Shopping for the Perfect Prom Dress

Alright Ladies. That hottie that you've had your eye on all semester finally got the nerve to ask you to the prom. Now it's time to find the PERFECT DRESS, one which will make all the girls wish they WERE you and all the guys wish they were WITH you.

For many of you, going to the prom will be one of the highlights of your high school years and a night that you will remember for years to come.

Like a bride on her wedding day, every girl wants to have all eyes on her on this special night. Choosing the right dress is definitely the most important decision, for it will be the basis of your entire look.

10 tips for choosing the perfect dress:

1. SHOP EARLY AND SHOP OFTEN. The sooner you start looking, the better. You will have first pick of all the popular styles and won't have to worry about finding the perfect dress, only to discover they don't have your size. You can take your time and have fun, rather than stressing out and grabbing the first dress that fits because you waited until the last minute.

Also, even though there are tons of dresses out there, there's always the chance that someone will buy the same dress as you. It's an unwritten girl rule that the first girl to buy the dress is the one that should get to wear it. If another girl knowingly buys the same dress and refuses to return it, at least you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you choose it first.

I wouldn't recommend buying a dress on-line, but looking on-line before you hit the stores will give you an idea of what is popular and what stores are most likely to carry the styles of dresses that interest you most. Many sites will also categorize their dresses by body type, which will help you narrow down what you are looking for. Print out pictures of styles that you really like and bring them with you as references.

2. DON'T GO IT ALONE. When it comes to shopping for prom dresses, you should always bring someone along for a objective second opinion. Bring your big sis, your best friend or your mom. They might notice a flaw in a dress that you missed or convince you to try on a great dress that you otherwise would have passed by. Make sure to bring someone along who isn't afraid to be honest. Hearing that you look fabulous in every dress is flattering, but isn't going to help you choose one that is best for you and your body type. Also, many dresses can be a pain in the butt to get on (and off) - a friend can help with difficult zippers, hooks, laces, etc.

3. DON'T BE AFRAID TO ASK FOR HELP. Even if you've brought your own entourage, don't underestimate the knowledge of salespeople. Ask them what styles are popular and what styles would flatter you most. If you don't see your size, make sure to ask if they have more sizes in stock.

4. DETERMINING WHERE TO SHOP. Shopping malls and department stores always have a wide selection of dresses and accessories. However, if you know for a fact that you are going to need your dress altered (for example, if you're very short or have a large bust), it might be a good idea to start your shopping at a specialty store. Salespeople at such stores are usually more than happy to assist you and when you find the dress you like, you can get it fitted on the spot and they will get it altered for you, saving you time and money. If you don't have a lot of cash, look at outlet stores. They usually have a lot of the same dresses for a significantly lower price. If vintage is more your style, check out thrift stores or your mom's closet.

Also, don't be ashamed to borrow a dress. If you're short on cash or just don't want to spend a lot of money on a dress, ask friends or family if you can borrow their dress. Many classic prom dresses never go out of style, so no one will know that you didn't buy it this season. You also won't have to worry about anyone showing up in the same dress. Most girls are more than happy to borrow you their prom dress, because they like to see someone else get some use out of it. They will probably even be flattered that you think they have great style.

5. THINK ABOUT THE TOTAL PACKAGE. The first time you shop for your dress, you may just want to get a feel for what's out there. Try on as many dresses as you can to get an idea what styles and cuts flatter you most. However, by the second shopping trip, you should start thinking about the overall look that you are going for. Bring along a pair of shoes that are the heel length you plan to wear. If you already have jewelry that you know you want to wear, bring that with as well. Wear a strapless bra and a thong so that you aren't distracted by bra straps and panty lines. If you plan on tanning for the big night, go a few times before you start shopping. Colors look drastically different next to different skin tones. You might overlook a great dress because it washes out your pale skin or you might buy a dress that flatters pale skin more so than the bronzed tone that it will actually be seen against.

6. STAY TRUE TO YOURSELF. While you don't want your dress to look last season, don't buy a dress simply because it is trendy. Whether your look is classic and elegant or flirty and fun, stay true to your own personal style. You will feel most comfortable in a dress that suits your personality and says something about who you are.

7. DON'T GET DOWN ON YOURSELF. Unless you have a body fit for a Victoria Secret catalog, shopping for prom dresses can be as traumatic as trying on swimsuits. Many dresses are designed for the perfect, slender hourglass figure and can make you feel like your hips are too big or your bust is too small. Remember that certain styles are better for certain body shapes and that you can always get a dress altered. Fit the dress to the biggest part of you. If you have wide hips, but a tiny waist, you can always have it taken in. Make sure that you find a dress that makes you feel beautiful and comfortable. Your friends and family will also come in handy for moral support.

8. BE CREATIVE. If you want to make sure that no one else has the same dress, shop at vintage or thrift stores for something truly unique. If you have a knack for fashion or sewing, create your own dress. Consider separates. Pair a classic skirt with an unexpected top or play around with color and fabric combinations.

9. DO A DOUBLE TAKE. Try the dress on in different lighting when you get home. We've all had the experience of purchasing clothing that looked fabulous in the fitting room, only to get it home and realize that the color is off or the fabric is see-through. Try everything on once at home while you still have plenty of time to return the dress.

10. DON'T LEAVE IT UP TO HIM (OR HER). Your date's attire will reflect on you. Most guys don't have a clue when it comes to formal wear and will be more than happy to have your help. Bring your dress with when he goes to chose his accent colors so that you can match them as closely as possible. Don't leave it up to him - most guys aren't detail oriented, especially when it comes to clothing, and they won't understand subtle color differences. The same goes for selecting flowers. If your date is of the same gender, the same rules apply. Shop together if possible and decide whether you want your formal wear to contrast or compliment one another.

Most of all, remember to have fun. Getting ready for the prom doesn't have to be a stressful experience. This is one of the few times in your life that many of you will have the opportunity to get all dolled up. Remember this and savor the entire experience.