You've seen prom dresses and pictures of prom dresses, BUT do you know exactly what types of dresses you are looking at? To make an educated decision about the type of dress you want you first need to know what's out there. Lets review the types of dresses out there and what body types look the best in each. Attention class, it's time for Prom Dresses 101.
A-line
Gown
An A-line gown has a form-fitted bodice that flares out from the natural waist to a full skirt. This type of gown features a seamless waist and may also be called a princess-cut gown. The gently flared style flatters most figure types and is especially useful for disguising large hips and thighs.
Ball Gown
A ball gown has a very full skirt that begins at the waist and proceeds to the floor. The waist is seamed and may be styled in various shapes and designs. The ball gown style visually cuts the body in half and is ideal on average to tall figures.
Bouffant Gown
A bouffant gown is characterized by a sheer, puffed-out skirt often made from stiffened rayon or silk. The skirt of this type of gown is similar in fabric construction (but not necessarily in length) to a ballerina tutu. The flared skirt is perfect for disguising a an apple pear-shaped figure.
Empire Cut
Gown
An empire cut dress has a high waistline beginning just beneath the bust and a long, full skirt that flows straight from this waistline. The empire cut style masks a pear shape or thick waist and creates an illusion of height for short or petite figures.
High-Low Gown
A high-low gown is hemmed long in the back either at the ankles or to the floor and just above the knees in the front. This new style is very trendy. It is perfect for those wanting to show just a little leg without going all out with a short or tea-length dress . It is perfect for showing off a hourglass figure and long legs.
Tea-Length
Gown
A tea-length dress is a gown that is hemmed to end just below the knee. It has a fun, flirty appearance that is perfect for a slightly casual or more relaxed appearance at the prom. This dress style is ideal if you have great calves or if you have a tall, thin figure.
Sheath
Gown
A sheath is a slim dress with little fabric detail that hugs curves and outlines the silhouette of your body. The sheath is perfect for sleeveless styles and tends to show off a well-toned body. Sheath dresses are especially beautiful on tall, thin figures.