Prom is not just about the dress. A great dress is your centerpiece, but without the proper context, it can easily fall flat.

Hair, makeup, accessories and poise are just as crucial when it comes to being polished and picture perfect to celebrate a great American milestone. The look of your gown does set the tone for your overall look, but remember that you choose the dress; it doesn't choose you. So if you aren't interested in wearing much makeup, don't pick a dress in a vibrant color that can upstage you. Or if you want to go wild with orange lips, don't opt for a pale pink dress (unless, of course, you're going for the counterculture vibe).

But usually, promgoers are looking to show off their best selves as they venture toward the final chapter of that nebulous young-adult spectrum. So aim for sophistication, no matter what your genre. Whether you go steamboat punk or Hollywood glam, do it in high style, and pay attention to the details. It's not a bad way to go about dressing and preparing for any special occasion.

By Debra D. Bass | St. Louis Post-Dispatch