If you’re confused about what to wear to your prom, begin by examining your inner self. What kind of woman are you, and how do you dress day-to-day? Do you boldly lean toward what is different, or do you tend to keep your look classic, lean and mean?
Perhaps you’re a risk taker, completely unconventional in your wardrobe choices. You may be the kind of girl who will show up in something so outré, that they will still be talking about it at your class reunion. (Black & White dress from Promgirl.com)
The options for prom dresses are endless. Consider the two most common categories, structured and unstructured:
If your gown is structured (this blue gown is from egowns.com), it is most likely made with denser fabrics like satin or taffeta. Structured gowns tend to have more seams and may even feature boning with which to better sculpt and carve the body. Or, your gown could be utterly un-structured, draping in the way of a nightie all “nightie” long. Think about what you would feel most comfortable in. What are your assets, and what do you want to accentuate (or perhaps even hide)?
For example, if you’re worried about your short height, then choose a short dress. Shorter dresses which reveal more leg tend to make you look taller and leaner! (Find these dresses at Promgirl.com)
Don’t forget to consider what your date may wear! It’s important that you go for the same look. Is he going to turn himself out in a dashing tuxedo? Or is he a joker, chomping at the bit to make a scene with a bizarre tie or hat at the prom? Or maybe he’s just a rugged individualist who wants to wear snakeskin. You need to know!
There are four common types of gown wearers, which are you?:
1: Extravagant
2: C'est Chic
Streamlined classics are key (this satin dress is from Nordstrom.com). Chanel, Dior, Valentino and Balenciaga are benchmark designers for this look. There might be an interesting twist on the gown, but overall the look is clean and crisp without straying into the outer limits of fashion terrain. Be sure your date is in sync with your look; there is nothing worse than ruining your chic’ness with a Hawaiian shirt or glow-in-the-dark tie on your arm.
3: Sculpted Venus
For plus dresses, you can still achieve the sculpted venus aura at www.promgirl.com
—they are teeming with plus size A+’s. (Try this "New Attitude" dress from Promgirl.com)
4: Meow
You know those thin, sleek and drapey satins that cling to your curves. You know the plunging neckline, the draping back, and the thin spaghetti straps that keep this gown on your physique all night. Your date should be able to deal with other men cutting in on his dancing time. (This pink dress can be found at Promgirl.com)
Which type of gown-wearer are you? Where to shop? If you’re still confused as to which type of style you want to pursue, go to www.promadvice.com . To browse a full selection of your options in gowns and accessories, try www.sydneyscloset.com or www.edressme.com. Another terrific resource with an enchanting selection of gowns for your special event is www.nordstrom.com. Good luck finding your dress!
What are you going to accessorize your prom outfit with? Check out our prom accessory guide!
Want some more Prom Dress Ideas, check out our PROM GUIDE
Article Written By: Jennifer Blue; Jennifer writes from Los Angeles, CA. Her passion for fashion is currently worked into writing and illustration.
