give life to your gala.

Hair and makeup

Like all formal occasions, make sure your hairdo is elegant and your make-up complements the particular formality of the occasion. If you are not capable of doing your own hair and make-up, get a trained professional to help you out.


Think about your body type while picking your dresses. Don't hesitate to try out unique styles. Moreover, include some touches that reflect your style in your attire

The Perfect Gata attire for Everybody

Hour-glass Shape

If you have an hourglass figure, try choosing dresses that can highlight your natural curves in all the right places. Choose a visual flow from top to bottom so that each part of your body can shine equally. Look for gowns and dresses that have V-necklines and fitted tops that can accentuate your waist and create flattering silhouettes.

The bodycon dress from Ashley Stewart is ideal for an hourglass figure, as it is designed to hug your body and accentuate all your curves. For a black tie gala or formal event, for instance, a bold bodycon dress displayed in a dark hue like black, navy, or jewel colors would be recommended.

In our collection, you can find wrap dresses, which feature a V-neckline and a cinched waist, designed to show off your curves and enhance the feminine silhouette. To elevate your formal attire, opt for a wrap dress crafted from luxurious fabric. 

When it comes to wearing dresses, black gowns or long dresses are best because they fit all body types, especially for black tie dress code occasions. This can be paired up with jewelry pieces such as a sparkling necklace and diamond earrings, etc., in order to accessorize your outfit.

Pear Shape

For individuals with a pear-shaped body (one that tends to have hips wider than the bust), the dress should be selected carefully. The dress should balance your appearance by highlighting your upper body and minimizing your hips. Therefore, look for those styles with fuller skirts and strapless or embellished bodices. A fitted bodice with a flared skirt, like in A-line or ball gowns, is ideal because it draws attention to the upper body and gently glides over the hips and thighs.


To further accentuate this effect, choose dresses that have ruffles or stylish ornaments on the neckline or shoulder to help lift the gaze higher. You could also wear off-shoulder dresses, or ones that only reach the top of the breasts and highlight the shoulders and collarbone. In addition, opting for ethnic wear with darker shades for the lower half may help slim the waist, while incorporating lighter or brighter colors at the top can help balance the figure.


For plus-size pear-shaped women, Ashley Stewart offers a wide collection of gala dresses that cover the hips and accentuate the upper body.

Apple Shape

For an apple body shape, you can opt for dresses that would balance out by bringing a silhouette that draws attention to the upper body. Perfect styles of such dresses would include ones with flair at the top, belted styles, or a cinched waistline. They bring out one's best features while at the same time offering comfort.


Ashley Stewart's A-line gowns are perfect for formal events and galas. Their flowing skirts skim elegantly over your midsection. The cinched waist and fullness in the skirt will give you a balanced look.

Gala Outfit Ideas From Ashley Stewart

Check out these gala outfit suggestions from the Ashley Stewart collections to get inspiration for your attire and kickstart your style search for the gala event. 

1. The Classic Black Gown

The timeless black gown is always a choice for any occasion! Choose a classy design that enhances your silhouette beautifully and accessorize with diamonds or pearls, for a touch that never goes out of style. Consider diamond stud earrings or a classic pearl necklace to complement the gown's understated elegance and add a hint of sophistication to your outfit. Opt for heels in metallic tones to keep the attention on your entire look. At Ashley Stewart, we offer a wide range of dresses perfect for all gala events.

2. A Vibrant Ball Gown

If you wish to be noticed, choose a bright color such as red, emerald green, or royal blue. Make sure the gown fits well with your body and skin complexion. You should carefully choose the color of your attire so that it complements your skin tone.


For instance, warm skin tones look great in ruby red or mustard yellow, while cool skin tones look good in sapphire blue or emerald greens. 

3. Jumpsuit

To step outside the box, consider rocking a high-end designer jumpsuit to your gala. A classic, formal jumpsuit with a great heel can give you a unique look.

4. Cocktail Dresses

Cocktail gowns are perfect for semi-formal attire dress codes because they are less formal. Still looking for more formal cocktail dresses at Ashley Stewart for a gala event.

5. A Pleated Satin Gown

Suppose you wish for an attire that is appropriate for a gala but also has an infusion of your vivacious personality. In that case, you can opt for a strapless pleated chiffon gown in different colors, which is appropriate for all gala events. If you are looking for pleated satin dresses, do explore our collection at Ashley Stewart. We offer a wide range of pleated skirts and gowns perfect for all occasions.

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4 Things to Avoid While Dressing Up for a Gala Event

Here are some of the things you should keep in mind while dressing up for a gala event:

  • Leave the casuals behind: Jeans, tees, and sneakers stay home. A gala is your time to dress like the moment.

