Looking for more than just a new dress for prom? Maybe you should consider a new hair color!

Prom is the perfect opportunity to debut yourself as a changed woman. As you descend the stairs to meet your eager date, wouldn't it be lovely to hear a gasp going up from the onlookers as your reveal a whole new gorgeous you? It's like a scene straight out of a romantic comedy - and it can be yours, with a new look for prom.

Now, we're not saying there's anything wrong with your natural hair color. We're just saying, if you've been itching to go with something new, there's really no better time than prom to try out some new tresses. Brunette is classic and blonde is always in fashion, but if you can pull it off, red is the color du jour.

Tons of starlets have been going scarlet, either for personal preference or for film roles, and they all look gorgeous. Have a look at Blake Lively's new ginger locks, or Khloe Kardashian's sleek redhead look. Mandy Moore and Drew Barrymore also looked sexy with deep auburn locks. No matter your skin tone and eye color, there's a red for you if you're interested in giving this trend a try. Just remember - red fades fast, so take care to protect your new 'do.

Not ready to commit to a whole new haircolor? Consider a wig or hairpiece for prom. A great stylist can easily camouflage some fresh new tresses into your own natural hair to give you a unique look for a night - one that's easy to take out when you're ready to go back to reality.

Fashion in bloom
27 April 2011

If you're looking for an inspiring way to wear spring pastels to your next formal event, we've got a tip for you: Let the flowers be your guide! Whitney Port looked like a perfect pansy in a gorgeous one-shouldered dress at the Us Weekly Hot Hollywood Party in Los Angeles last night.

The sleek ivory dress combined yellow, grey and purple accents to channel the classic spring flower's trademark colors, for a look that was every bit as glamorous as it was fresh and modern. Combined with Port's slight springtime tan, mile-long legs and flowing blonde locks, she was the absolute picture of the seasonal style. The dress' short hemline was a perfect fit on Port's long frame, but more petite gals can also rock this fun and flirty silhouette. Plus, the single-shoulder detail adds a fun touch that really sets the dress apart from the rest.

For a little extra spring fun, Port added a pair of electric blue heels - perfect for recalling the clear spring sky and the swelling rivers and creeks.

Whether you draw your inspiration from lilacs, daffodils, roses or camellias, let the flora of spring be the palette for your formal looks this season.

What do you get when you mix cut-outs with florals?
27 April 2011

Complete, sexy awesomeness, of course. Combining two trends is always a hit-or-miss situation, but cut-outs and florals are a match made in heaven.

That's because when you combine the demure, peek-a-boo qualities of the former with the natural feminine aesthetic of the latter, you get an end result like Elsa Pataky's, whose entrance at the Fast Five photocall in Madrid had tires screeching left and right. The actress wore a caramel-colored form-fitting leather minidress with lacy, leaf-patterned cut-outs that swirled around her torso in a heart-shaped pattern and scattered across her hips. She completed her Eve-inspired look with soft, tousled waves and nude peep-toe shoes.

Now that we mention it, leather has also been sort of a hot commodity in formal wear this year, but ladies can opt for classic tulle, silk or chiffon material and still be able to pull off a see-through vine pattern quite nicely. Did we mention this makes for the perfect opportunity to wear some leaves and flowers in your hair as well?

Shiny just reached a whole new level
27 April 2011

Yep, you heard it, metallics are so the thing right now. But wherever there's a fashion trend, there's always an A-lister who's ready and willing to take it to the umpteenth degree.

Demi Moore hedged her bets and certainly won in a black Victoria Beckham dress at Sundance. The futuristic mini bordered on reflective with its shiny, space-age material and poofed-out skirt, which came together with a v-necked bodice that zipped up the middle.

Ladies searching far and wide for a prom look that's out of this world may take note of this Judy Jetson aesthetic, which combines a structured, quirky silhouette with material that belongs to this century and beyond.

