How to Buy a Prom Dress That Will Turn Heads

Your mission: To find a magnificent prom dress that will make you feel like the belle of the ball. It may take some searching, but that perfect prom dress is out there.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Earrings
• Women's Closed-toed Shoes
• Bracelets
• Hair Accessories
• Perfume
• Hosiery
• Evening Handbags
• Prom/ Formal Gowns
• Women's Dress Shoes
• Body Shimmer
• Evening Gloves

1. Begin searching fashion magazines and local stores at least four months prior to the prom.
2. Try on every dress that you see in stores to determine what is in style this year, and to gauge your size.
3. Choose a basic style and color scheme that you like.
4. Ask dress boutiques if they carry catalogs for dresses that are not in stock, but that can be ordered direct from the designer.
5. Consider hiring a seamstress to create a one-of-a-kind gown for you. Purchase the fabric yourself, then work with the seamstress to develop the perfect design for your body type.
6. Look online. A growing number of Web sites feature virtual fitting rooms, and a seemingly endless supply of dresses and gowns, most of which can be shipped straight to your front door.

Tips & Warnings

• Check outlet stores and upscale thrift shops, many of which carry designer dresses at a fraction of the retail cost.
• Do not fall into the trap of purchasing a dress that is too small, with the intent to lose weight prior to the prom. Buy something that fits you now, and that makes you feel like a real prom queen.