Prom Trends for 2009

Along the neckline, around the arms, tiered at the waist... with so many wonderful ways to incorporate ruffles, everyone will have their feathers ruffled this season. Keep in mind the bigger the ruffle, the bigger the impact.

Forget over-the-top sequins; this season, the detail is in the fabric in the form of subtly shimmery beading. From patterns (paisley, swirls, florals) to fancy trims (neckline, hem, straps), a little handicraft is surprisingly hip.

There's something about a one-shoulder dress, combining the edginess of a strapless with the elegance of a classic shift, that really reaches epic proportions. This trend doesn't stop with straps, though. Draping and ruching (gathering the material from one spot) in a slightly askew fashion is unexpectedly fabulous.

These certainly aren't your school uniform's pleats. There's a new volume emerging, and it's achieved through a pleated bodice and skirt, combined with a tidy little nipped-in waist. The result is a true show-stopper; if you don't like the spotlight, skip this number.

This dress gets its moniker from the sweet heart-shaped neckline. Popularized by Jessica Rabbit and every silver screen star since, this is a dress that manages to be as flirty as it is fashionable.