| How to Survive Prom Season By: Eunice Kim No matter how many decades prom has been around, the process of shopping for prom dresses remains just as nerve-wracking as it was for our mothers and grandmothers. However, it is very possible to make dress shopping inexpensive, efficient, and fun, as long as you go early and make reasonable choices. Adriana Valdez, marketing manager for Windsor Stores, has a few invaluable tips for all shoppers looking for the perfect dress. “This year we’ve noticed that long printed dresses are more in, whereas last year, short bubble dresses were the most popular,” she says. Thankfully, plenty of lovely styles are available for longer dresses. The empire cut dress has a long, full skirt that flows from a high waistline, perfect for women with wide hips and short or petite figures. The sheath on the other hand, is a slim, often sleeveless dress that hugs curves, flattering tall and thin figures. The princess-cut, or A-line, has a seamless bodice that fits around the natural waist and gently flared skirt – perfect for women with curvier bodies. Another viable option is the bouffant gown, which has a puffed-out skirt made from stiffened silk or rayon, useful for bottom-heavy figures. Last but not least, the ball gown has a seamed waist and a full skirt that begins from the natural waistline and reaches the ground, visually cutting the body in half. It is my first recommendation for taller women. Adriana knows the golden rule regarding prom dress shopping: shop early. “Always buy your dress on time,” says Adriana, “The worst thing that could happen is having to shop at the last minute when everyone else is looking around for the dress they want.” Starting early is easy enough but how long is too long when deciding which dress to buy? “The most important thing is that you feel comfortable,” Adriana says. After all, if you feel good in it, you probably look good in it too, and you should feel at ease in your dream dress even after a night of dancing. Here are some styles that are in this year: bold and bright colors, asymmetrical hems, and sparkly jewels. Also, remember that the hottest new prom dresses this year take after what our favorite celebrities have been wearing on the red carpet, so don’t be afraid to take notes from what you see on TV if you want to stay current. Also, if you plan on ordering a dress online, be sure to carefully examine the pictures that dress merchants provide and ask lots of questions about shipping procedures and return policies as well the condition of the dress. Too many girls have had their dresses shipped to them late and not in the condition they want. If all of this sounds expensive, don’t panic! There are ways to save money no matter what store you visit. “It’s important to find a dress that fits you,” says Adriana, “That way you won’t have to pay for alterations. This is another reason why it’s important to start shopping early.” Windsor is currently having a liquidation sale, and Forever 21 is currently selling evening dresses for prices as low as $10. And if you still think you paid too much for your dress, it’s perfectly reasonable to make compromises in other areas. Unlike dresses, shoes and accessories can be borrowed. “You can always recycle shoes. Wear the same pair you wore for homecoming,” says Adriana. One thing to avoid during your dress shopping is peer pressure. The buying process is supposed to be fun, not laborious, so go with someone you want to go with. And don’t let the criticisms of your friends discourage you from pursuing the look you are going for. The most important thing about your prom dress is that it should allow you to express yourself. Remember: Prom is only one night so it’s not worth spending a fortune on, but it’s definitely a momentous time for a girl to show off her best look. Here are a few prom dresses under $50 that are in style this year from Windsor, Forever 21, and NextEve websites. They are just three of many great sources for inexpensive, high-quality dresses. |
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