A Prom Blast from the Past

The 1970s are still making a bold comeback all over the fashion scene. Everything ’70s, from shoes to purses to accessories to clothing, will be taking quite a few fashionistas on a nostalgic trip down memory lane, and introducing a very cool style to those checking out this trend for the first time. I wasn’t in charge of my own wardrobe back then, but I do recognize several fashion comebacks. It’s actually kind of cool, because I get to wear some of the stuff I may have been too young to wear or passed on the first time around.

If you’re still on the mad hunt and looking for a prom gown, one fun idea would be to take a trip back in time and work one of the ’70s trends for the prom: the “disco dress.” I didn’t actually own one of these numbers; my clubbing days came a little later down the road, but I do remember them vividly. Nothing said, “Let’s dance” better than a sleek and sexy body-skimming dress that moved with the music and caught every disco dancing light. You might be lucky and be able to raid a relative’s closet and dig out the real McCoy, but if not, you will have lots of fun shopping for this season’s version.

If you’re not familiar or don’t have a seasoned fashionista at your disposal to ask, here are a few tips on what you want to look for when you hit the stores.

1. Color. Black will definitely work, but since color is also a hot trend, you should check out one of this season’s bright or neon colors. Consider pink, red, purple, or perhaps an electric blue.

2. Style. There are several styles that were practically the uniform of a true disco dancing queen, look for off the shoulder with or without a ruffle, wrap dresses and asymmetrical details and hemlines. Slits on the side are also perfect for working this trend.

3. Fabric. If you remember one thing, it absolutely has to flow. Look for fabrics like silk, or polyester, or go with something form-fitting like jersey or spandex if you dare. Be sure to add a pair of strappy platform shoes or sandals. For jewelry, go with lots of bracelets, rings, and perhaps even tuck a flower in your hair. If you follow these tips, you’re sure to look like a dancing queen while you dance the night away.