And the crowning touch? You can go as wild and weird with your hair, makeup and accessories as you like, which could include a rocker-chic smokey eye or even a Day-Glo eye makeup look. Cuff bracelets and rings are sure to bode well for this kind of look too, and this is one occasion where a complicated updo might just be the name of the game.


All covered up
26 April 2011

Modesty's not always the biggest thing at prom, but if you're looking to stand out from the crowd, covering up can actually help differentiate you from your peers much more easily than showing off more skin. And believe us, you can look just as sexy in a dress that covers up your legs, arms and decolletage as you can in a flirty mini that nearly bares all - just ask Eva Mendez.

Eva Mendez is always sexy, and she proved it by wearing a dress that left just about everything to the imagination. Mendez sported a deep crimson gown that featured a floor-length hem, long sleeves and a collared neckline at the 2011 Tribeca Film Festival Premiere for Last Night, meaning that virtually the only skin she showed off was her face (and what a gorgeous face it is - is it so wrong that she might want us to focus on it?). But while the dress may sound demure, it was actually quite sexy. With sheering detailing, a hemline that showed off just a peek of her white pumps and a cinched waist, the dress showed off plenty of Mendez's figure without baring too much skin.

Now, we're not saying you need to cover up your whole body to stand out at prom. There's nothing wrong with wanting to show off your shoulders, legs or chest (although we don't recommend you do all three at once). But take it from Eva - being modest doesn't mean being unattractive. In fact, it's quite the contrary.

Let your ruffles do the talking
26 April 2011

You can save the bells and whistles for another day, but at this year's prom, there can hardly be a thing as too many ruffles. Soft, whimsical layers of fabric are the perfect feminine accent for any prom dress, be it mini, long, poofy or totally category-defying.

Some of our favorite places to add a ruffle or two are on shoulders, across necklines, draped across the bust, along an asymmetrical hem or even cascading down the back as a train.

If you're looking for something a bit different in the ruffle family, Hayden Panettiere wore a great look to the screening of Hoodwinked Too at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York City. This ruffly dress bordered on a flower-fairy aesthetic, as it featured mis-matched pieces, strips and ruffles all layered over each other for a fun, flirty look.

You can stick to tried-and-true classics or go for something a bit more outside the box like Miss Panettiere. Whatever you end up with, know that you'll be ruffling all the right kinds of feathers.

Sometimes, simple is best
26 April 2011

When shopping for a prom dress, you're bound to be bombarded by dozens of options featuring every bell and whistle imaginable - cutouts, ruffles, long trains, short hems, embellished bodies, complex necklines, sashes, bows and everything else. With all of those choices, trying to find a dress that speaks to your own beauty without drowning your pretty face in a sea of taffeta and bright patterns can be a challenge. But as Naomi Watts proved, sometimes simple is better.

Watts showed up the 6th Annual Tribeca Film Festival Artist Dinner, hosted by Chanel, in a gown of the design house's own making. The dress was in Chanel's signature tweed - a unique fabric for a formal event, but one that prom-going gals shouldn't neglect in their search for the perfect dress. (It's an awesome combination of old-school glamour and unmatched interest.) Plus, the simple shift shape was a flattering but modest fit over Watt's trim physique, and it even adds a little bit of curves around the hips for gals who might be a bit narrow.

If you're looking for the perfect prom dress, stop hunting through bows, ribbons and tulle and turn to something simpler.

Slits are a 'do' at prom this year
26 April 2011

There are a fantastic amount of variables when it comes to prom dress silhouettes, and they involve necklines, shoulders, busts, waists, hemlines and so much more. If you're pondering where to place the emphasis at your prom, consider letting your legs do the talking.

Daring slits are always the way to go for leggy gals (or just those of you who are proud of those gams). This is a great middle ground between wearing a floor-length dress and wearing a mini that's verging on too short, allowing you to have the best of both worlds without feeling super exposed. With sexy slits that go up the front, side or back of your dress, you'll be the walking picture of elegance.

