LOS ANGELES - Eletra Casadei has died.   The California fashion designer whose prom dresses put away the Sweet Sixteen look and moved into strapless, backless, slit-to-there styles, died on Sept 27 in her Pacific Palisades home.The cause of death was brain cancer.One of the first Los Angeles designers of her generation to gain a national reputation for something other than swimwear, Ms. Casadei claimed Old Hollywood glamour as her inspiration and fantasy dresses at affordable prices as her niche.A former fashion model, she wore her own designs and added a few accents, like plum color streaks in her hair and iridescent fuchsia nail polish.She introduced her TD4 (To Die For) line in the late 1970s for girls 14 and up. Before long, their mothers were wearing the clothes, and she launched a second collection, Casadei, for them. 10 years later, by the early 1980s, a boom time for flaunt-it fashion, Ms. Casadei was at her peak."Padded shoulders, draping, appliques, sequins - Eletra's evening dresses were over the top and a lot of fun," said Pam Roberts, the designer's former publicist.Prices ranged from about $100 to about $400. Throughout the 80s, Ms. Casadei's collections were carried in over 6,000 boutiques and department stores. A former fashion model, she wore her own designs and added a few accents, like plum color streaks in her hair and iridescent fuchsia nail polish.Dresses from her collections turned up on television sitcoms and soap operas as diverse as "Golden Girls" and "Dynasty."Ms. Casadei's best advertisements were the two fashion-music videos she created in the mid-1980s, modeled after the music videos that aired on MTV. Instead of costumes, she used dresses from her latest collection."Eletra pioneered fashion-music videos," said Janet Orsi, another former publicist. "The idea was to capitalize on the music video phenomenon and marry it to fashion. Designers got to show their clothes in a new genre. It was a change from the typical fashion show."Ms. Casadei's videos played in stores and wholesale showrooms as well as on MTV. She played the lead in "Adventures of the Countess," a mystery made in the style of a silent movie with scary mood music.Her other video, "Prom Night," with a soundtrack of Steve Winwood music, shows girls at a dance that gets more exciting when guys in black leather show up.Ms. Casadei was born in the east San Francisco Bay community of Hayward, where she won the title "Maid of Hayward" as a teenager. She graduated from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, majoring in business administration. Her first job, as a store buyer, was frustrating."She was always wishing she could change the way the clothes were designed," Ms. Casadei's sister said.She taught herself the skills of fashion design and opened a business office in downtown Los Angeles.Ms. Casadei scaled back her operation in the '90s but became known for her remakes of popular celebrity dresses at the Academy Award shows. Her version of the vintage Valentino gown that actress Julia Roberts wore in 2001 sold for $169.Until recently,  she designed under the Casadei by Eletra Casadei label and owned a boutique in Pacific Palisades.  At her boutique, she sold her ready-to-wear styles and made custom-order clothes. She leaves her son, Nico Casadei Roe; her mother, Verna Casadei, and another sister, Janelle Brunelli.  She was divorced from her only marriage.Click here to play

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Your teen is excited about prom, and has been waiting for this day for a long time. A time where memories will be shared, and the event will forever be treasured. In the scheme of all this planning, a budget should be necessary. After all, prom is not inexpensive. Here are a few things to go over with your teenager to plan out the expenses before it leaves you broke.Advise them to speak with there date about Prom expenses- Make sure that your teenager and there date have all the expenses arranged. Budgeting for prom is a great way to save money. I'm sure the other party, would like to save money as well, not unless there parents have no problem covering for everything. If you're on a budget, splitting the expense in half can save you money, instead of having your teenager pay for the whole cost. Well. let me re phrase that, your teenager won't be coughing up the money, you will. So make sure you discuss with your teenager that they go over who will pay for:Prom Tickets- Either party can pay for the whole amount, or it can be a shared expense. They can pay for there own prom ticket.Flowers or accessories- Both parties purchase a corsage for the other.Attire- Both parties pay for there own attire.Limousine- A shared expense for the entire group using the limousine. Everyone can pitch in.After Prom Activities- Both parties can pay there own way.Prom Pictures- This can be a shared expense between the two of them. Or, they can make a compromise. Whoever, pays for the pictures, has to buy the other party for the after prom activities, such as dining cost.Shop around!- You don't want your teenager to get anything they first see. Make sure you shop around for bargains and sales. Check the phone book for local cheap prom attire stores, surf the internet for sales, and most importantly don't be afraid to bargain with that cashier for a discount, for buying a tuxedo and a bow tie. Try to range out a cost, and spending limit of how much money you have available for your teenagers prom.Don't give them an EXACT spending limit!- Try not to start this budget by telling them they have only such-and-such amount to spend. Your teenager cannot control how much things cost. Trying to stay within a certain amount at this stage of the process will cause stress in them and create a rift between the two of you. This is a point in your teenagers life where they need you the most, laying down the law, might cause distress and anger. Instead, emphasize sells to your teenager. Explain to them, everything is not low priced in this era, and the two of you will need to find ways to save money.Click here to play

