High School Prom tips and ideas from a Senior Photographer in Pittsburgh, PA.
Don't forget to get your Senior Portraits captured in your Prom Outfit
How to get ready for Prom? Senior Pictures in Pittsburgh
To get ready for your prom night can be exciting and a little overwhelming at the same time! There are so many decisions to make from finding your date, to picking out a perfect dress, hairstyles, salon appointments, accessories, etc.
The first thing to think about is that do you wish to go with a date or planning on going single with your friends.
Tip #1 - Finding your perfect gown/tuxedo
Finding your perfect outfit can be a little stressful and you are definitely not alone! Whatever your budget might be, you can easily find beautiful prom dresses in local bridal boutiques or online. It's better to shop your dress at least a month or two in advance, so you would have ample time to find coordinating shoes, and accessories. This will also give you enough time to get some alterations done if needed.
Silhouette - While picking out the silhouette of your prom dress, it is important to consider your body type so it looks flattering on you. Then give a thought to style, is it going to be a short dress or a long one? Next, consider the fit, do you like A-line, High Slit, Ballroom style, Corset, Bodycon, Mermaid, two-piece, or a Chic Jumpsuit/ Tux?
Color of your Prom Dress- Do you prefer bright, bold, pastel, or metallic colors? You won't go wrong with the color choices but make sure it enhances your complexion.
Fabric/work of your Prom Dress - There are so many beautiful options available these days! Flowy satin, sheer, lace, sequin, glitter, elegant tulle, etc.
Neckline - Do you like strapless, one shoulder, halter, tank, or spaghetti strap?
If you are shopping locally, and prefer to try out the dresses in person, and have a stylist by your side, I have put together a list of some local stores/boutiques in Pittsburgh area below-
There are also some budget-friendly department stores everywhere. Here are the names of a few department stores to get you started with- Macy's, Nordstrom, JCPenney's, Dillard's, etc.
Tip #2 - Choosing Right Under-Garments
The last thing you want to do is to draw negative attention to an otherwise stunning dress.
Next, head to the intimates section to pick out your bra and underwear that will help you look your best, and would look seamless without showing any lines!
Pick a bra that gives you full support especially if your dress is strapless or backless.
Pick a seamless underwear in a color that won't show through.
If your dress is sheer, you may need a slip to go underneath as well.
Tip #3 - Finding coordinating jewelry, shoes and accessories
Now that you have your dress picked out, look for a few other things that will compliment your look.
Jewelry- Check if you have any jewelry at home that matches well with your dress. Most department stores or vintage jewelry shops carry beautiful jewelry at a reasonable price.
To enhance your style, you can wear tiaras and some jewel-studded hair clips.
Shoes to match your dress- Heels always look cute, but make sure you are able to walk in them and can wear them for a long period. Prom night would not go as planned if you are uncomfortable walking. As a backup plan, it is good to carry a pair of comfortable shoes like ballet flats with you.
Bag or a clutch- Pick out a cute bag or a clutch to bring along for carrying all the essentials such as keys, a cellphone, money, makeup, etc.
Coat or a shawl- If you live in an area where the spring weather can be unpredictable, grab an overcoat or cover-up to put on your shoulders if it is cold outside.
"Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak" Rachel Zoe
Tip #4 - Corsage and Boutonniere
A corsage is a bouquet of flowers worn on a woman's dress or worn around her wrist.
A boutonnière is a floral decoration worn by men, typically a single flower or bud.
Don't forget to order your corsage and boutonniere ahead of time. They can be ordered from any local floral shops in your area. You and your date can decide on the details.
Tip #5 - Hair, Make-up & Nails
Doing-it-yourself- There are tons of online tutorials if you plan to do it yourself. Practice your hair and makeup ahead of time with your dress and accessories so you are not playing with your look at the last minute.
At a Salon- If you are planning on getting your hair, makeup, and nails done at the salon, it is advised to book your appointments a month in advance as salons book pretty quickly during the Prom season.
Hair and makeup appointments should be scheduled the morning /early afternoon for the day of the Prom
Nail appointments are best to be scheduled a day or two before Prom night
Pinterest is a great place to look for ideas. Save the Pinterest boards of your desired looks/styles, or take some screenshots and bring those with you to the salon for the pro-artist to refer to. I am sharing a few links below to get you thinking...
Tip #6 - Get your tickets
It is better to get tickets as soon as possible. Usually, prom tickets go on sale a month or two in advance.
Tip #7 - Getting Prom Pictures
It is a big day for you! And, you need to document it. Usually, friends meet at someone's house or at another outdoor location to get some pictures with their dates and friends.
You can also hire a professional senior photographer to take your portraits in a dolled-up look!
Most importantly.... go have fun!!!
It is your special night, so relax and have fun! Even if it doesn't go as per your plan, just go with the flow and have fun to make some awesome memories with your friends. So what if your friend also wears the exact same dress or shoes, your hair comes a little loose or the corsage your date gives you doesn't match your dress? What matters most is... having the time of your life, so let loose and enjoy the night.
If you haven't booked your senior session yet, it's time to book one now before the actual season for senior pictures take off, and it is not so difficult to find a desired session date. I am booking Spring, Summer, and Fall senior sessions right now! We can also do a couple pictures in your prom dress as a part of your senior session experience. To learn more about the senior portrait sessions, click the button below. I look forward to working with you soon. 
Hey There, I am Sonali, a natural-light Fine-Art portrait photographer specializing in Tweens, Teens, and High School Seniors in Pittsburgh PA ​ My portraiture work is often described as Rich/ Classic/ Chic & Magical.
My mission is to help tweens, teens and young adults feel confident and beautiful by believing in their self-worth, one photo at a time!
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