Evening Gown from the Judge’s Perspective

The Judges Point of View
By Chris Franz
Pageant Judge and Pageant Coach

Evening Gown from the Judge’s Perspective

Those of you who know me know that I could talk all day about evening gowns. When I take someone gown shopping I am in my element. The evening gown portion of any pageant is like the shining star of the entire event. Just like that star, you have to shine your brightest and look your absolute best. When I score evening gowns I’m looking at the attention to detail. What I mean by this, is fit and flawless.  The fit of the gown is by far the most important aspect. The gown should be part of you and flow with you. There shouldn’t be any bumps or wrinkles where there not supposed to be. Length has to be perfect. This is where I tell someone that you and your seamstress have to be as one. A great seamstress is just as an important as a great hair and makeup person. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve spotted the lining of a gown or on an interview skirt when I was judging. I coached a woman who spent $3500 on her interview suit just to have her stand in front of me minutes before her interview and I spot the lining on the hem of her skirt. I couldn’t believe it. Luckily I performed a little magic with some tape and off she went. Also, have someone check your skirt to be sure that it’s on straight with the zipper in the back dead center. This is exactly the kind of details I’m talking about.

Let’s talk price for just a minute. If you can afford to spend a lot of money on a gown and you have a preferred stylist or designer then I say go for it. That’s usually not the case for most women so keep this in mind. I’ve seen women win state and national titles in $60.00 off the rack gowns and I’ve seen them win in $10,000 gowns as well. There are many websites that offer huge discounts on designer name gowns so take the time and shop. Remember though, it’s all about the fit. A $10,000 gown that doesn’t fit right isn’t going to save you because of the price.

Color and selection of your evening gown should reflect your hair color, and also your body type. Keep in mind that a lot of women think white is a winner. If it’s the right gown, it may be, but be a little open minded. Black as we all know is slimming, but again be careful if you decide to go with black or a dark color. Keep in mind that most stage or auditorium backgrounds are dark and therefore you and your gown could get lost in it. You’ll want to add sparkle to a darker color gown.  Look at all your options before you decide on a certain gown. There is such a wide variety to choose from so take the time to find the perfect one. When you shop for a gown, think about how tan you’ll be, or how will you change your hair color at pageant time.  How high do you want that slit or do you want a longer train? Also, don’t be afraid to come out of your comfort zone when shopping for a gown. This isn’t cousin Freddie’s wedding so be a little daring. Just like with swimsuit, look at your attributes and go for it. You can look glamorous and tasteful at the same time. Above anything else, practice walking in your gown way before pageant time and especially practice on stairs. A lot of pageants will have a platform and a stairway to descend onto the stage. Those three or four steps can be a huge hurdle if you don’t practice (Not to mention an ankle breaker). Also, a lot of venues will have the dressing rooms on the floor below the stage which mean you have to negotiate those steps as well, and often in a hurry. Practice, practice, practice! It’s natural to be nervous so be sure you’re comfortable walking in those heels with that gown on. Compose yourself right before it’s your turn and take a deep breath before you begin. A deep breath done correctly will help put your body in the proper posture. Shoulders back, hands and arm relaxed, smile, and you’ll be just fine. When it all comes together you’ll look and feel your best and the judges will see that too.

“Have a Pageant Perfect Day”