Slits are ideal on long, drapey cocktail gowns, such as the one Olivia Wilde wore to the Tribeca Film Festival screening of Sun City Picture House. The sleek, classic black silhouette hung delicately on two thin straps and featured a deep-V neckline, coming down to the floor but for a demure, off-center slit over Wilde's right leg. She oh-so-wisely paired it with black peep-toe shoes (since your legs aren't the only part of your body doing some peeping) and layered on some long, elegant chains to complement the lengthy sweep of her ensemble.

A single detail can make the difference
25 April 2011

Sometimes all it takes to turn an ordinary dress into something extraordinary is a single detail. Even the simplest frocks can suddenly take on an ethereal quality of timeless glamour with a few slight tweaks. With summer just around the corner, we can't help revisiting some of 2010's best warm-weather looks. And who takes the cake? We'd have to say Ashanti's breathtaking red gown at the BET Awards is a top contender.

Remember what we were saying about a detail here or there being the difference between a good dress and a great one? Well, Ashanti was listening. At first glance, this crimson frock is little more than a simple column dress, albeit one with quite a daring neckline. (Cheers to the gals who can pull that off!) But look again, because the ruffled sleeves on this gorgeous gown make it truly one-of-a-kind.

We love the way this simple detail takes a normal gown and makes it truly unique! So ladies, when you're shopping for prom this year, keep an eye out for a simple detail that can change your whole outfit. In this case, less really can be more.

A jewel-toned dress is the ultimate prom accessory
22 April 2011

Prom is the time to layer on as much bling as is socially acceptable (and in this case, more is certainly more). But beyond just accessorizing your outfit, the ethos of sparkly can extend to your garb as well - which explains why jewel-toned dresses have been so popular this year.

These shiny gowns come in juicy hues of sapphire, emerald, amethyst, ruby and beyond, colors that are vibrant enough to make any girl's complexion positively radiant and steal second glances from all whom she encounters.

Any lady who opts for a jewel-toned prom dress is sure to have this be the piece de resistance of her entire get-up, which is another way of saying that it's the ultimate prom accessory (and perfect for accessorizing with tons of jewelry as well).

So throw on your shiny frock, glitz up your appearance and layer on the rings, bracelets, necklaces and headpieces - the moment is ripe for sparkling like a diamond.

Go Old Hollywood on your prom
22 April 2011

Prom is a time to promenade, if you will, a full range of styles and looks. Be they retro, ultra-modern, utterly classic or totally out-of-this-world bizarre, this is one time to bend the rules a little and let your true spirit out to play.

If you have a hankering for Old Hollywood glamour, there's no better time than prom to break out the bob and the pin-up girl mystique. No current role model touts this better than Scarlett Johansson, who's been known to sport a wavy bob, retro winged liner and red carpet lips on more than one occasion.

You don't have to cut your hair to a mid-length shoulder level just to attain this look, however. The faux-bob has been an ever increasingly popular way to do your hair, and it merely involves some strategic tucking and pinning that shouldn't be hard for either you or your hairdresser to figure out.

For the perfect dress to pair with your bob, consider sweetheart necklines, retro halters and A-line minis for a blast to the past that's always stylin'.

Would you wear a headband to prom?
22 April 2011

There's nothing too crazy about wanting to adorn your crown a bit for prom - ladies have been doing this for years in the form of tiaras, flowers, rhinestones and decorative pins. But in light of all the hippy-dippy commotion on the fashion front, we've seen more than one leading lady wear a headband as part of her formal get-up. Would you?

Vanessa Hudgens and Nicole Richie in particular have been spotlighting this trend, but theirs were an interesting take on the standard band lowered around the forehead. These decorative glitzy pieces featured a connective band that laid flat along their part, so they got way less of that bunched-up hair effect and more of a glamorous flapper mystique (but we're still talking about the '70s, we guess).

An eye-catching headband could be quite a regal addition to any girl's prom get-up, especially if she's planning to leave her hair down. This is one way to make sure your free-flowing locks don't look plain next to any girl's complicated updo - and may, in fact, look even more dressed up.

