THE LONG AND SHORT OF PROM

Now that you've made your Prom budget, (see last month's blogs), it's time to start zeroing in on what you'd like to wear. There are so many options, how do you choose between a long gown or a short dress for Prom?????? A print or solid???? And what color to pick?????


Start by flipping through the Prom mags, and ripping out photos of dresses you like. If it's Junior Prom, and you have great legs, short is definitely OK. If it's Senior Prom, long is probably a better choice, as for important social rites of passage nothing beats a long dress for glamour, and it's probably the last time you get to wear one before you get married! Short might be a good decision if you don't have a date, and are going in a girl's limo as well. A short dress can probably be worn again, but keep in mind that for Prom it should have a little extra bling!


If you are petite, a high/low hem might be a good compromise. Many of the long gowns have trains, so don't be afraid to hem those off, even if you are tall, but worried about dancing and tripping all night long.

Style-wise, think about a halter if you are a little bustier, it will give you better support. Strapless is OK too, as most dresses come with optional straps that can be pinned in after photos for support while dancing and dining. If hips or thighs are your problem, go for a skirt bottom with a little swing to it, not poufy, just A-line so it skims the hips. If you are thin, you can go for trumpet bottom hems, tiers, and ruffles galore, but avoid these at all costs if you carry your weight below the waist. If you are thin you can choose a clingy jersey knit, or charmeuse, but otherwise look for chiffon, it is forgiving. Crystal pleating is popular in both short and long dresses this year, and it works for all figure types.

Prints are a hot trend in Prom, but can be overwhelming for some. If florals are not your thing, try a geometric, or a black & white color contrast. If you prefer a solid color, jewel tones like ruby, emerald, and sapphire are popular again, and a nice change from baby pink & baby blue. Turn to aqua or turquoise, fushcia or melon. Think of the theme of the Prom, but don't try to match the decorations. Purple is hard to wear even if the theme is "Mardi Gras". Keep in mind your skin type and hair color, that is more important. If you are pale, don't wear too dark or too light a color. Red looks good whether you are a blonde or brunette. Redheads shy away from pink please, blue, aqua, turq is the way for you. White is often saved for Seniors at some schools. Gold or silver metallic fabrics are very fashionable for Prom as well this year, so give them a try, just keep the gown style simple.

Take a look at shopfashionqueen for more Prom style and color ideas. We'll chat about shoes and accessories next time.