Prom is an exciting occasion that many people look forward to, but there are lots of things to consider when you’re preparing for the big night.

Getting ready for prom can be stressful, but there is lots to look forward to, and doing things like shopping for your dream prom dress can even bring extra fun to the event. If you’re stuck on your prom prep, we’ll give you the low-down in the following event guide.

What Makes Prom So Special?

Prom is at the end of the school year, after a long and tiresome exam season. It’s a special occasion because you are all letting off steam, but since it’s at the end of high school, it also signifies the end of an era.

Many people see prom as the beginning of adulthood. Whether you’re heading to college, you’ve secured a job, you’re starting an internship, or you’re on a different path, prom is one of the last events you have as a high schooler.

What Should I Wear for Prom?

Why Prom is the Door to the Future

The thing about prom is that it’s your last formal hurrah as a high schooler, so you should wear something that makes you feel confident and is unmistakably you.

If your prom has a theme, it can be a good starting point for figuring out your prom look. However, if the theme doesn’t really resonate with you, you can either give it a subtle nod with your accessories or you can just go with whichever outfit makes you feel the best. Your prom is about you first and foremost; don’t feel pressured by anyone to wear something you dislike.

Many people take prom as an excuse to wear a full-on princess ball gown. Sleek and sophisticated evening gowns like the one pictured are another classic option, and dress alternatives like jumpsuits and two-piece gowns are gaining popularity. No matter what you love wearing, there are tons of options that will make you feel like royalty.

When you start searching for your prom look, do make sure to look at the event’s dress code and keep it in mind. Also think about whether or not you plan on dancing the night away, and plan accordingly for both your shoes and the range of motion your dress offers.

What Style of Prom Dress Do You Prefer?

Are you a girl who wants to go all out with a full-on ballgown? That’s cool, as the flowing, classic look is in right now, and there are some great designs out there. This is a sort of dress for a one-off occasion, a real ‘look at me’ garment, and one that will wow your friends. Choose from traditional full-length ballgowns or slim, body-hugging designs that are more modern, and you’ll find one that suits you down to the ground.

Perhaps you’re someone who prefers a shorter prom dress, and there are many great styles to choose from with this type of dress. The classic and chic little black dress is a go-to choice for many girls as it can be worn just about anywhere, but be aware that brightly colored and metallic, tight ruched dresses are in this year, and if you want to go down that route, you’ll be setting the bar for others to match.

The baby doll look can be a great choice for a prom, but you might want to be less exposed! There are some simply styled and very elegant dresses that are modest yet engaging, and they come in a range of materials and colors, and from some great designers. Take your time choosing your style, and then follow out tips below to get the best dress for your big night.

Tips on Choosing a Prom Dress

This isn’t any dress we’re talking about: it’s your prom dress, and that’s something pretty special. Here are a few tips for choosing the right dress, once you’ve decided upon a style:

– Set a budget and stick to it. You don’t have to spend a massive amount to get a beautiful and stylish prom dress. There are many out there that are surprisingly affordable and of great quality, so decide what you’re willing to spend and start a shortlist.

– Don’t be afraid to change your mind. If you’re buying online or at a high street store, you always have the option to decide that, for example, the short purple dress you chose is not actually the right one for you. Take it back, and choose a different one.

– Don’t forget comfort. You want to wear a dress you feel comfortable in, both in terms of styling and in practical ways. Think about the temperature, how much you’ll be dancing, and what kind of materials feel good to you. The better you feel, the more fun you’ll have!

– Be you, not someone else. Buy a dress that is you, that is your preferred style, no matter what peer pressure is telling you. Everyone might be going down the sparkly finish route, and you want a simple black dress. That’s cool; do it – it’s who you are.

What Else Do I Need to Plan For Prom?

Getting ready for prom isn’t just about your outfit. Here’s a quick list of things to think about alongside your dress search:

• If you’re going with a date (or with a friend or two) have a talk about coordinating corsages and/or boutonnieres. Get your request to your florist as soon as you know your color scheme, as appointments can fill up.
• Decide if you’re getting ready with friends or at your own house, and secure transportation to and from prom. This is a good time to talk with your friends about post-prom plans too.
• Book any professional appointments you’ll need, whether that’s hair, makeup, or fittings.
• Buy your tickets! If you plan on bringing a guest who doesn’t go to your school, see about any paperwork that needs to be turned in to your school’s office and get it submitted quickly so it’s one less thing to worry about.
• Don’t forget about hair, makeup, and shoes. When you’re building your prom outfit budget, remember to include these expenses.
• Break in your shoes ahead of time so they don’t hurt your feet. Heel pads will also help you on the dance floor.
• Do a trial run of you full look – outfit, shoes, hair, makeup, and accessories – to make sure everything works how you want it, and tweak accordingly. If you’re getting your hair and makeup professionally done, you can go with an approximation of what you’re envisioning.
  
• If you’re staying with someone overnight, decide what you’re packing in your overnight bag and make a list. That way, you don’t have to gather your essentials in a frenzy the day of.

How to Enjoy Your Prom

Finally, a few words on how to enjoy your prom. The most important thing to remember is don’t go with fixed expectations as you will get stressed. Simply approach it as a fun night out, but a special one. Try and relax and enjoy an evening with your friends.

This is a big step you are taking, so make it an enjoyable one!