Prom is a night that most high school juniors and seniors will treasure throughout their lifetime. They plan for prom night throughout the entire school year and talk about it for years after.

Prom is a night of music and dancing, fun and frolicking, friendships and romance. Teen girls do many things to prepare for the big night, including finding a date, making sure hair, makeup, and nails are done to perfection, and choosing the right dress. Choosing the dress can be the most complicated part of the whole process.

Where to Get the Perfect Junior Prom Dress

Searching online is a smart way to narrow down the type of dress you want. Which colors catch your eye? Do you see yourself in a sleek column gown or wrapped in layers of tulle? Do you prefer a high-fashion black and white gown, or would you rather dress in fairy tale pink?

Once you have found a style and color that suits you, it's time to hit the stores. Try to avoid buying your junior prom dress online. What looks great on the rack, or on a model, may not be flattering on you.

Allot yourself plenty of time to search for your junior prom dress. For instance, you might want to set aside two or three weekends for shopping. Go with friends and make a day of it. You want to take all the time you need to choose the right dress and not be rushed into making a decision you'll later regret.

How to Find the Perfect Junior Prom Dress

The first rule of dress shopping is knowing your body in all its glorious strengths and weaknesses. Figure out what your flaws are and what points you want to emphasize. If you're tall and skinny, try to find a full length junior prom dress that flows from the waist down. This gives the illusion of continuity, giving you a smooth look so your height is less noticeable. If you are on the heavier side, it is a good idea to find a full length gown with a high waistband, taking the emphasis away from your problematic areas. If you are short, a full length dress with few designs or patterns might be your best bet, as it offers continuity, and solid colors draw the eye away from the dress itself, allowing people to see the “whole picture."