Are you still searching for the perfect recital dress? You're not alone. With so many stunning gowns out there, it's hard not to want them all. If you're looking for inspiration, you're at the right place! One of these just might lead you to the dress of your dreams! They all work on a variety of body types, despite the lack of diversity in models, but that's a rant for another day.

Evening Recital

This sleek silhouette is for the serious, mature diva. Are you an Alcina or Carmen? This is for you. It shows your shape and commands attention while still looking powerful. Asos is a good resource for gowns like this one.

Alternately, this one is for the glamorous, ultra feminine diva. This gown is for the Amelias, the Cinderellas, and the Countesses. It commands attention, but is still graceful. Looking for something similar? Prom and pageant stores are your best bet.

Somewhere in between? This gorgeous green is sophisticated and screams spring. If you're a soubrette, this gown matches the personality with a a short under skirt. It's technically following the rules of formal attire, and for the opera character we can relate to, we can find a gown at the ever accessible department store.

This stunning combination of sophistication and embellishment would look amazing on stage. Another Countess gown, this one would also suit a Musetta. It's glamorous, but also shows your figure. Stores specializing in pageants would be the best places to find something like this.

Though we rarely turn our backs on the audience, a fun back embellishment is still a great idea for photoshoots. Because this gown is simple, it works for a variety of character types. Simple and sophisticated gowns like this are easy to find at stores like David's Bridal or other bridal stores.

Afternoon Engagements

A less formal recital would be a perfect venue for this feminine dress with boho vibes. I might choose this if I were singing "La pastorella delle Alpi" or one of Zerlina's arias. It screams idyllic countryside. You can find dresses like this one at Free People.

Are you more of a fan of vintage styles? This one might be more in line with your taste. Maybe it's the book and the arrival of Beauty and the Beast in theaters, but this screams French music. Featuring Poulenc or Debussy? This is your dress. Anthropologie is a great source for this kind of dress.

If you loved the sleek, formal gowns, this form fitting dress would be perfect. If your repertoire is on the serious side, this would be beautiful on stage. I also might choose something like this for Poulenc. Asos has tons of dresses like this one.

Pinup styles are great for inspiration, too. These polka dots are on trend! Singing a lot of crossover repertoire like jazz or musical theatre? This dress allows lots of free movement. Modcloth is a good resource for pinup inspired styles.

If you're like me and love long dresses, embrace the floral trend with something similar to this sunny gown. The ingenue and the fairy look perfect in dresses like these. You can find options at stores like Loft, Free People, and department stores.

Embrace Your Culture

Western styles aren't the only formal options out there! If you love your cultural heritage, embrace it.

Black and gold are so dramatic and gorgeous on stage. Also, that gold pattern has serious #mermaidvibes! Because of the black and gold, this gown is perfect for Queen of the Night. It would also be perfect for any Cinderellas looking to honor the golden slippers in some versions of the tale. There are some great options at cbazaar.

If you cover your hair in daily life, then there's no reason to feel like you have to uncover for a recital. This purple gown is stunning! This is fit for any Juliette, Fiordiligi, or Morgana. Modanisa has some beautiful options like this one.

This bright yellow gown is summery and elegant. It would be great for Pamina or Dorabella among many other characters. For a dress like this one, I'd recommend shopping local.

Another take on the floral trend, this orchid-accented gown is both glamorous and classy. If you're a Mimi, Rusalka, or Amneris, this is your gown. You can find more like it at utsavfashion.

The bottom line is this: Don't be afraid to embrace your personal style. If you're going to spend the money on a gown for your recital, it should be something that makes you feel like your best self. If your recital isn't until the Fall, or next year, go ahead and think about gowns now. Then, shop the sales once prom season is over - you might score a serious deal.

Happy shopping!