The dress shape originated in America in the 1950s, when the fashion for full skirts took off at the same time as the growth of teenage pop culture and the popularity of the college prom. These days, all over the world, the prom dress has become fashion shorthand for party dress, especially when it comes to school and college formals, but you don’t need an excuse to break-out the prom dress from your fitted wardrobe (top tip: mirrored wardrobe doors from Sliderobes are also great for admiring your full-length look in).

The traditional prom dress is a strapless gown with a full-circled knee-length skirt that can come in all kinds of fabrics, from cotton to starched tulle, some with full tops, some with bodices. Wear prom dresses with stilettos or kitten heels, chunky bracelets and a delicate necklace (so it won’t detract from your décolletage).

Prom hairstyles should be kept fairly simple, as all the emphasis should be on your dress. Long, straggly hair can sometimes look messy with such a structured frock but a sleek, high ponytail will look chic with the minimum of fuss. With just a little bit more effort, a loose beehive will look ultra-sexy and fabulous. Wearing your hair up also means you can show off a long neck with dazzling drop ear-rings.

Evening dresses are amongst the most glamorous outfits you can have in your wardrobe, but if the princessy prom look isn’t for you, or you don’t like flashing your legs, look at the range of glamorous maxi dresses available instead. Equally flattering, these can be dressed up or down, depending on whether you’re going to a summer BBQ with friends or enjoying a night on the town. Go for a bold pattern and don’t skimp when it comes to adding a tropical touch with chunky jewellery.