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Most girls look forward to attending there senior prom. Its a day of liberating yourself, hanging out with your beloved friends and date. You know you've been waiting for this you're whole life, searching for that beautiful dress that will make you feel like a queen, and running restless with your friends, searching for that perfect prom hairdo. You've got it all planned, however you're still thinking about who you want to take. Most people think that because people are in relationships it's easier to just go together. It has its perks as well as it's flaws. Bringing a boyfriend/girlfriend can make prom memorable, however since you and your significant other are comfortable with each other, this may compel you to be honest and blunt with each other on prom, if one is agitating or pestering the other. Also, what if you're significant other is possessed with the green eyed monster (jealousy) and over reacts when you get the attention you deserve. Let's face it, the majority of people at prom look absolutely stunning! So it's never that easy. So your single, and still deciding who you want to go with. These are just a few things to consider before asking that special someone to spend that remarkable evening with you.Ask someone who enjoys the same hobbies and interest as you- Can you imagine asking someone to prom who doesn't have anything in common with you? What would you guys talk about? Make sure when you ask your date out, you feel comfortable being with them. If this was a blind date, try to get there phone number, so you can talk a week prior just to familiarize yourself with them. Get a touch and feel of there background. It is important that you do so, you want to be at ease with your date.Someone who you're able to negotiate the cost with- If the guy offers to pay for the prom tickets, and limo offer to pay for the pictures, or maybe for half of his tuxedo. Thats only if he feels comfortable you chipping in. Some guys (or girls) are traditional and want to pay for everything, in this I mean, the prom tickets, the pictures, the limo, and maybe the restaurant or dining place you might attend after prom. However, if you have a penny pinching boyfriend or date, its best to discuss these matters before prom. You don't want to be stuck with these expenses you can't afford. You two can also split the cost. I, for one didn't feel comfortable having my date pay for everything, so I offered for us to go half.Be sure you ask someone who has the same plans for prom- If you like to dance, be sure your partner does too! You don't want to ask someone to prom, only to find out that he/she thinks dancing is for nerds. Prom consists of dancing, spending time with friends, and dining. If you're the out going type, loves to talk, be sure your date does too! If your date is the shy type and a little timid, this may cause them to feel ill at ease, and discomfited. Also, make sure your date has the same plans for prom, for ex: if you were looking forward to going to an after party, discuss this with your date. Some people are fine without bringing there prom date to an after party, so if you're comfortable with this idea, more power to you, however if you expect your date to be there, and there not up for the idea, take this into consideration.Above all, make sure your date is someone you want to spend that night with, someone who will offer you the best kind of prom you desire. Don't let the person you take be the reason for disaster, prom is for enjoying yourselves. You only get one senior prom. Click here to play

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So you're prom is one month away, and you still have that extra flab hanging over your stomach, or you say its your bottom? Can you lose 15 pounds at the gym in 1 month? Probably. But if you want to take the short cut, and appear to be 15 pounds slimmer, try these trips!Try wearing a monochrome. A monochrome dress is a one color dress that elongates the body, making you look slimmerNeutral colors, black, silver, gray, beige, taupe, gold, will make you appear taller and more slender.Wearing dark muted colors make you look thinner. Not everyone should wear black, so think shimmery deep gray, silver, wine, raisin, burgundy, forest green, russet, midnight blue, golden brown, cocoa, or cranberry.Try wearing vertical lines in fabric or pattern. Overall effect is up/down.Wear Materials that skim along the contour of your body, not clingy or super tight.Wear long straight skirts or dresses - be sure the skirt is not too tight around your behind! Wearing slight empire waist makes your lower body look longer and thinner.Wearing Heels creates the illusion of length to the leg. Making your legs appear longer.Wearing a long necklace-or no necklace at all, makes the neck look slimmer and longer.Wearing low cut dresses can make the neck appear look longer, however don't exaggerate the plunging neckline, too much cleavage can make you look tacky and trashy.Wear fabrics that drape and move with your body, think along the lines of graceful, relaxed, fluid, soft.Click here to play

