Sydney Curpenski

Journalism 1

3/2/18

Prom shopping is either a luxury or a stress filled mess depending on what type of person you are. Finding the perfect dress can be a lot of pressure, especially when everyone around you is posting pictures of their expensive gowns. Just keep in mind, you can look beautiful without spending thousands of dollars as long as you stick to your budget and follow keys style rules.

Let’s start with finding the perfect prom dress, keeping in mind your body shape and desired look. If you have a skinnier frame, go with something detailed but slim fit. You do not want to drown in your gown. For my bigger girls out there, or someone with a bit of a stomach, try a ball gown style with a tight fitted bodice to emphasize the smallest part of your body. Those with a muscular build will benefit from a mermaid style, which has the tendency to slim the figure and emphasize curves. These are just some suggestions, but ultimately you must buy what you feel most COMFORTABLE in.

Budget is a massive issue for many girls, including myself. You go to all of these fancy boutiques but everything you pick up is $700+. If you do not have the dough to fork over for one dress, opt for a cheaper option. Switch up where you shop so that your target budget is more realistic. Being frugal does not mean lowering your dress expectations. Try for a high end department store, like Lord and Taylor or Macy’s. Clearance is the best option to score a high end gown for a fraction of the costs.

Once you find your dress you will feel a weight lifted off of your shoulders, but the pressure is not totally gone. Once the dress part of the equation is all set you still have hair, nails, and makeup to think about. Take this process step by step so you aren’t overwhelmed when you should be having the time of your life planning for such a memorable event.

Hair is so important in the prom set up. You should base your hairstyle on the type of dress you have purchased. Something with a high neck should almost always be paired with an updo. You NEVER want to have your hair take away from your dress, especially after spending that huge chunk of change. If you have selected a simpler dress, maybe try for a half-up-half-down look. This will give you the best of both worlds. Lastly, make sure to schedule your hair appointment very far in advance. If not you should expect to be doing your hair yourself this year.

Lastly, nails and makeup complete the look for a successful prom night. For nails there are a couple of options. You can match your nails perfectly to your dress. If you are unsure about the color, chose a simple french manicure. You can never go wrong with something on the simple side of things. Keep makeup to a minimum as well. Never have a bold eye AND lip. Pick one or the other and go light with everything else. Fake eyelashes give a big pop in all pictures. Make sure your eyeshadow does not overpower the look.

With these few tips and tricks you are now on your way to prom preparations. Just remember that it is only one night of your life, SO DON’T STRESS IT. As long as you feel comfortable in your own skin you will look beautiful on prom night. Worrying about it will only put a damper on the experience and ruin your day. Staying calm and patient through every prom step is the key to maintaining your sanity and getting through prom season.