Since the vibe we get from these adornments is relaxed and effortless, pairing them with a loose, drapey floor-length gown would be a natural (and beautiful) move on your part.

Blending in to stick out
21 April 2011

It may seem counterintuitive, but choosing a gown that closely matches your skin color can actually be a flattering and unique way to make yourself stand out at prom! Whether you're fair or dark, picking a gown that complements your natural skin tone is a sexy yet elegant way to show off your fashion IQ. Don't believe us? Have a look at the beige gown that Katy Perry wore to the premiere of her husband Russell Brand's new film Arthur.

The seductive one-shouldered dress matched Katy's light skin almost perfectly, hugging her figure just closely enough to fool a faraway onlooker into thinking she might be naked. But, in fact, she was far from it - the dress' hem stretched down to the floor in a beautiful sheer train, and the bodice was embellished with some gorgeous gems in gold, silver and diamond.

No matter your skin tone, there's a flattering nude dress out there for you! In fact, for a fun take on the trend, you can even play against your complexion - darker girls can sport pale ivories, while fair beauties can don dark browns. The gorgeous effect will be just the same.

Take a sheer plunge
20 April 2011

Deep, deep necklines are definitely one way to get everyone's attention at prom, but some of you may not feel entirely comfortable taking such a plunge. Fortunately, there's almost always a middle ground where any style trend is concerned, and the deep-V neckline is no exception.

Ashley Tisdale mirrored this perfectly while out promoting Sharpay's Fabulous Adventure in Los Angeles. The starlet wore an ivory minidress with a deep sweetheart neckline that ended all the way at her waist, but she looked clean and classic rather than risque thanks to the sheer paneling that covered her chest.

This is a great middle ground for any busty gals who want to make a splash at prom. While plunging necklines are typically best suited for small-chested girls, those who are a bit more well-endowed can't typically get away with a revealing neckline, and even if they're not shy about letting a bit of cleavage show, there's always a greater risk for a Janet Jackson-esque wardrobe malfunction. Let a sophisticated, sheer swath of fabric hold it all together for you. You'll be the emblem of daring darling.

How to wear a not-quite-twopiece
20 April 2011

You don't have to be Princess Scheherazade to wear a two-piece dress to your upcoming prom, but even so, some gals may shy away from a dress that's a little unconventional and a trifle revealing. If you're just a bit curious, though, you can take a step in that direction without completely venturing into crop-top terrain.

Miss Beyonce Knowles was the prime example of this recently. The superstar singer stepped out to dinner in Paris with Jay-Z wearing a sleek satin mini that featured just a bit of torso. The bodice was much like a mini bustier, and the rest of the gray floral material draped elegantly over her torso, attached to the top at just two points near her ribs. The result? One sleek piece that allowed a slim section of her belly to show through.

Ladies getting ready for prom can find similar styles in a much more dressed-up fashion, ranging from short flirty minis to long, elegant gowns. Look for suspended garments like Beyonce's or intricate designs that feature unexpected cutouts along the torso.

Be the brightest starburst at your prom
20 April 2011

Prom is every girl's chance to be a star, but that statement can be interpreted in oh so many ways. Some girls shine in demure, satin gowns, while others take this message to heart quite literally, arriving in rhinestone-studded dresses that recall the beauty of the night sky.

Or, you can go Katy Perry's route and opt for a dress that features one big sequined starburst. In Katy's case, the detail was positioned right on her belly, expanding into a glimmering lattice of sequins and sparkles. This made for quite an elegant take on her sheer, sand-colored dress, which was sort of a dressed up version of the nude rhinestoned bodysuit that Britney Spears so famously wore in her Toxic music video.

However, you don't have to wear it all front and center. Many prom dresses feature starbursts that start at the hip and expand down along the train of the gown, or details that are even positioned on the back. You don't need to follow anyone's cues to shine in your own right at prom, but this is definitely one standout way to do it.