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If you're on the heavy side, you want to wear dresses that will focus on your curves. If you want to hide just certain parts of your body to give the illusion of slenderness, avoid the following:Don't wear big exaggerated shoes. Shoes that are wide, or look simply big, can make you look chunky.Bright Colors make you look 10 pounds heavier. Clear, pure colors like red, blue, yellow, orange, green, purple tend to add pounds. Use these colors in accessories like necklaces, earrings, and shawls. Wearing sequins and beads in hair are fine, as long as those your dress doesn't carry those patterns all over your body.Don't wear clingy tight clothing. This will show the silhouette of your body. It will make you look chubby, so depending on your body shape, search for a dress that will flatter, and focus on your best feature.Fluffy, ruffly gathered skirts, add pounds. So try to stay away from a dress, that has a huge tulle flared skirt, if you must, try to limit the roundness, by choosing a dress that's not that fluffy.Stay away from bulk, and stuff fabric. When you wear fabric that feels bulky, it adds pounds, making you look bigger. Stick to semi loose satin.Stay away from full sleeves. Bigger girls think that covering there body will make them appear thinner, but it only makes you look large, and chubby. If you have flabby arms, use thick straps.Avoid contrasting shoes, if your shoes are lighter or darker than your dress , it adds 5 pounds.Avoid having your hair hanging down over the neck. It breaks up the sleekness of the neck. Think up do!Avoid the two tone dresses-one color up top and one color down below cuts the sleek line in half.Avoid shiny material like satin, all-over sequins taffeta, metallics-save metallics for accessories.Avoid busyness at the neckline, like big jewelry or ruffled necklines. This will only make your neck appear large, and attention grabbing. You want to slim down your neck, avoid having a lot of jewelry.Click here to play

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So you've already have the man you were dreaming about since you were a little girl. You have your setting and theme for your wedding. You picked out your special girls to stand next to you on the most exciting day of your life. Now, its time to take the light off you for a minute and think about how will you ever repay your bridesmaids for the help they've provided for you? Jewelry is a perfect gift, especially for an event like this. The beautiful dress that they will be wearing, will look absolutely beautiful with jewelry and accessories. To top it off, it also makes for a great gift. Your bridesmaids will cherish the bridesmaid jewelry you give them forever. It is a token of your special day that they were part of. Don?t forget, once you?ve got the bridesmaid jewelry picked out ? add a little note of how much you appreciate all they have done for you in the planning of your big, special day! So before you start choosing what type of jewelry you want them to wear, think along these lines.Pick jewelry to compliment the dress, not over power it- Everyone will be looking at the bride, and her ravishing dress. The audience will also be looking at the bridesmaids, after all pictures of you will be taken with your radiant dress. However, even though your jewelry should accentuate the dress, the primary focus will also be your gown! Your jewelry should flatter the dress, compliment it. Too much "bling bling" will make you look cheesy, and a target for attention. You want to stand out with your beauty and attire, not by tackiness.Think Necklines! It is important to consider the dress styles when purchasing jewelry. You might want to get a full set (earrings, bracelets, necklace) A good way of thinking of how to purchase necklaces for your bridesmaids, is choose them to follow the style of the dress neckline. For example, for a v neck dress, choose necklaces with a Y-drop, lariat or back dangle, or the classic pendant style necklace.For a unique touch, choose different jewelry for each bridesmaids- You chose your bridesmaids cause there all important to you in different ways. One might have the ability to tame you when you're feeling hot tempered and emotional. Another might know how to make you laugh so hard until you felt like you just endured an abdominal work out. All of your bridesmaids carry different traits, and personalities, so choose jewelry that loudly shout there character. You can get the same color of jewelry, however don't be afraid to mix it up with a different design of jewelry. If you keep the color of the jewelry consistent, it is a nice to way to showcase each individuals taste with congruency.Its a token of appreciation- The jewelry you picked out for them, make for great gifts! So give it away! Wrap the jewelry, fancy the box with bows and lace. You want your bridesmaids to remember this day forever and if you have chosen wisely, they will be able to wear the jewelry for years afterward- and its guaranteed they'll remember that memorable day each time they do!Click here to play

