Teens go for classic looks for high school prom

“Apparently, Gunne Sax dresses were all the rage in ’83, so that’s what (my mom) wore to prom,” she said. “Her date had a baby blue tux. Classy!”

Although trends come and go — and come back again — prom remains a defining moment of high school. The evening provides a rare opportunity to dress like royalty, teens say.

Baby blue tuxedos and feathered hairdos might not get you crowned king and queen, but a peek into the past offers some insight to the trends of the moment. Tanning is out. The Roaring Twenties are in. Heels are optional, the ’50s rock ‘n’ roll vibe is cool. And bohemian statement jewelry is a must.

These days, most teens insist on self-expression, said Sara Rogers, trend specialist for the Mall of America. “Just about anything goes for prom-wear,” she said.

Grecian goddess

Sophie Heyman, senior, Central Senior High School, St. Paul, Minn.

Prom … “Is something that everyone should do once.”

Self-expression is … “Very important. You have to stay true to yourself or you won’t have fun.”

Trends I love: “Emerald green dresses with gold jewelry. Concentrated sparkles, around the neckline usually.”

Best prom stores: “Department stores for jewelry and dresses. DSW for shoes. Etsy.com and promgirl.com are good websites for dresses.”

Tips for tall girls: “Pick a long dress that covers your shoes and wear flats. I’m 5-foot-9, so heels are a hazard.”

Getting ready … “Takes about three hours. My hair takes the long-est, but makeup and nails are a close second.”

Budget: “Under $200.”

Do: “Get a unique dress, wear jewelry and take pictures.”

Don’t: “Get a tan; order a dress without checking the details.”

Sophie’s look: Ivory chiffon dress with gold beading, $550, earrings, $32, Nordstrom; bracelets and headband, $12-$20, Aldo; DSW shoes, $50.

Girlie-glam grunge

Kali Mann, senior, St. Paul Conservatory for Performing Artists, St. Paul

Prom … “Takes time. I started looking for my dress around Christmas.”

Self-expression is … “Part of the fun. The most unique prom look I think I’ve ever seen was a short knee-length leather skirt and a white blouse. It was very beautiful and simple, but not at all a traditional prom look.”

Trends I love: “Vintage. I would love to have a long gold dress — a little ‘old Hollywood.’ “

Best prom stores: Modcloth, Anthropologie and Free People.

Budget: “$100-$150.”

Getting ready … “Takes four to five hours. I love to do hair and makeup and I want everything to look perfect, so I will take my time. Last year all my friends came over and we had a little spa day.”

Do: “Get a facial the day before; wear your shoes at least once before prom — your feet will thank you for it.”

Don’t: “Wear a large ball gown that’s going to get in the way or a dress so fancy that you’re going to be uncomfortable all night.”

Kali’s look: Black tulle and lace dress, $218, Cache; Dr. Martens boots, $149; Aldo earrings, $20; Cache clutch and bracelet, $98 and $78; Henri Bendel hair clip, $38.