As prom season descends upon America, millions of young girls rush out to stores and websites to find the perfect dress to match the most important night of their adolescent lives. Prom, formally known as promenade, is an American tradition that dates back to the 1800’s. Teenagers, and their parents, add about $4 billion to the economy during prom season all for the one special night.

In recent years, girls have been opting out for short prom dresses instead of the traditional long dresses. However, junior Leanne Machorton had a differing opinion. “I think floor length dresses look better because prom is supposed to be a little bit more fancy than homecoming and it has more of that fancy feel.” Other styles that are popular this season include backless, vintage style, and one-shoulder dresses. When buying a dress, there are also many factors to take into consideration. “[I think] if I will look absolutely stunning when I walk in,” said senior Hannah James. Along with looking stunning; color, style, and budget are also important factors.

Because prom is held in the spring, prom dresses that are brightly colored tend to be popular among teens. Last year during prom season, pastels dominated the scene. “The color of the year is  like an electric orchid, but trending right now there is coral and mints,” said Machorton. Some of the biggest colors of 2014 are soft pink, pistachio, purple, and turquoise. Classic colors like black, red, and champagne are making a comeback as well.

Next to the dress, the most important thing is the bling. The perfect dress deserves the perfect accessories. “I’ll probably wear earrings a necklace because [my dress] is strapless,” said senior Abi Nelson. This year it seems that it is all about who can wear the biggest necklace and earrings. Oversized jewelry is one of the most popular trends of 2014. Also this year, it looks like pearls will be taking a backseat to gems and rhinestones.

For ladies who plan on taking a date, the one most commonly agreed upon is that the date should match, more or less. “We can’t clash. But we don’t have to be matchy, like complementary,” said Machorton. Complementary color matches rather than completely matching is aesthetically pleasing to the eye and can set you apart from the monotony of all the other couple who just plain match. And for the ladies and gentleman who don’t have dates, it is 2014. You don’t have to have a date to go prom, rather go with friends and have the night of your life.

Prom is a once, or twice, in a lifetime event, so it essential to make the most out of it.  Don’t be afraid to splurge a little because there are few times in life where memories will be made to last a lifetime  Finding the perfect dress and accessories are crucial, but having fun is just as important.