If you’re finishing school or sixth form, or attending a formal event at university, then you’ll no doubt want a prom dress that really looks the part. Your classmates might go to their local designer store for an off-the-shelf ball gown, but what if you’re looking for something a bit different? Something that’s really ‘you’? Something that nobody else is likely to have?
Do you have to make a prom dress on your own, or could you choose something completely different and go against the grain? Here are a few ways to avoid looking like everyone else, whilst still looking your best on prom night:
Mix and Match Your Patterns
A lot of prom dresses are surprisingly plain and simple, and are mono-colour without detailed designs. Buy a patterned prom dress or party dress and you’re sure to stand out. You can either buy a prom dress with a single repeated pattern, or one that mixes a variety of different patterns and designs like the prom dresses and party dresses from Ginger Fizz.
Choose a Shorter Length Dress
Full-length prom dresses have their place, but if you want an alternative prom dress then they’re probably not your style. Knee-length and thigh-length dresses provide you with a lot more options, and a chance to show off your shoes. Want to turn up in a prom dress and a pair of Converse shoes? Nobody’s stopping you! Shorter prom dresses come in a wide range of styles, which means that you’ll have no trouble finding something that flatters your figure.
Go Vintage
Vintage dresses are ideal for parties and proms. If you’re creative enough and brave enough to wear a dress in a style more than three decades old, then you’ll find that you’re flattered by laces, bows and ribbons that add a ‘classic’ look.
Wear Something Dark
Proms aren’t all about pretty pastel colours and sparkling jewels. In fact, there’s nothing wrong with showing up in something darker. How about a gorgeous designer dresses from Worn By, with prints and patterns for that rock star look?
Or Don’t Wear a Dress?
As much as people talk about find their perfect prom dress or party dress, they’re not the only option. In fact, more and more people are finding the confidence to ditch the dress and attend wearing a suit, or something a little more casual. Vila blazers are perfect accompaniments to a skirt or pair of trousers, and with the right accessories you can make any outfit look prom-ready.
Your prom night might be one of the most glamorous nights of your life, but to make an impression you’ll want to stand out from the crowd. Instead of visiting high street stores packed full with every other student fighting over the same dress at the same high price, why not find a party style of your own?
When you look back at your prom photograph, do you really want to blend with everyone else? Make sure that your outfit is one that you’ll love on the night, and you might even find that it becomes a wardrobe staple for other important events.
Sarah Mitchell is a fashion writer and a big fan of the prom dress.