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So the proposal is done, now for the planning. What theme will you use? Where will you have the wedding? Whats you're wedding dress going to look like? Then the unavoidable question arises, who will you choose to be your bridesmaids? Choosing a bridesmaid comes with careful thinking and thought. If you rush your pick, inevitably you might end up with irresponsible, unenthusiastic, or friends that are not up for the assignment and can cause stressful situations. You will have enough to put on your plate on that fast pace day, the last thing you need is a bridesmaid weighing in on your shoulders. These women will be an important part of the event, and it?s essential that you choose wisely. Heres a few tips on how to narrow down your bridesmaid crew! Don?t make quick assumptions- You might have a couple of friends that are going through problems right now, one might be going through a break up with her cheating boyfriend, another might be facing financial debt. Don?t write off your friends if you know this is something they were looking forward to. Offer them the position, but also let them know if they decline, then you would be in complete understanding. If however, you make an irrational assumption, and refuse to ask them, this might cause them to feel betrayed or hurt. If your bridesmaid dresses are designer dresses, and they?re financial debt is getting in the way of purchasing the dress, promise to find something else for her to do in the wedding that is inexpensive, but still thoughtful.More isn?t always better- It must be hard trying to narrow down the people you want right next to you on your wedding day. Sure, you would want anyone who ever touched your heart, who directed you to the right path, who was loyal to you. However choosing more people on the bridesmaid front may not be the wisest choice. It leaves room for more complications. If however, you choose one handful of bridesmaids, its easier to decide on what dress to pick and wear. More people would mean, you would have to have all of them agree and decide on a dress, shower date, and coordinate all the other joys of bridal party. If you?re on a budget, think about how much more money you would need to spend on the bridal gifts and so forth.Just because you were a bridesmaid in there wedding, they dont have to be in yours!-Thats right I said it. This isn?t a dinner party invitation that you need to reciprocate. And your circumstances aren?t the same. They might have been loaded with money, and thought quantity over quality. Don?t ask that best friend of elementary school to be in your wedding if you haven?t talked to them in years. Especially if its just to return the favor!Blood is thicker then water- So you and your sisters are close. However there is one out of the bunch, thats the monkey on your back. When everyone was supporting you, she was the one that had nothing but negative things to say. Your relationship with her is complex, but you love her none the less. Still, its worth having family up there to avoid unnecessary conflict and hurt feelings. Think of it like this, asking her might allow her to become more mature and responsible. And if that doesn?t work, you can always use it as a browning point when she?s back to her old habits.Theres not a law that only allows one maid of honor!- If you have 2 people you feel closest to, and absolutely can?t decide or refuse to ask either one of them, then have both of them there! Theres not a law about only having one bridesmaid to choose from. Be aware of the scuffling and arguing over who will hold the ring, the bouquet, stand right next to you, sign the license, and so on. Just tell them both what you specifically want each to do. Click here to play

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Buying a Bridesmaid dresses is a very critical decision to make. You have to make sure the color and styles match, that the dresses aren't damaged, and that OF COURSE that you look stunning in them! The bridesmaid is the next important thing next to the bride. A bridesmaid is one that should compliment the bride in her dress and in all ways. If you're on a tight budget, bargain shopping is fundamentally important. However, because the dress is "cheap" it is your job to make sure the dress isn't a recipe for disaster. Here are a few tips to avoid a bridesmaid nightmare! Do your Research!- When shopping for a cheap dress, research is essential. You can't be lazy for an event like this. Also, give yourself enough time to do some research, lets say the wedding is July 21st. Give yourself at least a month and a half before the wedding to search for a cheap prom dress. This gives you enough time to check through the latest fashion magazines for styles, search though different bridal shops to collect brochures and pamphlets, and surf the net for sales and discounts.. It leaves room for opinion, alterations, and exchanging dresses. Don't procrastinate! You don't want to disappoint your bride to be, you want everything to flow smoothly as possible.Create a checklist!- Don't take the long way, make this easy for yourself. Create a list of your fantasy bridesmaid dress. Write down your ideal color, style, pattern, fabric, and length. This article is about budgeting, so don't forget the bargain! Try to negotiate the cost with the owner, if he doesn't budge, move on! You don't want to be left broke after the dress, and have your hair look like a birds nest, and your make up done like a clown! Round off how much money you are willing to spend on the dress. If however, you come up on a dress with a great value, and beautiful style of design. Check the fabric, and make sure the dress is not damaged in any way, remember this is your job to look presentable and beautiful! You don't want to discover the dress had a huge slit in the back.Get an honest opinion!- Bring a blunt honest friend(s) with you when trying on your ideal bridesmaid dress. Sure, they may be a slight burden to be around when there being honest with you about your boyfriend, but these friends will be sure to let you know if the dress looks hideous on you! Make sure you bring one that knows you well, they can see if the dress reflects your personality, and flatters your figure. Don't bring someone to shop with that you vaguely know, or an acquaintance. They don't know your style, and your personality, there opinions are not very validating. Your final order!-Once you've decided what dress you will be wearing, take down your measurements accurately. Giving wrong measurements can potentially ruin the dress. Discuss openly about the alterations that need to be made. Since you will be wearing the dress, I can't fret enough about inspecting the dress. Do not be fooled from the way it hangs on the hanger with the protective plastic over it. It is your job as the consumer to carefully inspect the dress for stains, holes, tear, shredding, bad odor, or just plain damaged dress. When making the transaction, try to pay in credit card. That way everything is in writing. If you want to take extra pre-caution you can also write details of the dress on the receipt. Avoid taking the dress without proper identity from the store owner, even if they are offering a discount.Your bride offered a position that is to be valued. She obviously asked you to be a part of her wedding for a significant reason. It is your duty as a bridesmaid to be responsible and understanding. Being a bridesmaid is a matter of honor. You need to look great, and compliment her on the most restless and anxious day of her life. This is the day to wear that smile on your face, and keep her relaxed and focus.Click here to play