  • Makeup with intention: A touch of shimmer, a bold lip, or a defined eye—go for glam that feels like you, not overdone.

  • Polished and glowing: Think sleek hair, clean nails, and skin that feels fresh. It’s about showing up feeling your best.

  • Details that speak: A bold clutch, statement earrings, or a dazzling bracelet can turn a great outfit into a wow moment.

  • Dress code your runway brief: Whether it’s black tie or cocktail, use it as a starting point, not a limitation, to express your style.

Conclusion

The key to looking great at any gala or formal event—no matter your body type—is knowing what styles work best for you. Ashley Stewart offers plus-size formal gowns, wrap dresses, bodycon styles, and midi dresses designed to flatter and stand out. Whether you're getting ready for a black-tie event, white-tie affair, or a semi-formal costume gala, you’ll find elegant options that help you feel confident and stylish.


So next time you're asking yourself what to wear to a gala, remember: Ashley Stewart has dresses that bring out your most polished and powerful self.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is traditional gala attire?

Traditional galas mean garments of ancient elegance. Women wear floor-sweeping gowns or elegant cocktail dresses. These very often satin, velvet, or chiffon gowns drape beautifully and give a sense of understated grandeur. Alternatively, refined cocktail dresses can be the second choice for those who like hemlines but not at the floor. Men wear tuxedos or impeccably tailored dark suits with a tie.


Ashley Stewart offers a diverse selection of formal gowns and cocktail dresses, including A-line midi dresses, pleated gowns, and more. Each curve is expertly crafted to sparkle with elegance and elevate a woman's self-esteem. These designs are sure to turn heads at any gala event, and delicate lace, elaborate beadwork, and subtle decorations all add that touch of elegance

What does a female wear to a gala?

There are plenty of fashion options available to women when attending galas. However, long gowns are most appropriate for a formal black-tie occasion of any kind, whereas short cocktail dresses are better suited for the less formal type of galas.


Ashley Stewart offers a wide range of dresses suitable for gala events. Our collections have a variety of dresses, like knee-length dresses for cocktail events, body-hugging dresses that will show off your curves, and flowy pleated dresses for that romantic feel. We also have gorgeous dark shades, which are always appropriate for formal occasions.

What is the dress code for a gala?

Gala dress codes can be very formal or semi-formal. What precisely this means might be specified in the invitation, using words like "black-tie," "white-tie," "black-tie optional," or "cocktail wear." Familiarity with the meaning of these terms will help you dress suitably. Gala wear, at its core, is all about elegance and sophistication.


Ashley Stewart's collection very beautifully captures all these different dress codes. Whether it is the most formal black-tie gala affair, which asks for floor-length gowns, or a relatively casual gathering that demands a chic cocktail dress, Ashley Stewart has everything ready for you to feel confident and glamorous. Indeed, our collection does represent the multitude of needs as referred by the gala-goer, offering choices so that there is a perfect balance between formality and individual expression.

What is the cocktail attire for a gala?

A cocktail dress to a gala would be less formal than a black tie. It consists of cocktail dresses for females, which range from being knee-length to a little above, and suits with ties instead of tuxedos for men. In this category, Ashley Stewart truly stands out, offering a range of classy cocktail dresses that perfectly suit the occasion. These dresses hit just the perfect balance: sophisticated enough to fit in for the gala atmosphere but, simultaneously, comfortable and easy to move about, so you could enjoy a carefree night without your dresses constraining you at all. 

Can I wear a midi dress to a gala?

Depending on the dress code of the particular gala you are applying to, a midi dress is suitable for most occasions. A midi dress can be appropriate when the event is called "cocktail attire" or "black tie optional." Nonetheless, for a strictly black-tie event, a floor-length gown would be more conventionally appropriate.


Ashley Stewart offers a wide range of midi dresses to match every cocktail attire and semi-formal gala you are attending. You're sure to get different styles, colors, and fabrics to suit your personal taste and occasion, making you feel confident and radiant at any gala.

Can you wear jeans to a gala dinner?

Wearing jeans to a gala dinner is a big no-no, even if the dress code is a bit relaxed. Galas are special events with a fancy atmosphere, so formal clothes are expected. Even if it's not a super strict black-tie event, it's better to be safe and dress up nicely to match the occasion.


Ashley Stewart offers a variety of great options to choose from, rather than just jeans. Our collection features elegant dresses and stylish outfits that will help you look and feel your best at any gala, regardless of the dress code. You'll be sure to make a good impression and fit right in with the glamorous crowd.