Every year around prom season, the web gets inundated with fashion advice and a round-up of the newest trends. Soon-to-be-graduates scour forums and blogs for the hottest style tips, excited to put together an unforgettable outfit.
Amidst a sea of ever-changing fashion trends, some styles stand out for their timeless elegance. This list rounds up the classic prom dress styles that are sure to make heads turn as you make an entrance on your big night.
Mermaid Dresses
If you’re looking for a sleek silhouette that accentuates your curves, mermaid dresses are a fabulous option. These dresses are fitted around the bodice and waist and flare out below the knees. Some dresses are also accompanied by a train, adding to the glam factor.
Mermaid dresses are ideal for pear and hourglass body types, as they bring out the figure while balancing the look. These dresses are generally made in fabrics that have a smoothening effect, such as silk, satin, and crepe.
To add a modern flair to your look, you can opt for a two-piece mermaid dress. These feature the great and the skirt separately.
A-Line Dresses
After being popularised by designer Chrisitan Dior in 1955, A-line dresses never left the limelight. This style is still a great choice for prom-goers as they are versatile and complement all body types.
A-line style dresses are fitted at the shoulder and are gradually flared below the bust or waist. This creates a flowing, feminine silhouette that draws attention away from the midsection. If you’re going for a fairy-like vibe, opt for soft fabrics such as tulle, organza, or chiffon. For a more structured, graceful appearance, look for fabrics such as brocade and satin.
Sheath Dresses
Sheath dresses are straight-cut and fit the body closely. They are cut from a single piece of fabric and have no seams at the waist, creating a sleek appearance.
Sheath dresses are a great option for prom as they can be dressed up or down to suit the wearer’s preference.
As they come in a large variety of cuts, sheath dresses can be fitted to any body type. Beauties with a rectangular shape can choose a sheath dress to emphasize their curves.
Empire Waist Dresses
With the resurgence of Y2K styles, empire waist dresses are making a comeback. These dresses have a high waistline that sits right underneath the bust, followed by a flowing skirt. The delicate cut creates the illusion of a chic, lean silhouette.
Choose an empire waist dress for prom to feel like a retro princess. You can also modernize the look by picking out the dress in trending colors or fabrics.
High-Low Dresses
Also known as fishtail dresses, high-low dresses were introduced in the Victorian era. High-low dresses are statement pieces that stand out even on red carpets. They fit seamlessly within the elaborate prom atmosphere, offering a balance of elegance and whimsy.
High-low dresses are crafted with a shorter front hem to show off the legs and a longer hem at the back. The back of the dress can extend from calf-length to full-length, featuring a tail. High-low dresses flatter all body types and are ideal for a dramatic look. Look for high-low dresses in tulle or organza for a lightweight, airy feel.
Off Shoulder Dresses
You can’t go wrong with choosing an off-shoulder dress for prom. A staple in royal fashion from the 1800’s, off-shoulder dresses feature a neckline that sits below the shoulders.
The dress was initially created to allow wearers easier movement and later became a style statement.
Off-shoulder style dresses create a soft, romantic aesthetic, tastefully showcasing the shoulders and collarbones. While the bodice on off-shoulder dresses is usually fitted, the skirt can vary from short and sleek to long and flowing.
The options for accessorizing an off-shoulder dress are endless. You can choose to wear long-tiered earrings or style statement neckpieces.
Ball Gown Dresses
No conversation around prom dresses is complete without mention of ball gowns. Ball gowns are highly formal attire, featuring a fitted bodice and a long voluminous skirt – and according to Sherri Hill, they’re trending this year, making them both a classic and modern choice. The result is a dress that looks straight out of a fairytale.
The skirt of the dress is created using layered tulle or organza to give it body and structure. Fancy fabrics such as taffeta, satin, and silk are also used in these dresses. Ball gowns are great for creating a classic prom look that exudes effortless elegance.
Final Styling Pointers
Navigating the world of prom dresses can almost feel dizzying with the number of options there are to choose from. As you shop for prom, remember to have fun and let your personality shine through your outfit, no matter the prom dress style you settle upon.