Dress for Celebrating

by Judith Rasband

The big event is just weeks away. You can hardly wait, but what to wear? For LDS girls, the problem is triple. Pretty party dresses these days are not only hard to find and expensive; they often seem only partly put together, not because they aren’t fully sewn, but because there’s not much to some of them. But with a little imagination and knowing where to look, you can find alternatives.

Sew Nice

Of course, you could sew something—a dress that’s really terrific and not too tight for your figure or your budget. But what if you can’t and don’t have anyone willing to do it for you. Sewing a beautiful prom dress is certainly an option, but it’s not the only choice you have.

Something Borrowed or Rented

Check out your mother’s or grandmother’s closets. Hidden in the back you might find something interesting. Everyone tends to keep the really beautiful outfits from the past packed away somewhere. Those fashionable clothes they wore when they were young just might look terrific when updated with modern jewelry or a belt. Or stores that sell vintage clothing may have something that would look great on you. Formals and suitable bridesmaids’ dresses can sometimes be rented inexpensively.

Catalogs

If you have the time, ordering from catalogs can widen your options. Catalogs are chock-full of fun designs in a full range of prices, styles, and colors. If you ask, some catalog companies will allow you to order two or three sizes in the dress you want and return what doesn’t fit.

Go Ethnic

Wearing a garment from another culture can add a note of adventure. A kimono from the Orient might look great worn like a duster over flowing black pants and top. Or the large Japanese sash, or obi, in brocade can transform a simple skirt and top into a dress fit for a prom. Or wear a sari from India over a simple outfit.

Think Creative

Wear something a little different than the traditional formal. How about long, flowing white pants with a matching blouse or jacket.

Try a big beautiful scarf or a square of fantastic fabric draped over an otherwise basic dress.

Accessorize that same basic dress with long strands of faux pearls.

You do have the choice of enjoying yourself and looking great at a party or dance and still dressing modestly.