Prom offers a peek into the velvet underground
15 April 2011

We sure hope the DJ at your prom has the sense to spin a rendition of Crimson and Clover, but we're not necessarily talking about old rock bands in this case. Velvet is sort of a forgotten item these days, and for this reason and a few more we can name, it may just be the unexpected hero of this year's prom.

Perhaps it's a bit heavy for springtime affairs (and heaven forbid it rains on your big night), but the right touch of velvet could create a strikingly royal impression and have you looking oh-so perfectly.

We think Rihanna definitely nailed it (what doesn't she look amazing in?) with the sand-colored floor-length gown that she wore to a recent taping of American Idol. The halter gown was ruched down the middle and flared out at the bottom in mermaid fashion, offering a luxurious glimpse of what velvet can do.

Just be wary that you don't wind up looking like your mother's favorite curtains - beware of excess fabric, and stick to minimalistic designs if you're feeling a bit wary. You won't need much to shine like a star!

On delivering the ultimate prom throwback
14 April 2011

Sure, we're moving rapidly through the decade of the 2010's, but that doesn't mean that we can't express a bit of nostalgia every now and then. Prom, in particular, is one area that is bound to see plenty of retro styles turning heads all over the dance floor.

Retro is a loose term, of course. You can hearken back to virtually any time period you please. From the long-gone days of Grecian toga dresses and to the Day-Glo-inspired dresses of the '80s, think of prom as a time machine that will allow you to travel to any year you wish.

What with the Mad Men craze, we're sure that the '60s mod style is bound to be a favorite at this year's prom. Short minis, color blocking, dramatic winged liner and wavy vintage bobs are all a definite "do."

Of course, we always encourage thinking outside the box, and adopting a few retro accessories is one way to subtly pull off this trend. Ever considered wearing a fedora with your dress? You'll easily be the snappiest dresser and the envy of your decisively less dapper date.

How to wear a minidress
14 April 2011

Plenty of gals like to go all-out for prom, wearing full-length ball gowns with trains that graze the floor as they walk. But if the long, flowing style isn't really your thing, you might be more interested in a flirty minidress that shows off your gams and lets you get down on the dance floor all night long. Of course, you'll want to make sure you keep things classy, especially if you're planning on baring your legs while most of your classmates come dressed as Cinderella. To see how to be elegant in a minidress, have a gander at what Jennifer Hudson wore when she performed on Dancing With the Stars.

The regal songstress sported a Victoria Beckham Spring 2011 minidress in royal purple, paired with matching aubergine pumps with an adorable ankle strap. Hudson showed off her bikini body - she recently lost a significant amount of weight - by picking a dress with a cinched waist and a black grosgrain ribbon to emphasize the smallest part of her figure. The trick to keeping this outfit ultra-classy? A conservative neckline. Hudson may be rather buxom, but she kept her goodies tucked away with a shallow v-neck that showed off just a hint of cleavage, allowing her legs to be the stars.

If you want to make the minidress all your own this prom, remember to keep things elegant by picking a subtle color and keeping it covered up top so everyone can focus on your gorgeous legs.

Structured bodices: A do or a don't?
14 April 2011

You've no doubt seem them on a number of starlets - bodices designed to look a bit like undergarments. Often these bodices feature visible seams, bra-like cups or even clear boning that give them the appearance of an old-timey corset or something that you might don in the bedroom to impress your boyfriend. Is this look red-carpet ready, or is it better suited to the boudoir? We say - go for it!

We've seen more than a few stars pull off this unique style. For example, take a look at what Nicky Hilton wore to the 2011 Nickelodeon Kid's Choice Awards. The heiress sported a romantic Proenza Schouler strapless mock two-piece dress, featuring an olive skirt and cream-colored bodice with a very structured look. Because Nicky's so thin, the dress lent her figure a little extra oomph, helping to emphasize and define her bust.

