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If you’ve got a formal event coming up, you’re likely intimately familiar with this issue. You pick up one fashion magazine and read about all the outrageous “must-have” dresses the celebrities are wearing to film openings this week. You see the same styles in stores. Then, you read other articles that tell you to dress classic and simple for formal events.

So, who’s right?

Celebrities are paid big bucks (and are usually given or loaned free designer formal dresses) to stand out at big events. That’s why they wear what is hottest and trendiest. They are out there to get seen and to make a statement. The average woman who goes to two or three special events a year probably does not have a celebrity budget and needs a formal dress that takes her to several events. A little black dress or a classic formal dress will look timeless through plenty of seasons, so that’s the obvious choice.

What about you? Well, that depends on your budget and your formal dress needs. If you can afford it and you only go to one formal event (or less) a year, there’s no harm in getting something trendy for a formal dress and really having fun with it. For ultra-special events like the prom, it is also fun to get a once-in-a-lifetime trendy dress you love. If you want a dress that will see you through more than one event, however, you will need a classic formal dress. Something in a classic color and flattering shape will see you through several events and will always be ready in your closet when a special evening comes along.

Looking to expand your summer dress wardrobe? Now is the perfect time – many formal looks from spring are at discount and now that autumn is coming, many retailers are offering great sales on their summer dresses to make room for back-to-school fashions. Here’s what to look for as you start shopping:

1) Formal dresses in solid, metallic colors. Red carpets lately have been filled with classy formal dresses that are high on shimmer. Many celebrities are wearing blush and soft colors in metallic fabrics, although a few are opting for bolder hot pink colors that flatter darker skin tones.

2) Ethnic print summer dresses. Bold, multi-colored prints that look as though they hail from exotic locales are all the rage this summer. These dresses also look great with the hippie slouch bags that are hot this summer.

3) Printed swing dresses. Casual summer dresses in bright patterns featuring swing or a-line skirts are trendy right now and perfect for staying cool on hot days.

4) The little black dress – with a twist. Fashion-forward celebrities are embracing little black dresses that feature either cut out shapes or sheer skirts that show off toned legs. These dresses are lighter and more fun than the more formal little black dress, and are perfect for fun summer events.

5) Red one-shoulder dresses. These are popping up at award events everywhere. They really make summer evenings red-hot.

Supermodels and actresses look amazing on the red carpet, and by using the same tricks you, too, can look amazing in your formal dress:

1) Wear shapewear under a formal dress. While celebrities clocks serious time with personal trainers, they also rely on supportive lingerie to look their best. Under a clingy formal dress, especially shapewear instead of your usual lingerie keeps things looking smooth and perfect.

2) Check your posture. If you don’t tend to wear dresses, especially, consider putting on your dress before the big event and watching yourself in the mirror. Do you slouch? How gracefully do you sit down? If possible, get someone to make a video of you walking, sitting, and standing in your dress, and use this video evidence to correct subtle mistakes – like that slouch – before you wear your dress out. Virtually all formal dresses look better if you have a poised, confident posture and that is something you can learn.

3) Use special double-sided tape from your favorite lingerie store if you have a low-cut or strapless dress. This tape will absolutely ensure no accidents with your formal dress. Also, pop some extra tape into your purse – it’s a great quick fix for hemlines or problems at your event.

4) Wear high heels if you can. High heels always look elegant and make your legs look longer.

5) Choose your dress color carefully. The little black dress is a classic, but if you are very pale it can make you look washed out. Instead, take a look at your closet. What colors make you feel most confident? If you’re cool-toned, try rich blues or greens. If you look best with warm colors, opt for fiery reds or even stand-out oranges.

It’s inevitable: that big summer event that requires you to wear a formal dress falls on an incredibly hot day. If you need to dress formal, you don’t have to wilt in that formal dress. Here’s how to stay cool and look fabulous:

1) Wear an upswept hairstyle. Getting the hair off your face and neck will help with the heat and will keep your hair from wilting as well.

2) Look for a dress that does not hug your curves too tight. A tight dress clinging to your skin will not feel great. Look for a dress that gives you some wiggle room.

3) Look for light, breezy fabrics. A light summer formal dress will keep you coolest, especially if it is also backless, above the knee, and has thin straps. The less fabric, the better. Also, look for lighter colors, since black and other dark colors absorb heat and can make you feel warmer. If you have a choice, opt for natural fabrics such as silks or linens, which let your skin breathe and therefore keep you cooler.

4) Choose the rest of your clothes carefully. Even if you don’t have a choice (and you’re stuck in a bridesmaids dress that has yards of heavy fabric, for example) you can still make other choices. Choose tiny lingerie that will give you some air and choose either over-the-knee pantyhose or spray-on pantyhose (yes, it does exist!) rather than covering the entire leg area. Look for tiny strappy sandals that will keep your feet cooler.

5) Get prepared. If you are in formal wear on a hot day, look for shady areas – and the refreshment stand. Stay out of the sun when you can and make sure you hydrate with water so that you feel and look great at your event. Also, bring a pretty shawl or wrap if your event lasts into the evening – summer nights get chilly fast.