A spaghetti strap gown with a beaded criss-cross neckline and side. This elegant gown has a beautiful rear view. - photos by Winston Sill/Freelance Photographer

Think gowns and you think a black-tie event, which equates to a formal occasion. Pretty much the most formal attire there is in a woman's wardrobe, ball and evening gowns are reserved for the exclusive evening events such as balls, weddings and formal dinners. With the terms used interchangeably, evening gowns are more predominant in Jamaica as opposed to ball gowns which tend to be wider from the waist with more volume. And while the styles and cuts may vary, evening gowns are mostly body fitting.

One sure way of feeling like true royalty is to get dolled up in a gown. This year, you can use December 31 as the grand excuse and the perfect time to done a fabulous gown to ring in the new year. There are many to choose from, ranging in hues and styles. Embellishments are also commonly used to adorn these gowns, giving them that extra oomph.

So since New Year's Eve is literally three days way, Flair as always is looking out for you its readers, making your shopping experience a little less hectic. So with you in mind, we went shopping, with our first stop at Emanuelle Boutique and then Bling Bling, exclusive dealer of Sherry Couture. We also bring you highlights from Angela's Christmas fashion show, some gowns that are perfect for the festive season.

PS: We threw into the mix two knee-length dresses, just for those who have a slight preference for that length.

A knee-length dress might be up your street. This has a gleaming fuchsia colour with flecks of gold weaved down the centre. Available at Emanuelle Boutique: $7,900 including GCT. Model: Kiesha Ann Smith.

Look smoldering in this green gown available at Angela's. - photos by Colin Hamilton/freelance photographer

This collared black gown with sequined underlay and embellishments is elegant and super sexy. Available at Bling Bling: US$400 (approx. J$36,000). Model: Keisha Thomas.

Beaded turquoise beauty, the skirt of this dress is overlayed with black chiffon. Available at Emanuelle Boutique: $15,990. Model: Kiesha Ann Smith.

Be a pink princess in this sexy gown with an embroidered neck and cut-out sides covered with chiffon. Available at Bling Bling Price: US$350 (sale price. approximately J$31,500) Model: Keisha Thomas.

Step out in style in this elegant gown embellished at the midsection.The delicate and ultimately feminine pink colour is perfect. Available at Emanuelle Boutique: $16,900 including GCT. Model: Kiesha Ann Smith.

Light up the night in this black number with silver highlights. Available at: Emanuelle Boutique: $12,990 including GCT. Model: Kiesha Ann Smith.

Look like you're in a fairy tale; this piece from Angela's was on show at the store's annual Christmas fashion show recently.

A two-piece gold number is fit for the unconventional woman. The bodice is part tulle embellished with sequin and rhinestones.

Model: Kiesha Ann Smith

Emanuelle Boutique: Shop 1,

Southdale Plaza

Bling Bling: Shop 4, Lane Plaza Constant Spring Road. Sale currently on select gowns or cocktail dresses. Buy one gown or cocktail dress (from selected items) at regular price and get a second one free. Sale lasts until December 31.

Model: Keisha Thomas

Angela's 7 Merrick Avenue

Ready for a ball!