Sweep-skirted ball gowns and slinky one-piece dresses will still be taking their turns on the dance floor this spring, but the trendiest prom ensembles are going to pieces. Long skirts are being shown with sweater sets, halter tops, tube styles and camisoles.
"Separates are the new trend this year," says Roz Pactor, vice president and fashion director at Foley's in Denver. "Tops with 'hanky' hems, sweaters, halter necklines, camisoles and tube tops look young and pretty."
Sometimes the pieces match and are sold together as a set. Other times they are offered as separates, which gives the customer the option of picking which top and skirt will flatter her figure and suit her style.
"We have some knock-out two-piece dresses from companies like Rampage," says Beverly Carpenter, director of special events at Dillard's in Denver.
Carpenter and other fashion experts say that spring is also a season for color in prom wear. Basic black is being passed over for pastels in pink, peach, yellow, green, blue and lavender, as well as vivid shades of aquamarine, coral, pink and red.
Fabrics include satin, crepe, silk taffeta, organza and tulle, and many synthetics that look like the more expensive materials. Beading, floral embroidery and appliques add a feminine accent. Some dresses have matching stoles. Crocheted wraps, silk scarves and beaded sweaters are other coverup options.
"There's a feeling of being feminine and soft," Carpenter says of the silhouettes as well as the colors and fabrics. Many dresses are strapless, or feature deep V-backs.
While the prom used to be a once-in-a-lifetime event for a high school girl, now there are many dances to choose from, and a variety of dress codes.
"It's not an exclusive experience of seniors," says Sara Fiedelholtz, publishing director of a new magazine, teenStyle. "There are junior and senior proms, homecoming dances and other occasions during the year.
"You're seeing much more acceptability of nontraditional looks," she says. "It's okay if you want to wear a short dress. There's a look for every personality."
For some young women, prom is all about feeling grown-up. "Last year I wore a ballgown," said Lauren Hughes, 18, a high-school senior.
"This year I want something that is more sophisticated, but fun. I want a dress that's formfitting and has a cute back and slits."
Hughes says she'll spend between $100 and $200 on a prom dress and hopes her choice will make her stand out.
High-school junior Christian Holmes, 17, also wants to shine, rather than blend in with the crowd. "I want something sparkly and in rich colors," she said.
Showing up in a dress that several others are wearing is a universal fear among promgoers.
"Some girls will special-order their dresses so they will be different," says Lindsay Horn, 17, a high-school senior. What she's in search of is a dress that's simple and "not frilly."
She's willing to spend up to $200, and like many prom-goers, will ask for her parents' help in paying for her gown.
© 1999 Scripps Howard News Service.All Rights Reserved.
