CLEVELAND, Ohio - Plenty of young women have been feverishly shopping for prom dresses since the second the styles hit the stores.
So now is the perfect time to have a look at the trends and options, especially since many of the looks have started to go on sale. Seems as if keeping the costs down this year is a welcome change to tradition.
Big name designers like Vera Wang are providing prom dress options in several varieties for under $200. The White by Vera Wang collection is available at David's Bridal. Many of the styles are available in sizes 0 to 26. The collection is inspired by old Hollywood glamour in deep jewel tones and beaded details that are on trend this season.
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As for the other trends, we have the award shows' red carpets to thank for the shapes, colors and details of this prom season. There's a little bit of everything out there. There are short metallic skater dresses, one-shoulder column dresses and full print ball gowns, just to scratch the surface.
From fit and flare styles, tiered tulle to cutouts and two-piece ensembles, there seem to be more options than ever. And, more places to shop.
Emma Weyn, a senior at Hathaway Brown, says that she's less into the bling of this year's looks. She's been browsing online at Revolve Clothing (revolveclothing.com) for a short fit and flare dress in a classic and simple fabric.
"All of my friends are going with short dresses this year," she said. Last year, she did Rent the Runway. For $75 she wore a beautiful, designer gown, shoved it in the prepaid envelope and sent it back the next day. They even provide the same dress in a second size, just in case, for no additional charge.
Rocky River mom Sue Wilhelm took her daughter Marissa King around town on a recent weekend. "Bling and neon are everywhere," she said. "I was surprised to see many of the same dresses at Dillard's and Macy's, but most were around $100."
Wilhelm bought two dresses for Marissa to choose between. She was happy to report further savings as she used a Macy's coupon. The hunt may not be over -- many of Marissa's friends are buying online this year. "It's too easy to keep looking," says Wilhelm.
Here are a few of the more apparent trends of this season:
Embellishments: Intricate beading and oversize gem-like stones and crystals are everywhere. Crystals and sparkles show up on detailed bustiers and on full skirts.
Pastels aren't for Easter anymore: We saw this trend on Lupita Nyong'o and many other celebs on the red carpets. Beautiful colors in light spring shades of pink, coral, mint green, blues and yellow are popular this season.
On the flipside: Deep, elegant jewel tone shades are back, too. And the black and white trend has been gaining favor all season, especially now, in dresses. And, like at the Oscars, flesh or nude tones are showing up for prom, along with shades of champagne and ivory.
Fairytale romance: Flirty shapes and lengths add to the fun with fluffy chiffon and skin skimming matte jersey fabrics. Lace is also adding a subtle bit of romance to many dresses.
Watch the hemlines: Dress length is everywhere this season. There are super short flirty styles and to-the-floor hemlines. The newest trend, showing up in everything from T-shirts to sweaters, is the high-low hem. Super short in the front and long in the back is coming in both tiered options and very sheer overlays. It gives a girl a little of everything.
You don't have to be a size 2: Prom is a night for every girl to look and feel her best and it's great to see that there are options for every girl in every size. It's never been easy to find fashion forward styles in plus-sizes, especially for teens, but things are improving. Online stores like Kiyonna, Sydney's Closet and PromGirl offer plus-size selections in many of the hottest trends, as does David's Bridal with several actual stores in town.
Accessorize with Jewels: It's a special night, so a little extra sparkle is in order. Don't break the bank on jewelry, though. You can find options in a wide range of prices at stores all over town and online. Keep in mind, if you wear a giant statement necklace; keep your earring size to a minimum. If you prefer large, dazzling earrings, keep your necklace, if you wear one at all, dainty and elegant.
Handbags: Don't make the critical error of schlepping your everyday handbag to the prom. Every girl needs an evening bag for her touch-up makeup, lipstick and cell phone. You'll use it for the rest of your life, but you don't have to look to Gucci or Chanel. Look for a clutch or small bag that is discreet and complements your look. It doesn't have to cost a fortune.