xmas formal dresses GERsome Christmas Cocktail Dress Women's Elegant Long Sleeve Cocktail Party for Wedding Guest Fit and Flare Modest Church Midi Evening Dress S-XXL this dress captures the warmth and joy of Christmas with a nostalgic twist DRESSTELLS Green Velvet Dress for

Strapless fully handed beaded and sequined long prom dress by Jovani with a sheath silhouette

Featuring a shirred drop waist with double-tiered velvet trimmed ruffles at the hem, a high ruffled collar with self covered baby buttons, and side pockets

For a sleek look, tap into the maxi trend and opt for a column style that drapes rather than hugs the body

Some complained about the stitching quality and worry that it won't hold up over time

Varying shades of gray are perfect options for black-tie affairs

Full Text Resources: BBC Four: A Stitch in time (website) Amber Butchart's webpage Ninya Mikhaila, historical costumier Kendra Van Cleave