Prom Preparation is Key

Prom season will be here before you know it and you will definitely want to be the bell of the ball. SAT scores, college essays, senior dues and your mind is probably spinning into overdrive. Take a deep breath and think about how you want to look for the big day. Prom is a big deal and you want to be as unique as possible. You don’t want to buy the same dress that ten other girls will show up wearing. So start with these steps:

*Budget* - You know how parents can sometimes be when they’re paying for stuff. Tell them this is a once in a lifetime experience. Decide how much you or your parents are willing to spend on a dress, shoes and other accessories. Shop for dresses and accessories in your budget, and make the best of it. If you, or your date, are working to pay for everything yourselves estimate how much things will be. If you plan on riding in a limo or a party bus with twenty other people, then make sure you know how much to put in.

First: Pick a color – What color do you see yourself and your date wearing? Are you going with the classic prom colors such as pink, violet, or blue or are you going to step out of the norm and choose something totally different? The great thing about proms is there are no color rules. You can wear black or neon orange and it doesn’t matter. Have fun and forget the rules because it’s your dress and you only experience your senior prom once!

Second: Pick a style or trend – Lace, chiffon, sequins and ruffles are all hot trends from the Prom 2013 runways. Ever since Kate Middleton wore her lace wedding gown there’s been a major demand for it. Lace is sexy and elegant, but may not be comfortable to everyone. Chiffon makes anyone appear as though they are floating on air; as if your movement requires no energy. Chiffon adds a touch of grace making for a flirty, romantic look. Sequins are always a great option. Sequins and beading also add a fun, yet classic feel to the dress. Plus, they’re eye-catching and will help you stand out in the crowd. Last but not least are ruffles. Ruffles are making a huge comeback and for Prom 2013 they’re essential for an ultra-feminine look. They look great on ball gowns and cocktail gowns. These trends are undeniably hot for the 2013 prom season!

Third: Find a dress – Never pick the first dress you try on unless you’re absolutely sure. Take your time and don’t rush because when the night comes you don’t want to look at your dress and feel disappointed. Also, consider how the dress makes you feel. If when you put it on, you’re smiling and glowing and you feel like the only girl in the world then go with it. Emotions play a major role in choosing prom and wedding dresses.

Fourth: Accessorize – Make sure your accessories adorn your dress and do not overshadow it. You want jewelry that makes a statement but it must go with your dress or your entire outfit/presentation will be off.

Fifth: Find a date (if you don’t already have one) – Make sure whomever you choose, they are responsible and that you trust them. Also, remind them to get you a corsage.

Lastly, decide what you all are going to do after the prom: after-party, hotel, restaurant or straight back home.

Whatever you choose, have fun and enjoy the night!