It’s your Sweet Sixteen, and you want to celebrate this important milestone in style. Turning 16 marks a pivotal moment in your life, as you move towards adulthood and enter a new phase of life. Many girls decide to choose this birthday to go all-out and throw a huge celebration to remember forever.
There are many different kinds of Sweet 16 Parties and no rules for what you decide to do. You can go fully formal, rent out a big venue and invite a huge crowd of friends. You can go more relaxed and have a backyard BBQ or pool-side party. The choice is yours, and you should pick a type of party you feel comfortable and happy with!
One key component of your planning will be finding the right Sweet Sixteen dress. What you choose will depend on the kind of party you’ll be throwing. If you want to go full-on glam and achieve a red carpet inspired look, opt for a floor-length gown. This is perfect for a bigger party with a more formal dress code. Remember to outline what guests should wear on your invitation, so your guests will be similarly as dressy.
What do you do at a Sweet 16?
Are Sweet 16s formal?
A Sweet 16 party doesn’t have to be formal, but many girls want to throw a big fancy event. In this case, you’ll want a stunning maxi dress that stands out. The style and silhouette is your own choice. You could go princess-style and pick a royal blue ballgown. You can go glamorous in a high slit or open back dress with a sheath fit. Another option is a high low gown. This is shorter at the front but has some drama with a floor-length at the back. It can even have a train or detachable overskirt.
Take a look below at our top picks for long dresses that are ideal for a Sweet Sixteen teenage girl. Remember to try on a few different styles to find a silhouette that best flatters you and the event. Color is also important – there is a full range of options, from metallic to pastel. Floral prints, sequins and embroidery can add texture too.
Long Sweet Sixteen Dresses
How to Pick a Sweet 16 Dress
If a long dress doesn’t fit in with your party style, you can also wear a short Sweet Sixteen dress. This type of party or cocktail style is still just as glamorous and gorgeous! It’s also a great comfortable choice for dancing in and looks perfect during Summer parties.
A popular silhouette choice for teen girls in the fit and flare style. This can have spaghetti straps, a halter with an open back, or strapless sweetheart. There’s loads of options including pretty blush tulle designs, or edgy looks with lots of beadwork. Make your choice based on your own taste, personality, and party style. If you don’t like the fit and flare shape, there’s also many empire waist or fitted pieces that have a grown-up vibe and are elegant options for teens at the same time.
Take a look below at just a few of our favorite short party dresses for a Sweet 16. These can even be re-worn as a homecoming dress or for another special occasion.
Short Sweet 16 Party Dresses
Sweet Sixteen Accessories & Alternative Outfits
Not a fan of girly dresses? Don’t worry, there are still lots of ways you can flaunt your individual sense of style for your party. A great alternative includes our collection of rompers, jumpsuits and two-piece suits. These still have the right dressy vibe and can look very fashion-forward for your event!
Don’t forget that whatever outfit you pick, you’ll also want to pick coordinating accessories. This can include selecting the right hair and makeup, shoes and a bag. If your outfit is colorful, keep things neutral and modern with minimal nude, metallic, black or white accessories. You can also pick out a piece of special jewelry to mark the occasion such as a great necklace, ring or bracelet. Remember, this Sweet Sixteen party is your own, so make it a special event in your own way. Celebrate in a style that best reflects you, and enjoy the special long-lasting memories for a lifetime!
