Prom time is almost here and choosing from so many styles and shapes of prom dresses isn’t easy. It takes time and patience to try on all those prom dresses, hoping to find just the right dress for your special evening. You should first find a prom dress that flatters your body type, or silhouette. Use the guide below to find out what type of body shape you have and which prom dress will best complement your shape.

Determining Your Body Shape

It’s important to determine your body shape before you start shopping for prom gowns. Once you know which types of prom dresses will best suit you, you won’t waist time trying on those that won’t.

Are you Thin and Tall?

Here’s a way to tell: Your body is straight and slender, has few or no curves, and your bust is average in size. Your height is 5′ 6″ or taller. If you meet these criteria, you’ll want to buy a prom dress style that adds curves, shows off your long legs, flows gracefully to reveal your slim silhouette, and adds fullness to your chest.

Try on dresses with several different neckline styles including v-neck or an open neckline to see which looks best. Also, dare to try a dress with a cutout back. Some prom dress styles to consider are empire, sheath, ball gown, and a-line.

Are you Petite?

If you are 5′ 3″ or shorter with a small build and an average sized bust, you’ll want a dress to complement the petite such as an empire, sheath or a-line prom gown. With a slit, you can make your legs appear longer. Or, you can look much taller by wearing a dress with a short hemline. The hemline might be ruffled, handkerchief, hi/low, or asymmetrical – whichever best suits you. There are also a-line and empire styles to take emphasis off your waistline if you are short-waisted. Your neckline could be sweetheart, halter, or v-shape.

Do you have an Hourglass, Pear, or Apple Shape?

With an hourglass shape, you are curvy with a medium-to-large sized bust. Your bottom is rounded and you have curvy hips. You can show off the curves with a sheath dress or de-emphasize them somewhat with a ball gown or a-line dress. To place more emphasis on the upper portion of your body, choose a dress with an embellished neckline.
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Those of us who grew up as plus-size girls may have less than fond memories of proms, homecoming dances, or even our quinceanera. Back in our day, self-esteem and body image issues were compounded by the sheer lack of plus-size prom dresses and formal eveningwear. Plus-size fashion was an oxymoron, and most of the clothing that was available simply wasn’t appropriate for formal occasions.

Thankfully, times have changed. Not only are curvy girls staking their rightful claims on the prom and homecoming scenes, but wonderfully fashionable prom dresses are available in all sizes. If you’re a plus-size girl, there’s no need to be a wallflower. You can dazzle and shine at your special event alongside your friends.

Choosing Plus-Size Prom Dresses

It’s never too soon to start shopping for prom dresses. When you do, be sure to check out two of the best plus-size lines: Calito and Igigi. If you’re looking for a long formal, first think about the bodice. Do you want wide straps, spaghetti straps, or a strapless formal? Would you prefer that the bodice be fitted or more flowing? (Remember, don’t be afraid to show your curves!)

Next, think about the skirt. Do you want a long formal where the hem reaches almost to the floor, or do you want something more playful, like a handkerchief hem or an asymmetrical hem? Then, consider your fabrication options. A satin crepe will hug your body and show your curves to their best advantage, an organdy will make you feel ultra-feminine, and a shimmer fabric will have you sparkling inside and out.
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For many girls, prom night is the most important event of their high school years. It’s not an understatement to say that you’ll remember your prom night for the rest of your life. Given its prominence during high school and beyond, it’s crucial that you wear a dress that makes you feel and look your best.

Before You Start

Before you even start shopping for prom dresses, spend some time thinking about your personal style. If you like to blend in with the crowd, you probably won’t be comfortable in show-stopping bright red pageant dresses. On the other hand, if you like the spotlight, you may want to shy away from formal dresses that are reminiscent of a bridesmaid’s gown.

Keep in mind, though, that prom is a great opportunity to take a step outside your comfort zone. You’re probably not accustomed to wearing evening dresses, so all prom dresses will seem a bit foreign to you. If you’ve always harbored a fantasy of being a storybook princess, a prom dress can make you feel like royalty. Likewise, if you’ve always wanted to showcase your inner sultry siren, beaded cocktail dresses will let you dip your toes into those waters.

See What’s Available

Once you’ve thought about your personal style, go online to a site that specializes in prom dresses and see what’s available. You’ll likely find evening dresses by designers like Sherri Hill, Jovani, Nightline, Faviana, and many more. Spend time considering the type of dress that will make you feel great and let you shine on your special night. Are you comfortable with strapless gowns, or do you prefer straps? Do you like the shimmer of sequins and beading, or the rustle of tulle? Do you want to show skin and go with a backless gown or one that shows off your midriff, or are you more comfortable with a solid bodice? Are you bold enough for a thigh-high slit, or do you want a long dress with a train?
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Prom dresses are gorgeous and glamorous, but they can also be very uncomfortable. An uncomfortable prom dress can ruin your formal evening. That’s why you should consider not only the style and beauty of your eveningwear, but also the comfort level. Beauty doesn’t have to be painful. Fashion doesn’t have to ruin the most magical night of your high school life. Use the guide below to look elegant and feel great on your prom night.

Prom Dresses for Comfort

When comparing prom dresses either online or at a formal eveningwear shop, consider the material of the dress, especially for the areas of your body where it needs to give a little. Prom dresses made of stretchy material in certain areas allow you to be comfortable and flexible while still keeping in fashion.

Ask these Questions about any Prom Dress You’re Considering:

*When you bend over to pick something up, sit or twist and turn while dancing, does the dress give in areas where needed?

*When you sit to dine and need to move your arms freely, will the prom dress be comfortable?

*Does the material breathe so you won’t get too hot during the prom or dinner?

If shopping for your prom clothing online, ask questions about the material and if it gives and breathes for ultimate comfort. Order your prom dress far enough in advance so you’ll have time to try it on and return it if you absolutely don’t like it.
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