Finding the perfect prom dress may seem like an unreachable goal if you’re not sure what suits your colouring, figure or personal style. Whether shopping online or trawling the high street, the choice can often be baffling, especially if it’s your first big event. For veteran party-goers, it’s always good to know the key trends to flaunt at this year’s upcoming weddings, cocktail events and birthday parties. Wherever you’re heading, make sure you get there in style with these ideas on how to get started.
Trends from the catwalk
High-school prom or garden party, there’s no doubt that this Spring-Summer season is full of sophisticated, grown-up style when it comes to formal dresses. Gowns seen at recent award ceremonies like the Oscars harked back to a golden age of Hollywood, complete with waved hair and an added dash of sparkle.
Lace material has been a big hit on the red carpet, with high street fashions reflecting this ultra-feminine look in high-collared dresses and dusky tones. The romantic vibe continues with the sweet-heart neckline, an A-list favourite and ever-flattering shape for most figures.
At the other end of the spectrum, long, draped fabrics and sleek, fitted lines have dominated the dress market, with princess-style ball gowns replaced by chic and more practical alternatives. Think Grecian elegance and Grace Kelly-esque glamour and you’ll have an enviable look for the dance floor. If you want to go all out for prom, consider the trend for sequinned and embellished gowns which need no further accessorising to make that big first impression.
Pick your own style
While these up-to-the-minute trends are sure to turn heads on the big night, it’s important to shop with a few things in mind, particularly if you’re looking to buy cheap prom dresses online. Choosing a dress which flatters you is ultimately what will make you shine, not just adhering to the latest fashions.
As a general rule, pear-shaped figures should look for A-line dresses and those with a fitted bodice. Curvy girls can accentuate their waistline and flatter the hips by opting for a high waist and flared skirt, in the style of 50’s prom dresses. If you’re petite, avoid overlong gowns and go for an asymmetric hem (also trending this year) or a side slit to create an illusion of height.
Plan ahead if you find the choice overwhelming and try on a few different styles and shades to see what works best with your shape and colouring. Buying in advance is also advisable, giving yourself a good few weeks to find matching accessories and shoes.
The main thing to remember is to go with your own look and not someone else’s; you’ll stand out from the crowd if you stay true to your own style. Picking the right prom dress might sound stressful but if you do a bit of research and give yourself plenty of time, it can be loads of fun as well.
Carrie Muller writes on fashion and accessories for a number of blogs and print magazines. She’s an avid bargain hunter and enjoys the challenge of finding good web retailers to buy cheap prom dresses online, as well as one-off vintage pieces in and around her local independent stores.