It's prom time, and you finally have the opportunity to dazzle your date and friends with an amazing prom dress. But there are so many styles of prom dresses that it may not be so easy to find that perfect dress. Don't despair. Use this quick style guide to narrow your choices.
Popular Prom Dress Styles and Cuts
Some prom dress styles are new while others have been around for many, many years. Here are some timeless styles that are popular year after year. Empire prom dresses are cut with a high waistline, usually starting just beneath the bust, with a long, straight skirt that hangs from the waistline. This style works great with a pear-like figure, or for those with a thick waist. It also adds the appearance of more height for petite girls.
The sheath design slims the figure from the shoulders to the hemline. It hugs and outlines the body's silhouette and is popular with sleeveless cheap prom dresses. Sheath dresses are recommended for tall, thin persons. A gown that looks great on anyone with large hips and thighs is the A-line prom dress. It is designed with a fitted bodice that flares out into a full skirt from the waist down. The waist is seamless. A-line is also called "princess" cut.
The high-low gown is long in the back and shorter in the front, usually right above the knees. It's great for long legs and the hourglass type figure. The tea-length dress may be sleeveless or may come with sleeves and have a fitted bodice, but usually only comes to just below the knees. It's a simple, flirty style that shows off the calves - great for tall, thin figures!
A tulle skirt or bouffant gown features a puffed-out skirt made of sheer rayon or silk materials. Its flared skirt works great for hiding heavy legs. The ball gown is another elegant style that has a full skirt that starts at the waist and is floor-length.