While it looks pretty on Nicky, we must caution especially buxom girls that this look can definitely veer into underwear territory fast. If you're blessed with a big bosom, you might want to look for a style that offers a little more support. For petite gals, however, the structured bodice can be a flattering and unique look!

Combining trends
13 April 2011

Many gals want nothing more than to stand out at prom this year, but finding a dress unlike any other can be a real challenge. Luckily, we may have located one of the most unusually glamorous looks in the fashion world. Have a look at the gown that Leighton Meester wore to the premiere of Country Strong earlier this year - it combined an asymmetrical neckline with a mock two-piece, a sheer skirt and crocheted details. That's a lot of trends on in one dress!

Meester proves that you don't have to stick to just one trend when it comes to picking out the perfect dress. The Gossip Girl actress sported this Marc Jacobs frock that shows off almost half a dozen hot trends at once! The dress features a one-shouldered neckline with an adorable bow, as well as a floor-length red skirt that's sheer from the knees down. The black top and red skirt almost make for a mock two-piece, but the crocheted design of both helps tie them together into one fabulous frock.

If you want to rock this look, the trick is to keep the rest of your ensemble subdued so your dress can truly shine. Meester let the trends shine in their own right by staying away from bold jewelry, opting instead for a simple pair of dangling silver earrings and some demure, barely-there lipstick.

Ride the wave to prom this year
11 April 2011

Straight-laced is officially for the squares, and it's not exactly hip to be so. This year, embrace the free-flowing silhouettes that, for lack of a better word, have been making all sorts of waves in anticipation of prom.

Of course, there are oh so many ways one can interpret this dictate. Starting with dresses, ladies everywhere are looking for cuts that offer just a bit of a ruffle here and there, be they high-low hemlines or column dresses that move and ripple with every step.

As for hair? The straightening iron of many a lass has been collecting dust beneath her vanity table for quite some time now, and rightly so. Body, texture, waves and curls are all de rigeur for any fashion, but especially for prom. Wearing your hair down in loose, retro waves will instantly dress up any look, even if you don't shell out the big bucks to get your hair all twisted up in an elaborate updo.

If your ensemble lacks one or more of these essential items, consider adding in a few unique accessories. Shoes and clutches can feature wavy bows or details, but if you've really got a good eye, you can nab a piece of statement jewelry that recalls all the motion of the rockin' ocean.

The big, the bold and the blingy
07 April 2011

Who said your prom dress necessarily had to steal the show? We'd never encourage you to look anything but your absolute best, but for some ladies, this may involve layering on more statement jewelry rather than opting for an uber-complicated dress.

For those of you who agree, you're in luck. "Prom 2011 is all about big, statement jewelry," according to Cassandra Morris, Prom Guide on About.com. "Go for chandelier earrings, a chunky cocktail ring, wide bracelet or several bangles, or a statement necklace. Just make sure to avoid accessory overload - you don’t want to overpower your dress."

If you're really into following statement jewelry trends, you may have noticed the layered necklace thing that's been going on. Layering strands of pearls of varying lengths and thicknesses is a supremely sophisticated way to add a touch of class to your ensemble, but the most trendy thing as of now involves thick collars paired with several long, skinny chains, so you really emphasize the disparity between lengths.

As for bracelets and rings, thickness is it. Cuffs on both the wrists and fingers are bound to get you all the right kind of attention.

Prom dress hues are louder than ever
07 April 2011

Not that there will ever be a true replacement for soft pinks, beiges and the classic LBD, but it seems like colors are taking a turn for the brighter this prom season, and it's enough to make us all yell(ow) with joy.

"From fuchsia [to] turquoise (or even neon), bright colors are happening," the Sun-Sentinel reports. "Add accessories in contrasting colors to pack even more punch."

We've seen this sort of color blocking happen against a plain black dress, but imagine what that tangerine-colored gown would look like with bright blue or aqua accents?

