Knowing your body type and what works with it can make the difference between a prom night fashion do and an unforgettable don't.
Alicia Richmond, a Utah wardrobe stylist, said it's all about framing yourself.
"You want all the attention to be drawn to the face." she said. "All the accessories and the hair to enhance who you are."
When looking for a dress, go for something that will balance your shoulder-to-hip ratio and accentuate the waist.
And if you notice the dress before you notice yourself, the style might be too over the top, she said. In that case, tone it down.
"You want it all to work in harmony and balance," Richmond said.
Five Utah high school students were up for the quest to find the right prom dress for their body types, with Richmond as their fashion consultant.
Their makeup was done by staff from the Lanc me counter at Dillard's at the South Towne Mall. Hair came compliments of Heather Wermuth at Sanctuary Day Spa, also at the mall. Dresses, shoes and accessories were provided by Dillard's and Macy's.
Brittany Baxter, 18, Draper
* She has a balanced shoulder-to-hip line. Richmond recommends a soft drape, slim dress that follows the curves of her body.
* Because she is full in the bust, a darker color works best on the top.
* Avoid anything too full and anything that has a square or boxy shape. Stay away from a lot of color or any detail, such as sequens, that will look top heavy. Strapless or halter style dresses also should be avoided.
Kelsey Carrillo, 18, Sandy
* When you are petite, you have to be particularly careful to make sure the dress fits. If the dress is too big, it will make you look like a little girl playing dress up.
* Make sure the dress follows the natural curves of your body. Look for styles fitted through the bodice, with a plain neckline. Too many embellishments will distract looks from you.
* Avoid long dresses that will make you look shorter.
Alyssa Longmore, 17, Draper
* A two-piece outfit is a great option. It works for those who are a different size on top and bottom.
* This outfit helps balance the shoulder-to-hip ratio and define her waist. The wrap-shirt style is minimizing and slimming and creates a nice curve on the waist, which is balanced with the fullness of the skirt.
* Go for midcalf length or shorter. Avoid anything that clings to the middle and lacks a pattern.
Amanda Swofford, 15, Saratoga
* The cap sleeves and drape through the torso help de-emphasize her top.
* The asymmetrical skirt helps balance her top-to-bottom ratio. Go with more fluidity at the bottom.
* Avoid straight and fitted skirts.
Carli Coleman, 15, Draper
* With a straight body, you want to build some curves and shape. The ruching on the side gives her a curvy look. With her height, she can wear long dresses.
* Mixing fabrics on the dress creates a harmony with the body.
* Avoid dresses with straight lines.
Trends for this prom season
* Colors: You'll see pinks, reds, greens. Bright colors are making a comeback along with dip dye and tulle dress. Popular styles include dresses with short, full skirts or long, sleek and elegant silhouettes.
* Hair: Stylists suggest a loose wave that gives the appearance of not being too done. You don't want to look over done. Sleek, straight pull back looks are also in.
* Shoes: A lot of metallics. The shoes do not have to match the dress.
* Guys: This season the color for tuxes is deep chocolate brown.
- Source: Alicia Richmond wardrobe stylist

