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Spring is here and high school girls across the country have been searching for the perfect prom dress. The guys have it easy: rent a tux, buy a corsage, and they are set for the night. They can be dressed stylishly without spending a lot of money, and away they go with a giddy, beautiful girl on their arm.

It is a little more difficult for girls, but it is possible to buy an attractive prom dress without spending a fortune. First, invest in a couple teen magazines, or take a look at your local library. If you have some idea of the styles and colors you are interested in before you shop, it can make the process much less overwhelming. When you look at the pictures of the latest prom dresses, think about what you want in a dress and the clothing characteristics that are most flattering on you. Consider your personal style and think about the best way to express it in a formal gown. Do you want a full length gown, tea length or something even shorter? Do you have a classic style or are you more trendy? How daring do you want the cut of the gown to be (or how daring will your mother let you be)? What colors do you think you look best in? A look through the existing clothing in your closet may help you figure it out; usually the items you love and wear often make you look really good. If the cut or color of a garment flatters you, maybe you can get a similar element in your prom dress. These are all important things to think about before you shop for a prom dress.

Where should you shop for your prom dress? You can find formal wear at bridal shops, department stores and boutiques. You should also consider some of the discount stores; many of them carry formal and semi-formal wear at substantially reduced prices. Since you are unlikely to wear your prom dress more than one night, factors such as longevity of style and sturdy construction are less important than they may be in every day wear. You may also find some formal attire at consignment or other used clothing stores. Since these items are frequently only worn once, they are usually in excellent condition even when they are used; just make sure you inspect it carefully for rips and stains since most used items are sold "as is" and cannot be returned to the store.

Hopefully, by the time you get to the first store you will have an idea of what you are looking for. On the other hand, you should also be open to new styles that you may not have considered. It is always helpful to shop with someone you like and trust. You not only get assistance; you have someone who will tell you if that aqua color washes you out or if that bow on the back really makes your rear look large. Ideally, take a friend and your mom or an aunt. This way, you'll get the stamp of approval from both generations on your purchase. If you find a store with a wide selection, go through the racks looking for items similar to what you had in mind. But, don't be afraid to pick up different things to try; it is worth the few minutes it takes to try something on if you discover a new look that makes you shine.

Once you are trying dresses on, look at yourself from all angles using the three-way mirrors. Try moving around a little in the dress. Does it expose too much cleavage when you bend over? Does it feel tight when you sit? Try some of your dance moves. Is your dress too constraining or does it move nicely with you?

If you find a dress you think might be right, most stores are willing to hold it for you for a little while. This lets you shop a little more, just to be sure you have picked the right option. Also, if it is a name-brand dress, check competing department stores to see if anyone else has the same one on sale. Remember, whatever you are wearing the glow you will get from having fun will make you more beautiful than any piece of clothing can, so have fun and enjoy your special night.