Of course, you don't want to go overboard - if people seem to need to shield their eyes when you walk into the room, that's probably a good indication that you've got just a bit too much going on. Sticking to a palette of two complementing colors is a safe and stylish bet, and you can even layer various shades of each to create a slightly more complex ensemble.

Let out your inner flower child for prom
05 April 2011

Who said that the '70s revival had to stop at the street-wear level? If you've been watching this season's fashion with any degree of close examination, you may well be aware of the flower child effect taking hold of some of this year's prom styles as well.

Whether you dress up in a long, flowing maxi dress or a white macrame eyelet mini, these loose-fitting, comfortably chic styles pack their weight in glamour and sophistication.

Lots of hippy-dippy dresses tend to feature soft, floral patterns, so if this up your alley, you're well in luck. However, a solid-colored or textured maxi can look much more dressed up than the former, and you may just end up replacing the florals with a crown of real buds adorning your hair.

Accessories are all too fun when recalling decades past, and in this case, you can expect to see plenty of long, drapey necklaces featuring feathers, natural stones or other chic new-agey wares. However you choose to spin it, this is one style that's all about letting your natural beauty shine.

Soft, wavy hair - a definite prom 'do
05 April 2011

Whether your hair is curly, frizzy, kinky or absolutely bone-straight, there's one go-to formal style that looks fabulous on everyone and is easy to create at home. That's right, we're talking about soft, flowing waves. This look has been a red carpet staple since at least the '40s, and nobody epitomizes its modern incarnation better than a little songbird by the name of Taylor Swift.

She may have flirted with straight hair once or twice, but the country pop superstar has mostly gone au naturel when it comes to her wavy locks. Whether she's gathering them into a messy bun, pulling them into a low side ponytail or letting them flow freely, her curls provide the perfect frame for her cute-as-a-button face. Plus, no matter what style dress she's wearing - short, long, strapless or three-quarter sleeved - her signature hairdo still works.

Ladies, you can pull off this chic, elegant look for prom, too. Separate hair into one- or two-inch strands, then use a medium-barreled curling iron to create picture-perfect curls. When you're done, use your fingers to loosen the curls and - voila! - softly cascading waves!

Blossoms in the spring
05 April 2011

You've heard us talk about how florals are big for spring over and over again, but hey, don't take our word for it - Harper's Bazaar seems to agree.

The Australian version of the respected mag put gorgeous Hollywood darling - and Aussie! - Cate Blanchett on its cover, dressing her in a series of floral-inspired gowns. The first sheer black number features strategically placed floral overlays that let the actress keep covered while looking sexy. The second is a luxurious textured design with bursts of floral color against a black backdrop. The final dress is the most traditional - a jersey floral print dress - but features an electric blue fringe along the collar that truly makes it one-of-a-kind.

These gorgeous and romantic looks illustrate three ways that prom-goers can embrace floral this season. You can go all-out with bold texture and vibrant colors, or you can opt for something more subtle (but equally special) with a solid-colored gown featuring floral accents. Lastly, for the traditionalists out there, a classic flower-patterned dress will always be in style!

As the flowers bloom this spring, you can blossom too in amazing designs inspired by the season.

When black and white is no plain affair
04 April 2011

You may think that black and white is the easy way out in the formal dress category - tried and true, this certainly is one safe option when it comes to playing dress up. Lest ye be fooled, however, we thought it worth pointing out how stunningly detailed and complex this classic can be.

In case you forgot your ability to see in shades of gray, Heidi Klum reminded us all that a black and white ensemble isn't always so cut and dry. Klum was a stunner at the Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards in Los Angeles in a black and white Gucci cocktail mini and elaborate black peep-toe sandals. Though the cap-sleeved dress featured few details in terms of its silhouette (a pair of comfy pockets excluded), the collar was embellished in a beautiful matrix of ivory pieces, and her shoes featured cut-outs elaborate enough to rival any Paris Metro sign.

This is particularly worth mentioning for any of you ladies getting ready for prom this year, as this is one way to combine sheer simplicity with complex details that are sure to make you shine.