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Shopping for a bridesmaids dress is never easy. First and foremost, everyone has a different sense of style, a dress that might be beautiful to you, might be hideous to one of your bridesmaids. You want them to be able to enjoy there dress on that memorable evening. Assuming your bridesmaids are all very close to you, you know they'd do and probably wear anything for you on that one special evening. They probably realize the bride is under a lot of stress, well under pressure, and still figuring last minute touch ups. However, you want your bridesmaids to stand out, with there figure, and there skin complexion. Here are a couple of tips you can do to eliminate problems, and keep everyone on there toes and smiling!Let them choose a design- Sure its your big day, and you want to be on top of things, and have the dresses coordinate, and match. However, you don't want your bridesmaids stomping around angrily, with a sour look on there face because you didn't let them have an opinion on the dress, and now they look like one of there great aunts. You can let your bridesmaids go out and shop for a couple of dresses, and have them choose there 2 favorite dress design. Have them try on the dress, and decide what style best suits them ALL of them. You should remember that your choice of bridesmaid dresses may not necessarily look good on your bridesmaids. Thats precisely why you shop for the dresses with your bridesmaids so they can put in there 2 cents worth.Comprise- Let them know what style you have in mind, however take there opinions and ideas into consideration. Ask them what style and color they feel there most compatible with, and with your help, have them try it on. Ask them what style they feel more comfortable with, and if it doesnt meet your criteria, try on another dress that you both feel comfortable with.Bridesmaids dresses dont have to be the same- If youre not on a tight budget, a great way to compromise is by getting each bridesmaid a dress of there choice. Just pick out a material of the same color that can be used on all the dresses so that they look coordinated and choose a color scheme that will compliment there skin tones.Click here to play

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Besides your dress being the big hit of the night, your make up and hair do should also compliment your attire. Your most important task is to locate the one best hairstyle that matches your face frame, body form, and dress style. Your job is to understand your individual attributes, so you will be able to determine if the hairstyle is the right one for you. Head size and body size count when considering your hairstyle, whether it is an everyday or an evening 'do. Your hairstyle must be proportion to the rest of your body. Face size is another thing to consider. For ex, if you have a long face you don?t want a tight pull back up do. This might just make your face appear longer and large. Pick a hairstyle that will bring out your best facial feature, while matching the richness style of your beautiful dress. Remember the importance of prom hairstyles to coordinate with the prom dress. Hence, there should be the perfect balance between the hairstyle, prom dress and other accessories before going on the prom night in order to look stunning and sexy. Consider the following when choosing your hair do for prom:Face shape- Various hairdo?s flatter different face frames.Round face- If you have a round face, experts recommend up do?s, as they can lengthen the appearance of your face, making it longer and thin.Long large face- For long large head frame, it is recommended that they do half updo?s or simply wearing there hair loose with some light curles, giving a romantic yet sexy look.Small face, with long thick hair- Avoid having your hair surrounding your face, this can hide your face shape, and make your head appear even smaller! Try a french twist half up do. This will bring out your eyes and cheekbones, and show your strong beautiful features. 2. Body Frame- Your hairdo should equal your body size, proportion is the key.Petite- Try the ?romantic look?. This style typically looks good on everyone, however on a petite frame, it can bring out a more fuller look. To achieve this look, start off by putting your hair in hot rollers, if however you don?t have hot rollers, grab medium curling iron, and a large one. Use the large rollers underneath, and the medium rollers on the top to give it a soft, sensual wave. While hair is rolled, use light hair spray to spray over it. Let hair set in the rollers, until cool to the touch. While your curls are set, using your fingers or a wide comb to separate the and soften curls into a wave, do not brush it out.Tall and curvy figured- It is recommended that you may need more volume to balance your particular figure. You might want to consider, wisps or curls or an even half up do. Your particular up do will of course depend upon your face shape. So if you have a smaller shaped head, you may not want to put hair pulled back. You want to be able to give the effect of a more proportioned head size.Heavy Frame- Two looks for a heavy set girl is a glamour look with a straight part to one sided gloss pomade. First is to leave hair straight and decorated with jewel pins above the ear on the parted side. The second is to use pins to do an up do hairstyle. Gather all of your hair into a low ponytail and the base of your head and then twist it up into itself. Use fancy jeweled pins to secure any stray pieces and spray with a firm hold. The up-do tends to flatter heavy set girls. It works well to draw the eye up and create the illusion of height for both the short and heavy girl. 3. Types of hairstyles-Up dos are the most recognized hair option, but there still room for variation Formal dresses works well with a sleek full up do.Braids can be simple or fancy. A french braid is sophisticated and elegant. Or you can opt for an up do coiled braids.Long, flowing soft curls works great for prom. Think loose waves cascading down your back.French twist works well with elegant stunning dresses. Like a bun, you can wear yours sleek or let tendrils frame yor face.Click here to play

