Prom 2012 Trends

Soft purples and every shade of champagne were present on the Oscars red carpet this year, setting the standard for this year’s formal wear. You can also search for dresses in soft yellow, baby pink and gold to be totally on trend.

Dakota Fanning’s dresses are all about ivories and neutrals.

If bright and bold is your thing, go for a hue that’s in the pink or purple rainbow. Bright mango, hot pink and royal purple are the trendy vibrant colors for 2012.

See more prom trends for 2012.

Hi-Low hems are back and as flirty as ever. These asymmetrical hemlines are the best of both worlds- short in front to show off your legs and heels, long in back for a dramatic finish. You’ll want to twirl, dance and work your swagger in this dress.

This dress silhouette returns for prom nearly every year, and in 2012 it’s all about finding the classic ball gown that’s right for you. Show off in a strapless sweetheart neckline, or go for a trendier one-shoulder look. These gowns are fitted until the waist, when they flare out and hit the floor. For a princess look go for a poufier skirt. Or, try a straighter skirt that moves for something sleeker.

Ombre, when a dress fades from one color into another, is as eye-catching as it is trendy for 2012. There are as many ombre options as there are colors in the spectrum. My favorites happen to be the darker ombre dresses.

Watercolor, flowers and dainty swirls are some of my favorite prints for prom. Choose one that fits your personality. Bold ladies will like bright splashes of color, while more preppy gals might go for tiny flowers. For a Taylor Swift-esque moment, choose a champagne gown with neutral swirls of sparkle.

Well-placed sequins, beading and jewels can turn a simple dress into a prom-worthy gown perfect for the dance floor. Sequins are oh-so-glam, will reflect off the DJ’s lights and camera flashbulbs. Shimmery gowns look gorgeous after dark and will ensure that all eyes are on you.

Ever since Kate Middleton’s royal wedding last year, the world has been fascinated with headpieces. A rhinestone headband or a feather fascinator-like headpiece are the “it” accessory for 2012. They’re not quite a prom tiara, but can add drama and detail to your updo. Get it right with these tips: How to wear a prom headband.

Say goodbye to monochrome shoes. In 2012 it’s all about pumps that sparkle, open-toed strappy heels embellished with a bow, or two-tone heels that play off the colors in your dress. Just make sure you break them in well before the dance- blisters are never a good accessory.

Get more advice on prom accessories.

Soft curls and waves are always a hit, but they’re more for a sweet sixteen or homecoming. Prom is all about being formal, and your hair should match. Try sweeping your hair into a low side-chignon, weaving your hair into an upside-down French braid that culminates in curls, or a creating two mini braids that meet at the back and are surrounded by a cascade of ringlets.

More fab photos of prom hair:

• Formal Hairstyles for Prom and Homecoming
• Homecoming Hairstyles for Long Hair
• Homecoming Hairstyles for Short Hair
• Curly Updo Hairstyles for Prom and Homecoming