By Samantha Sidi ’16, Arts and Entertainment Editor

Newark Academy students are constantly stressed, but shopping for a prom dress should not contribute to it. There are so many styles and trends this season that everyone should try, and with these tips anyone can stand out.

The diverse trends this season can influence the shopping experience. Similar to the fall runway fashions, black and white dresses give a contemporary twist with a modern vibe for simple styles of prom dresses. Pastels are classic spring colors, which are luckily back in style with the classic light colors that can make anyone look tan in the pre-prom photos. Another way to add interest to a prom dress is cutouts. The cutouts can either bare the majority of your back or have a mesh design subtlety covering up, but either way this trend is definitely something to experiment with. Peplum is also a style to try. This style emerged recently in fall 2012, and offered a throwback to the 1980’s style. The style is seen everywhere, ranging from blouses, t-shirts, skirts, and now prom dresses. Embellishments are practically a classic for prom dresses and this year they are again making a statement. Pairing an embellished dress with simple modern accessories would add a contrast. The last trend worth noting of is lace. Similar to embellishments, lace is found on a prom dress to add details; the style would look amazing in the back with some cutouts, combining two trends in one.

Another aspect of prom dress shopping that definitely needs to be considered is the shoes. Shoes are the most important accessories since they can make or break a look. Intricate shoes can influence an overall look by being the focus if the dress is understated. The new spring trends for shoes can update a look, most importantly with bold prints on pumps that could jazz up a simple black and white dress. The eye-catching graphic and floral patterns give a fresh update to sleek pumps and sandals. Another trend worth pairing with a prom dress is sporty details. The athletic-inspired clothing has developed as a noticeable trend in recent years and this spring the mesh or lacing details traditionally found in sportswear gives an edgy touch to classic pumps or sandals. Laser-cut details are an easy favorite because they are not only aesthetically pleasing, but add a feminine touch with the delicate cutouts that make any pair of heels a statement. The laser-cut details are traditionally found in metallic colors or in white, which is this season’s must-have color. Laces on heels can be rocked in neutral. These shoes will debut perfectly for the unspoken rule of short dresses for junior prom. The final trend that can be adapted for prom is the modern heels with chunky, wedge-like styles. These shoes can be edgy and add interest to a look. A perfect pairing with modern heels are minimalistic accessories in metallic colors, such as, a choker.

With these recommendations and report of the trends this season, anyone can stand out with an eye-catching dress and accessories. However, the most important aspect of prom dress shopping is comfort. Feeling great means looking exceptional when it comes to the day of prom.

Happy shopping!