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Hourglass- Hourglass figures are usually the number one shape, most girls desire. They mostly look good in anything. Statistics show that men usually favor and prefer women of this form. HUH! And I want an ultra buff dude. If you were born with that body, then you got it made from day one. Hourglass shapes have:Full bust and hips Well defined waistWide shouldersShapely long legsRound- Round shapes usually have an extra layer of jiggle over the mid section, and there waistline being the largest in there body. A drop waist and a low neckline can make the body look longer and slimmer. A low neckline helps enhance the bust. Empire cut dresses flatters this form because it beautifies there shape in a slender form, and lengthens the body and figure overall. Flared skirts also work well to decrease jiggle in your mid section. Round shapes have:Wide Neck Wide Rib CageRoundish backThick waistNarrow lower hipsStraight/Athletic- Straight shapes usually have an athletic build to them, somewhat of a boyish figure. They have large shoulders, and a muscular exterior. They have subtle curves. Boys like to have these girls by there sides because of there rough edge and there hint of masculinity. Some girls enjoy being a tomboy, but for that special day, these dresses can embrace there femininity they were born with. A-line dresses that are slightly fitted will help add volume and curves. Choose a neckline that will accentuate your bust such as halter tops. Try to avoid wearing tight fitting dresses that will display your square boyish frame. A dress that has a waistline with heavy decoration and detail will add more curves to your waist area. Straight shapes have:Average bustLarge rib cageFlattish bottomUndefined waistShoulders and Hips are just same widthPear- Pear shapes usually are targets for attention. Most guys want there women with junk in there trunks, and have there bottom ridiculously big. Pear shapes typically have an average top, heavy round bottoms and large hips. To balance out those proportions for prom, try slimming down on your bottom, and play up your top half. Choose dresses with empire waist. Choose semi loose fabric that will skim and smooth out your shape. A-line dresses are also a good selection for this body shape, because it lengthens the legs. Pear shapes have:Slender neckSmall shouldersSmall bustNarrow rib cageFull thighsWide lower hipsNarrow and well defined waistClick here to play

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Size- Size is an important factor when shopping for a prom dress. This is an important event for a young girl. This will be one of the most memorable day that they will cherish, so it is vital that they look presentable and unforgettable. While shopping for a dress, girls will buy a dress from the way it looks hanging from a hanger or on a mannequin. It is essential that they try it on! Do not get floored by the beauty of the dress only. It is better to have a fitting dress, which can flatter and enhance your curves, then have a beautiful one that might just make you look unattractive, and unpresentable. Take your measurements (measure yourself bare, gives more accurate results) and try various style dresses to decide what dress size suits you. You want to be able to breathe, and dance like a human being without having to suck in your stomach, and deprive yourself of eating on that big day, so don?t wear an ultra tight fitting dress. And on that same note do not get a dress that it too loose fitting either, you want to be able show your sexy curves, and getting a loose fitting dress will only cover up and disguise some of your best features. If you are a little on the heavy side, you can go to a designer and have a dress specially made fitted for you.Body Shape- I would have to admit this is one of the most essential part in shopping for a Prom Dress. All of us come in different shapes and sizes. Take down your height, and measure your body (measure yourself bare for accurate results) and decide what style cut would best flatter your figure. For ex, if you have an average frame with a heavy bottom, you would want to look for a dress that will focus more on your top, and your slender waistline. Ball dresses and A line dresses will be great dresses to disguise and slender your heavy bottom. The dress you wear should compliment your profile. Remember to give yourself a close look in the mirror, this will help you to understand the shape of your body, and assist you on how to buy the perfect prom dress.Pattern- The pattern, and style cut of the dress are also points worth paying attention to. Because a definite pattern or a cut can make you look completely different, it is important that you look your best by choosing the appropriate fabric and style. For instance, a long straight flow of a prom dress can make you look long, appealing and slender. However, if you are short and want to look taller, wearing a long vertical pattern might make you look even more shorter! So its best to search for a dress with an empire cut, this will take the emphasis of the waistline and create an elongated line, giving the illusion that you are taller.Click here to play

