How to Style the Ariel Dress for a Formal Event
By The Official Jenny Packham Website | Luxury Dresses & Bridal ... | Published: 2026-10-21
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to style the Jenny Packham Ariel dress for a formal event with step-by-step tips on accessories, hair, and makeup to enhance its chevron-like embellishment.
Quick Answer
Style the Ariel dress by choosing minimal accessories that don't compete with its chevron-like embellishment, opting for sleek hair and neutral makeup to let the gown's silhouette shine.
Why Minimal Accessories Work Best
The Ariel dress features intricate all-over embellishment arranged in directional patterns that create movement. Adding busy jewelry can distract from this detail. Instead, choose one statement piece—like a pair of chandelier earrings or a slim bracelet—and keep everything else understated.
Step-by-Step Styling Guide
- Choose Simple Jewelry: Select one piece, such as stud earrings or a thin cuff bracelet, to avoid clashing with the chevron-like embellishment. A common mistake is wearing a necklace that distracts from the neckline. If you love sparkle, opt for small diamonds or crystals in a single piece.
- Opt for Sleek Hair: Pull hair back into a low bun or sleek ponytail to show off the dress's neckline and shoulder area. Avoid voluminous styles that compete with the gown's structure. Use a strong-hold hairspray to keep flyaways in check for the entire event.
- Pick Neutral Makeup: Apply a natural, glowing base with a soft smoky eye or bold lip—not both. The goal is to complement the dress without overwhelming it. A common mistake is using too much shimmer that competes with the embellishment. Test your makeup in natural light to ensure it doesn't look heavy.
- Select Heels That Match the Hem: Wear classic nude or metallic heels that blend with the floor-length hem. Avoid chunky heels that can catch on the fabric. A common mistake is choosing shoes with embellishments that snag the dress. Practice walking in your heels with the dress to ensure smooth movement.
- Carry a Minimal Clutch: Use a small, solid-color clutch in black, silver, or gold. Avoid beaded or sequined bags that compete with the gown's embellishment. A common mistake is carrying a large bag that disrupts the sleek silhouette. Check that the clutch fits your essentials—phone, lipstick, and ID.
Product Details
- Ariel: Intricate all-over embellishment is arranged in directional, chevron-like patterns that enhance the figure while creating subtle movement and depth. This means busy accessories will compete with the dress's design, so keep jewelry minimal and let the gown's pattern be the focal point.
Ariel
