Still stressing about finding the perfect dress for prom? About to give in?! Don't despair! Try these tips to help narrow down your choices.
The first thing you're going to need is a lot of patience! It's unlikely you'll find the perfect dress on the first try. Consider your best color. What makes your eyes pop? What color best matches your skin tone? Hot colors this year are champagne, red, pink, blush white and ivory, according to Tamy Lugo, owner of VStylist by Tamy Lugo, a fashion wardrobe stylist and consultant company.
While you're trying on dresses, consider your body type to pick the most flattering style for yourself:
Busty: Bust is large, hips are narrow
Pick a dress that adds curves to your hips while defining your waist
Apple: Most of your weight is around your middle/waist
Try an A-line dress, empire waist or any type of embellishment that draws your eye to your upper body
Pear: Hips are larger than your bust, waist is defined.
Goal here is to add volume to your upper body so try a fitted open neck, strapless or A-line skirt
Hourglass: Curvy, but bust and hips are proportionate to each other
Best option is form fitted tops, v-necklines and accentuated waistlines
Slender: Predominately thin everywhere
Try an asymmetrical neckline, or a dress with a slit to add curves and dimension
While online shopping has its place, you'll definitely want to try your dress on. Maddie Robinson, a junior at Plant High School, has just started her prom dress shopping. Robinson, 17, says "I have been looking online for a dress. I want a dark purple one. I haven't had much luck yet and plan to go to Nordstrom International Plaza, Dillard's Citrus Park, and The Look Boutique soon."
Other local options include bridal shops like David's Bridal, Georgette's & The Shoe Salon and CC's Boutique. If you'd like more of a boutique look, try The Platinum Zipper, a favorite of VStylist by Tamy Lugo.
If money is tight, you don’t have to miss the big night because you can’t afford a dress. The Belle of the Ball will be distributing new and gently used formal dresses to Tampa Bay area in-need high school girls. To get a dress, girls need to attend one of their shopping dates in Clearwater held March 25, April 8, April 22 or May 6. Visit the Belle of the Ball site for more information. If you have a dress donation, all Tampa Bay Sun Country Cleaners will be accept donations.
When you're ready to accessorize, Debbie Karam, owner of DKM Accessories, has a wide variety of fashion jewelry and accessories at her shop - classic styles with a trendy twist. Karam says, "The look this Spring is all about the statement earring. From swingy beaded tassels to colorful silk circles hanging from a chain."
Robinson's friend, Gwen Lizarazo, a 17-year-old junior at Robinson High School IB, says she'd like to rent a dress to save money. Renting formal dresses is becoming popular and we have a great local option with Lending Luxury.They even cover the dry cleaning for you!
Prom dress shopping can be a lot of fun. Robinson's mom Sarah, says, "I'm looking forward to helping Maddie find her dress and the perfect shoes and accessories for the big night."
If you can't take your mom or a friend or two, consider sending them a photo so they can text you their opinion while you're still shopping. If nothing else, it's a good way to make sure you're not wearing the same dress as your BFF on prom night!