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Which one are you? Choose your body type and be prepared to see what dress style embraces your body!Tall & Slender with no visible curves and small bust-Empire Cut- This will give the illusion of a fuller chest. It will transform your body into a feminine hourglass.Ball skirt or A line Dress- This will add fullness to your slender shape, making your body look more shapely and defined. Dresses with heavy details and patterns help break your long slim figure, and add more character to your form. Also an open neckline, a cut out back or plunging V neck will work great with you.Small frame with slight curves and average bust-Empire Cut- This will take the emphasis of the waistline and create an elongated line, also try to wear a dress with a short hemline and you can instantly look taller. Create a taller look with an column style sheath dress. Showing off your legs, and try wearing hi low, or asymmetrical dresses can make your silhouette look longer.Curvy figure with a narrow waist, average to big bust, and round bottom-Sheath- This will show off your curvy figure, embracing your figure shape. This type of dress will accentuate your body in all the right places.A-line/Ball Dress- Want to hide those wide round hips? An A-line or ball dress will disguise your round bottom and will draw attention upward. Try a strapless bodice ball dress with a full skirt and cinched waist. This will keep eyes above the waistline.Heavy frame, noticeable curves-A- line dresses- A line dresses usually don?tcling to every curve. A line dresses usually makes the waist look slim, and gently flows around your lower body. Ball Dresses- Ball Dresses will offer more bottom coverage. Ball gowns with corset waist will highlight your torso and disguise a full round bottom. The full skirt will hide any unwanted weight in the legs and thighs.Medium frame with heavy bottom-A-line/Ball Dress- This will keep the focus on your top, then it will on your voluptuous bottom. Flatter your top with dresses that will accentuate your best assets. Strapless bodices are the best choice for your body type. It you have a great bottom and aren?t afraid to show it off, wear a dress with ruffles or other accents in the back to draw attention to your bottom.Heavy mid section, large waist-Empire Cut- Empire or drop waist/no waist looks best on this type of figure. The high waist de emphasizes the mid section and lengthens your overall silhouette, giving you a slimming effect.Large frame, H body type, with subtle curves. Broad shoulders, with toned legs-Empire Cut- This will add shape and personality to your silhouette. A full skirt and and a tight fitting corset will instantly highlight your waistline, giving you an hourglass feminine shape.Medium frame, with wide, toned shouldersStrapless/Ball dress- Dresses that bare shoulders and back are sexy and attractive. Covering your wide shoulders will only make them look bigger. Strapless dresses with a slender bodice looks best. it pleasantly exposes your shoulder and trims your mid section. Try wearing a a strapless gown with a heart shaped bodice. The contour will flatter and focus attention on your sexy toned arms. Keep your hair out of your face, wear your hair up for a complete flaunting of your upper body.Short or tall with Big bustA line/Ball dress- This will display a sexy bust.A dress with plunging neckline displays a hint of cleavage, but try to get a dress with wide straps to hide your bra. If the dress is a strapless, wear a bra that provides adequate support to give shaping to your big and sexy breast.Short or tall with an A cup or smaller-Ball gown- This will add more detail giving your body a fuller shape. Also a heavy decorated bodice will add shape and definition to your bust line. If the bodice is strapless it must be tightly fitted for limited mishaps.Click here to play

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Chiffon- Made out of silk, rayon, cotton, synthetics. Chiffon is lightweight, transparent, and sheer. The tightly yarns could be either in the filling or the warp or both. The material is very strong, despite the filmy and lumpy look. Chiffon looks best on hourglass and tall and slender figures. Chiffon beautifully outlines, and hugs silhouette of body. Its delicate with a soft finished, often layered because of its transparency. Popular in over skirts, sheer sleeves and wraps.Organza- Made of silk and rayon. Organza is a fine, sheer, crisp fabric. It has somewhat of a wiry and rough feel. It has a dressy type of fabric; sometimes it has a silvery sheen. Organza has a stiffer texture similar in effect to tulle but more loose and flowing. Popular for skirts, sleeves, dresses, and overlays.Satin- Made of silk, rayon, synthetics. Satin usually has a lustrous, soft surface. It?s made in a variety of colors, weights, and qualities. Satin is a very elegant material, moves beautifully with most body types. It?s a heavy smooth fabric with a high sheen on one side, very common in prom and bridal gown.Tulle- Made of silk, nylon, and cotton. Tulle has a hexagonal mesh, a very stiff material. It is stately type of fabric when used for formal wear and weddings. Also popular in quincenera dresses. Tulle dresses are great for disguising large hips, and heavy bottoms.Taffeta- Made of silk, rayon, and synthetics. Taffeta is made in solid colors, fancy prints, watered designs, and variable effects. It is smooth with a stiff sheen surface. The textures vary considerably.Click here to play

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Shopping online will give you more opportunities to browse and search semi formal dresses, prom dresses, or bridesmaid?s dresses. It also gives you a chance to get a prom dress that no one else has. There?s also a good chance of getting a size or a certain color of a dress that your local store may not carry.Shopping online can also reduce the risk of someone having the same dress as yours. Most females don?t want to attend the same formal event wearing the same dull dress. Shopping online offers new, cheap, latest fashion dresses that you?ll love. From cute cocktail short dresses for semi formal events, to modern and sexy dresses that will certainly make heads turn!Shopping online can also make you open minded to trying on dresses you never would've given a chance. You might not have liked the way it looked on the movie star, but it just might look better on you. Shopping for your dress online, will venture your mind into different style dresses, and cuts.Its easy shopping online, and there are no hassle returns. We recommend that you shop for your dress 3 weeks before your wear date. That way it can give you enough time to receive the dress, make alterations, or exchange the dress for another.Shopping online is secure, convenient and affordable. Size charts are easy to use and accurate. Selection, quality and low prices make online stores the perfect destination if you?re shopping for formal and special occasions dresses and accessories.Online shopping also offers a wider variety of selections in one place. Buying prom dresses online is one of the easiest and least time consuming ways to shop.You can purchase cheap prom dresses, a designer prom dress, a discount prom dress, plus size prom dress and formal prom dresses with just a click of a button.Click here to play

