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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Columbia Barnard chapter.

You’ve (almost) survived the semester. And if you’re anything like me, I’m sure you’re beyond ready to get out of Mo-Heights. Luckily for you, the last day of classes is just around the corner. Sure, we have finals aka Hell-on-Earth, but cheers to being in total denial about it and pretending it doesn’t exist. What better way to celebrate the end of the semester than the moment every member of Greek life has been waiting for: Winter Formal! After majorly stressing about dates and pre-formal dinner groups, you may have found that you’ve neglected to plan the most important part – the dress. If this is you, don’t worry, because there are about a hundred other girls in your position right now. Thankfully, you still have all weekend to go shopping and/or rummage through every one of your sisters’ closets. No idea what kind of dress you’re after? We’ve got options: here’s my list of ten timeless formal looks to get the ball rolling…now go out and find yourself the perfect dress. 

 

1. The Bandage Dress

A bandage dress is a classic go-to, and there’s a reason: it makes you look hot as hell. Show off your bangin’ bod in this curve-hugging classic. You can find this specific dress at Bebe!

 

2. The LBD

The LBD has been praised as a must-have staple for decades, so you can’t go wrong. You can accesorize any way you want, and you can find them literally anywhere. This dress is from ASOS, but you can also find at American Apparel, H&M, Forever21, Topshop, a sister’s closet… the list goes on!

 

3. The Backless Dress 

 This dress is beyond classy, but still has tons of sex-appeal when you turn around! Simple in the front, party in the back.

 

4. The Sequin Dress

In honor of the holiday season, try out some head-to-toe sparkle! This dress is a definite head-turner and will have you glittering (get it?) with confidence all night!

 

5. The Velvet Dress

Another seasonal classic, this dress is perfect for winter formal. It’s on trend, and will keep you (moderately) warm! Try this option from Missguided, or hit up American Apparel (literally down the street from campus).

 

6. The Winter White Dress

Amidst a sea of dark fall colors, stand out in winter white! You can accesorize with darker shoes and accessories to keep it seasonally appropriate, and this dress will have everyone stopping to stare. 

7. The Long-Sleeved Dress

Who says long sleeves can’t be sexy? This number from Revolve Clothing proves they can. Sleeves are perfect for winter, and you can always play with cutouts, mesh, and length to keep the va-va-voom factor.

 

8. The Romper/Skort Dress

Yaaaaaas, I will tell anyone who listens: I’m all about the romper in lieu of a dress. I wore one last semester, and you better believe I’m going for round 2. It can be as short as you want without any judgement, and you can dance your ass off worry free. Aren’t you in love with this option from Tobi?

 

9. The Assymetrical Dress

Assymetric hemlines have been crazy popular this year, and they can make your legs look like a billion times longer. Try an assymetric dress, or a skirt and top!

 

10. The Two-Piece Set

Twosies are a BFD right now, just ask ASOS. What better way to show off your midriff, and stay up-to-date on the latest trends?

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Sofia Lyons

Columbia Barnard

I'm a first year student at Barnard and aspiring fashion journalist, hoping to bring my fellow collegiettes some style tips & info about upcoming trends! I also love singing/songwriting, dancing, event planning, community service, eating good food, and exploring NYC.