Themes, moods dictate 2002 prom trends

By Paula Rath
Advertiser Staff Writer

Four distinct themes have emerged for prom this year, according to Lavina Wong, fashion director of Macy's:

1. "Prom Prepster," inspired by debutantes and country club looks: dominated by black and white, accessorized with a string of pearls and cardigan sweaters with grosgrain ribbon.
2. "Vintage Vixen," a new way to wear vintage looks: full skirts overlaid with lace or tulle, ribbons and ruffles, accented with cameo or cross necklaces and crochet shawls.
3. "Club Kitten," a fun and funky approach to prom: one-shoulder or cut-out tops (always form-fitting), and plenty of glitter, beading and baubles. These looks are worn with high-heeled boots and clutch purses.
4. "White Hot Look": either a long and narrow column or a wide skirt, but always the barest top, all in white, from an angelic innocent to a hot and sexy vixen.

Sears sees prom as a two-layered look with a body of satin overlaid with a wisp of chiffon or organza. Floral prints are glitter-infused and color is de rigueur, from lavender and pink to turquoise and royal blue. There's only one rack of black at Sears this year. Silhouettes are fitted on top with either princess seams or empire waists with halter tops or spaghetti straps.

Rafael's look is clearly body-conscious with a cowl neckline and handkerchief hem. Black is still the biggest color story and the length is either below the knee or tea length — nothing to the floor.

Neiman Marcus features prom dresses by Sue Wong and Nicole Miller, and Laundry by Shelli Segal. Dresses are both short and long, in pastel floral prints and solid black. Fabrics are light and airy, flowing soft and feminine. Tiny straps are barely there on the shoulders. Asymmetrical hems finish off the romantic looks.