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Q:I?m not a fashionable person, I don?t know what dress will look best on me, what should I do?A:First measure yourself, bust,waist and hips. Determine what style cut looks best on your figure type. Everyone has a best feature, whether it is skin, teeth, hair, or legs. Find a dress that will bring those features out and enhance it. Go to stores you?ve never shopped at before, try on dresses that you always want to wear but were afraid to try on. Or better yet, bring a friend with you and get a second opinion!Q:I?m short! What kind of dress can give me personality or flatter my body?A:Short girls should wear fitted silhouettes and short flirty dresses.Q:I?m a brunette, is there any dress that can make me bring out my face and skin tone?A:Brunettes usually look good in warm colors such as engine red and coral.Q:I have a round body type; my waist is the largest part of my body. What can I do to make my waist look slender?A:Look for dresses that will de emphasize the mid section of your body. Look for drop waist, or no waist dresses. Also, wear accessories to draw attention to accentuate your gorgeous legs and arms.Q:I don?t have any curves, and my body is somewhat like an H body type, I?m on the heavy side! What can I do to look 10-15 pounds slimmer?A:There are a number of things you can do! Starting with the colors you wear, everyone cant pull off black, so wear neutral solid colors such as deep gray, wine, raisin, burgundy, forest green, russet, midnight blue, etc. Also pick dresses that have a slight empire waist so that it can make your lower body look longer and slender. Try not to wear materials that will clingy, or be tight around your body, but rather dresses that will skim along the outline of your body. Wearing accessories such as long necklaces will make your neck look longer and slimmer, or hair that is pulled up or swept up off the neck.Q: I got too much junk in the trunk, and it does not look flattering or sexy! How can I hide it?A:Guys like junk in the trunk! But I can see how that might cause attention when you?re getting your groove on the dance floor. Usually strapless corset ball dress or a bouffant dress with a full skirted style will hide your butt. A slim waistline, plus a flared skirt equals a sexy hourglass figure. Try not to go to for clingy material that will hug your figure, usually tight fitting satin dresses. This will only make your butt look biggerQ:I?m skinny with no real curves! I?m a bit on the flat side with no bust, what can I do to make my bust look full, and make my body look shapely?A:There?s not a girl out there that doesn?t have that feminine sexiness in them! You have it; you just have to know your best feature, so you can bring it out! Consider showing yours off in a fitted style like a sheath, or an A line dress. It'll show off your slender frame while also creating the illusion of curviness with a fuller skirt. Try to stay away from strapless prom dresses; if your collar bone immensely shows, it will only make you look thinner.Q:I've decided what dress I?m going to wear for prom, its going to be a gorgeous ball dress, somewhat like a princess dress. It?s decorated with sequins, and it?s gathered at the waist with a beautiful shining pendent. It also has a corset top. What kind of accessories would look best with it?A:Sounds like the dress already has enough style and class. What I mean by this is when shopping for a prom dress; make sure you make the accessories or the prom dress the focus, not both. When you have a dress that is decorated beautifully with beads, ruffles, layered satin bust, or a front waist sash, you should try to limit the accessories that will be worn with the dress. If you wear too much of both, it will make the dress look cheesy, loosing its original beauty. So in a situation where the dress has enough decorations or is rich in design, have more self control and limit the accessories. Click here to play

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The top prom dress style for the year are:Movie star style- 2008 latest fashion include one shoulder Grecian gown and empire waist dresses.Elegant Dress- A cool cocktail dress look. Whether it is an aristocratic circle skirts or sleek trimmer hems. It will still make you look stunning, and attractive.Princess Look- Usually has long elegant trains, or a small drape called a duster, or a full on train called a chapel. Covering Dress- Looks similar to movie star style dresses, there very comfortable and stunning to wear, however these dresses need accessories to enhance its beauty.High low dress- Great dress for prom because it?s short and sexy in the front, which will allow you to dance. And the tail gives it an elegant and dressy taste.Strapless Dress- Strapless dresses usually can flatter any figure type. It looks stunning and classy, doesn?t require any necklace or small accessories. Homecoming Queen- The ultimate Cinderella dress. Usually a bouffant dress or a ball dress. These dresses usually require minimal accessories because there so show stopping. You don?t want too much accessories when the dress is rich in color and style.So whatever style you choose, make sure you pick one that complements your body style. Click here to play

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