It’s that time of the year again where the areas adolescents are buzzing around town trying to secure the perfect look for the biggest night of their lives…prom. The evening is somewhat a rite of passage for most – curfews are extended, luxury cars are driven, and the swag is to the max for one night of fun that creates lifelong memories. This prom season, we enlisted the help of Boutique Calla Lilly to showcase some of the hottest trends of the year.
Boutique Calla Lilly is the area’s premier formal wear retailer. It offers an array of high-end prom, party and cocktail dresses. Owned and operated by a daughter and mother team, Dalila Spencer, and Loretta Waheed, “Calla Lilly” has gone from being a part-time interest to a lucrative business for the two.
“We are known for our over-the-top style and personalized customer service,” said Spencer. “Our labor of love has turned into our life’s passion.”
Tips for the perfect prom look
Stay on trend
To be on trend during prom is the most important factor in finding a dress. Too often do we see those tragic, “Prom Gone Wild” pictures of girls, and guys as well, looking like they were extras in the blackbuster film, “BAPS.”
Finding an elegant, timeless, yet trendy dress is the key to prom perfection. Dresses with sweetheart necklines, and ornate but elegant bedazzling (sequins, crystals, or rhinestones) are hot this season. And opting for a cupcake dress rather than a long gown is a sure fire way to ensure that the overall look is youthful, fun, and still tasteful.
Be mindful of color
Many times people forget how much color plays into picking the perfect prom look. Long gone are the days of being “matchy matchy” with a date. Today, having more complementary colors is the way to make prom looks unforgettable instead of regretful. Nude colors are all the rage for the spring season, and that goes for prom as well. Nude can complement any prom theme as well as most types of tuxedos that dates will have. But if you happen to be like me, and enjoy a pop of color, then pastels are also big this season. As long as the color that is chosen is not worn from head to toe, the look will be a success.
Embrace the bling
“The more bling the better” is the motto I live by when it comes to dressing for any formal occasion. And prom is no exception. Incorporating the bling factor is a must when it comes to finalizing your look. But be careful to avoid a “bling overload” with accessories. Opt instead for the more ornate gowns that can be accompanied by one or two complimentary shiny pieces. For instance, if the dress is strapless, opt for either an ornate earring or a statement neck piece. If the dress has straps, it’s safe to either wear a blinged bracelet or cuff, or a cocktail ring.
Keep hair and makeup essentials in mind
Hair and makeup are just as important as the prom dress. There are so many hair and makeup options and there are no limitations to either. Once the dress is chosen, consulting your hair and makeup professional is the best way to optimize the whole prom look. If one opts for a more fun, playful party dress instead of a more traditional gown, don’t be afraid of keeping the hair down with curls or waves. Not being afraid to rock short, cropped styles is a surefire way to be sure to stand out in the crowd of up-dos. Makeup choices should coincide with the overall look. Opting for softer tones that will still look youthful is the best way to go. The worst thing to do is to go for that “Real Housewife of Atlanta” heavy glaze when everyone else is keeping it light and looks 17.
For more information about prom fashion, like Danie Rae, Style Broker on Facebook at www.facebook.com/brokerofstyle.
Wardrobe provided by Boutique Calla Lilly, 6195 Delmar (Loop), 314.367.6353
Hours: Mon – Fri 11-7, Sat 10 -5, Sun 12-4.
A special thanks to the Gateway Classic Sports Foundation. For more information on their upcoming activities contact www.gatewayclassic.org
