By Cheryl Mattox Berry
It’s that time of year again when mothers and daughters hit the mall in search of the perfect dress for end-of-the-year school dances and prom. Racks of the latest styles in neon colors popped up in stores a few weeks ago. I was probably the only one paying attention to them. For some reason, I still get excited about prom dresses. I love seeing pictures from the big night.
However, I’m always shocked by the dresses some girls choose – and their mothers allow – for these dances and prom. I’ve seen photos of girls in middle school attired in tight-fitting, low-cut dresses. Some high school girls have worn dresses with a high split, backless down to their butt crack, with barely enough material to cover their breasts. It’s enough to make a hooker blush.
Apparently, school officials think so, too, because more schools are implementing a dress code for school dances and prom. I don’t have a problem with that because teens need to be taught what is tasteful and age appropriate. Too often, they see a style worn by a character on a reality show or an actress on the red carpet and want to copy it. They forget that those are grown women wearing those outfits. And, as I’ve said before, every style ain’t for every body.
Guidelines on what to wear in no way infringe on a teen’s individuality or creativity. Some girls view school dances and proms as a night to indulge in whimsy and fantasy. They don’t want to abide by a dress code. Sorry, dress codes abound, not only at school but in the workplace. Schools, like individuals, have a reputation to uphold in the community. Officials want to ensure the safety of students attending these dances, and they don’t want students or the school getting attention for the wrong reasons.
Shopping Tips For Teens
Before you go shopping, peruse magazines and websites to find styles you like. If you don’t find a dress after a couple of trips, maybe you can design one and have it made, which is what my girlfriend’s niece did for her prom. It suited her artsy personality and fit her to a T. The most beautiful dresses are the simple ones that flatter your shape. Gowns that are over-the-top have a cartoonish or costume look to them. Think Lady Gaga or Nicki Minaj. Rather yet, don’t think about them. Other students will laugh behind your back if you wear something inspired by them, and you’ll cringe when you see the pictures a few years from now.
Also, spend some time looking for the right shoes. Stilletos are pretty, but you can barely walk in them let alone dance. Why spend all that money and end up barefoot the whole night. Choose a comfortable shoe with a reasonable heel height.
Keep makeup simple. The Kim Kardashian look – dark eye shadow, thick false lashes and heavy black eyeliner – makes you look like an an owl. Highlight your best feature, but don’t overdo it. Less is more. Test products to make sure you aren’t allergic to them.
Have fun at your dance or prom and take lots of pictures.
Photo: AP/ Lord & Taylor