If you are a fan of shopping, you most definitely know the feeling of visiting a thousand stores, trying on a million dresses, running around like a crazy person, and likely making yourself lightheaded by the end to find the perfect dress.

It’s obvious that seeking a prom dress does not come easily. Luckily, I’ve got you covered if you’re preparing for Nonnewaug’s prom May 19. These are five simple steps to find the perfect dress!

Know Your Color

Each of us has a color we feel we look best in as well as a color that we cannot stand to wear. When you go in to look for a dress, have a color in mind that you are looking for.

For example, if you are someone who has a pale complexion, a black dress might not be the best option for you, as it takes away all the natural blush from your skin tone. Instead, try on an emerald green or a golden yellow to brighten your skin. If you are someone who is indecisive, then opt for a white-colored dress — white looks good on everybody. 

Sometimes, Less Is More

I know that you have heard this phrase over and over, whether from a Vogue Beauty Secrets video or an Audrey Hepburn movie, but it’s true. Less is truly more. We don’t always need to wear the most over-the-top ball gown we find, no matter how badly we want to look like a character from Bridgerton. For a minimalist feel, a simple silk dress can give you the flawless look you hope to achieve. 

Make an Inspiration/Pinterest Board

The best way to organize your ideas is by creating some sort of inspiration board. Pinterest is an easy and efficient way to organize and preserve your ideas in different categories, so you have a physical record of your thoughts. You can browse different styles, colors, silhouettes, and even designers. If you are unsure about what type of dress you are looking for, Pinterest is a great place to derive inspiration from. 

“I actually have a Pinterest board of inspiration so that I know the vibes that I want,” says Nonnewaug senior Ava Witte. “When I shop for a dress, I always like to go in with a style in mind.”

Spend Time Shopping Around

Finding a dress through online shopping is very common — believe me, I know! However, when you decide to shop for a prom dress, it’s best to go in person and try on different styles. Through this process, you are going to be able to see what looks good on you, what doesn’t, what you like, and what you don’t like.

“When I first went in [to the store], I didn’t have a specific style in mind,” says Rebecca Varnum, a senior. “I knew that I wanted an emerald green dress, and through trying on different styles I was able to find the dress for me.”

Be You

Last but not least, shop for yourself! Remember, this is your prom experience — make it count!

This is the opinion of Chief Advocate reporter Megi Gorka.