Searching for that perfect prom dress can be daunting and stressful, yet it doesn’t need to be. It should be a pleasurable time when you can go all out to find something different, or you may perhaps want to wear a dress that will be familiar to you, one that says who you really are. But prom is about looking good, feeling good, and having a fun time. It’s an occasion when you can spend some time with friends, let your hair down, enjoy an evening with your date.

Where do you begin to look for a prom dress? And what are the questions you should ask yourself before you start creating a shortlist? That’s what we want to help you with in this article, so read on for some advice on shopping for your ideal, elegant, and beautiful prom dress.

What Styles Suit You?

Your first task is to understand the style of dress that suits you best. This will be influenced by your body type. Without going into great detail, each of us is a different shape, and some dresses simply do not look right on certain body types. If you have an athletic body, for example, a slender frame, then you’ll be right at home in a tight, sleek, ballgown. If you are all curves in the hips and chest then you may want to look for a more flattering style. You will know the type for you, so start looking for that style.

What Sort of Dress are You Happy Wearing?

Now imagine yourself in the dress you are looking at: are you happy wearing it? Or are you constantly pulling the skirt down or the top up? It’s easy to buy a dress and then when you wear it, realise it’s not what you really wanted. This is why we suggest you always try a dress on and ensure you are happy with the way it feels, and also that it has the right shape, collar, sleeves and so on for you. This ties in neatly with our next point.

Are You the Life of the Party or a Quiet Girl?

Some of us like to get out there and party, while others are the quiet type who like to enjoy without getting in the limelight. Which one are you? Your personality will always influence the dress you choose to wear, and if you’re not one for being over-exuberant and showy, you might want to dress down while still looking super stylish. Think high-necked and long skirts, if that gives you the comfort levels you are looking for, and you should find something that suits you. This is a point where you also need to think about the color you choose, so let’s talk some more about that.

What Colors do You Enjoy Wearing?

Color is a personal thing when it comes to fashion, and there are some that are always popular where prom dresses are concerned. Red, for example, is a great choice if you want to be the one who lights up the room. Black, on the other hand, can work both ways – sleek and sexy, or reserved and demure. Yet there is a trend that is very much in vogue right now, and that’s the metallic look. Silver, sparkling dresses are the look for the season, perhaps with an added touch of colour in there to give it a lift. But this is not a look that is for everyone, so it pays to try it out and see what you think.

Demure or Daring?

Back to who you are briefly, and ask yourself this question: do you want to show off those curves, display some leg, give it a daring touch that gets you looks and admiration? Or are you more of the girl next door, who simply wants to dress nicely and enjoy the party? This is perhaps the most important question of all, as if you go over the top you need to be ready for the attention you get. Finally, a point that makes thinks far easier.

Is there a Theme?

Many proms now come with a theme attached – think ‘Under the Sea’ or ‘In the Sky’ as common examples – which narrows down your color choice, and that’s not a bad thing. If there is a theme, talk to your friends and perhaps come up with a group idea for added fun.

We hope that we’ve given you some ideas so start looking now, and we recommend you begin by searching online stores for inspiration.