The Style and Beauty Doctor reader Ferri wrote in asking for some birthday party outfit options under $100 for her upcoming 21st birthday. She says, “I would like some ideas for a birthday outfit. I’m turning 21! =)Nov 27. (I’m very excited!!!!) I had some ideas in mind a long sleeved sequin body dress w/ my hair in a high dramatic bun;any other suggestions would be deeply appreciated. I’m a full time college student w/ a budget. I’m a size 10/12 depending on the cut. I would really appreciate your help!”

While I normally suggest only purchasing clothing that you can wear a million times, for a birthday—especially your 21st—I have an almost “anything goes” policy. Birthdays are about celebrations and I believe one should dress as if they themselves were a walking celebration.

Unless you can find a designer dress at a super steal, normally party dresses in the under $100 price range can be somewhat unkind to curvier body shapes. If that’s the case, I suggest going up a size. Be sure to check out Dressing for Your Body (look for posts on your body type) and What Lies Beneath for undergarment info.

That said–onto the outfits!

Evening Dresses by Arden B
Platforms by Forever 21

I love the idea of a sequin dress as it plays into the “I’m a walking celebration” motif. Since the dress assumes the role of both a dress and accessories because of the sequins, keep everything else simple. I couldn’t resist adding a tiara just for extra “It’s my birthday” sauciness…lol.

Another idea is to go Carrie Bradshaw style and mix textures and prints you normally wouldn’t put together like lace, faux fur, and animal print. Nix the hat on the model though.

Evening Dresses by Forever 21
Boots by Spiegel

Here’s some more ideas:

More Alloy…

And since it will be cold, be sure to check out How to Wear a Coat with a Dress.

Have fun and Happy Birthday!

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