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While scouring most dress shops, it’s frustrating to see the same thing year after year: neon coloured dresses with overly beaded bodices and poofy skirts. On prom night, you want to look good, not like you can direct air traffic with your dress. Avoid these prom-strosities and opt for these classic trends instead:
Lace
I’m not going to lie, I absolutely love lace — lace shorts, skirts, tops and even dresses! Lace can cover you up and show just enough skin, making you look both edgy and sweet. Don’t limit yourself to the simple black and white either. Find eye-popping reds, or even pastels layered underneath.
Inspiration: Jennifer Lawrence in scarlet lace Marchesa at a premiere for The Hunger Games.
Metallics
Metallics have been in for a while now and with good reason. They can add a rock and roll flare to any formal look with its sheen and flash. Keep your look clean and simple by pairing your dress with simple makeup. You don’t want to over do it. If you’re looking for a more subtle look, try pairing up a simple dress with some statement jewelry.
Inspiration: Selena Gomez in Dolce and Gabbana at the 2012 Vanity Fair Oscar party.
Bright colours
While black might seem like a safe choice, be more adventurous and look for bright colours. Reds and corals were a hit during this year’s awards season. Wearing neon is a risky fashion decision for such a special occasion (didn’t you read my intro?) so if you go for this look, avoid taffeta and excessive beading. For bright colours, go for a simple silhouette to get the right effect. Better yet, find a dress with a neon accent.
Inspiration: Michelle Williams in Louis Vuitton at the 2012 Oscars.
Peplum dresses
This silhouette has been all over the red carpets and in fashion magazines. This kind of dress fits close to the body but also provides some serious curves. The cut is simple and so easy to wear that anyone can rock it.
Inspiration: Solange Knowles in Rachel Roy at the MET ball.
Bold lips
A red lip always looks stunning with a clean face. This look is not only elegant, but also a timesaver. Swipe on some foundation, a tiny bit of blush and a winged eyeliner with your red lip to get that old Hollywood glam.
Inspiration: Rooney Mara at the 2012 Oscars.
For the risk takers: a suit
Get in on the menswear action and suit up. There’s nothing sexier or cooler than a girl who can rock a suit better than any leading man out there (looking at you, Zac Efron).
Inspiration: Lily Collins in Dolce and Gabbana at the Cartier party.
Most importantly, remember to pick something that is comfortable for you! Find shapes and colours that work with your body type and skin tone. Also, if you’re in-between sizes, always size up. It’s easier to have a dress taken in than it is to let it out. My rule of thumb is one trend at a time as simple is usually better, but don’t afraid to be daring!
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