Orange you glad I didn't say banana?
04 April 2011

Orange has a tough life. Sandwiched between the ever-popular red and sunshiney yellow, orange is often overlooked by fashionistas searching for a safe alternative. But hey, isn't prom night all about taking chances and doing what you want? With color variants from burnt umber to orange creamsicle, there's a variety for everyone - and the second color in ROY G. BIV is finally getting its day in the spotlight.

Have a look at what Julianne Hough wore to the 2011 Academy of Country Music Awards last weekend. The tangerine frock featured a flattering drop waist, a halter-style neckline and a gorgeous sheer overlay of floral patterning. It was the perfect way to bring out Hough's natural glow, letting her rosy cheeks shine and complementing her peach lipstick perfectly. Paired with gold accessories, the dress made Hough the veritable picture of summer.

Orange is the perfect color to complement a tan, so if you've been to the beach a few times this spring, orange will bring out that golden color. But whether you're fair or tan, freckled or dark-skinned, there's a shade of orange to suit you. So don't shy away from this fun, summery color! Take a chance and stand out in orange at this year's prom.

How to rock the shoulder-drop
01 April 2011

Maybe you haven't considered the off-the-shoulder look since the last time you watched Pretty Woman, but there's a reason why Julia Roberts looked so dashing in red, and it doesn't all have to do with the crimson.

Shoulder-baring necklines are a classic prom staple, and you don't need to feel like you're nostalgic for the '80s just because you let your sleeves fall to the wayside. Forget the taffeta, teased bangs and poofy whatever and go for a dress that features a much more modern style.

Those of you who'd rather do the slinky thing will find that any form-fitting mini or sheath dress is a natural fit for the off-the-shoulder neckline, and it's especially great for flaunting some serious neck bling.

That being said, this is one cut that also bodes well for the A-line skirts and poofy ball gowns that characterize prom styles for aspiring princesses. If you need any more inspiration, just think Beauty and the Beast - you'll certainly be the Belle of the ball.

Fabulous at 50 and beyond
01 April 2011

Ladies of a certain age may not be the party animals they once were, but that doesn't mean you can't look glamorous well into your 50s, 60s and beyond. Whether you're attending a wedding, a party, a fundraiser or any other social event, there's no excuse for looking frumpy. No matter your age, you can look just as fabulous as you did in your 20s with the right attire.

If you're looking for a fashion role model, consider Dame Helen Mirren. Whether it's good genes, a healthy diet or nightly baths in molten gold that keeps Mirren looking so great, we'll never know, but she sure looks fabulous! She proved it this week when she attended the 2011 CinemaCon Big Screen Achievement Awards in Las Vegas, where she picked up the Career Achievement Award.

Mirren wore a soft blush-colored gown that was made of chiffon and draped gently over her figure - an excellent trick for women who are looking to conceal a few lumps and bumps that might not have been so prominent 30 years ago. She added a matching shawl for the perfect touch of matronly modesty.

Take a page out of Mirren's book and look gorgeous at your next social event, no matter your age.

Abstract art
01 April 2011

We know a lot about different dress shapes, from trapeze to sheath. Bubble-hem, A-line, long sleeved, floor-length, column, Grecian ... they're all stylish options when it comes to picking out a gown for your next fete. But what about some shapes that get a little less recognition? Like the ones you can't really, well, recognize?

You don't want to look like you've just stepped out of a Picasso painting, but picking a dress with an unusual or undefinable cut can be a great way to really separate yourself from the crowd and show off your fashion IQ. Michelle Monaghan recently showed just how perfect this trend can look when she wore an unusual gown last night to a New York screening of her new movie, Source Code.

Monaghan's dress was notable for a number of reasons, not least of all because it was such a gorgeous jade tone. However, what really makes the dress unique is its asymmetrical hem and loose-fitting top.

A one-of-kind gown like Monaghan's is the perfect way to get noticed at your next formal event.