Get It Right When Shopping for a Homecoming Dress

Although homecoming is mostly about rooting for the home team at the big game, school spirit, and having a great time with friends and classmates, we girls know that the most important part of the whole entire night is our dress and what exactly we'll be wearing for this monumental event. The homecoming dance is the perfect excuse to get all dolled up, feel like a princess and make memories that will last a lifetime – but how do you decide what kind of dress to wear?

Even before taking your figure and your own personal tastes or style into consideration, find out what the overall theme or formality level of the dance will be. While prom is almost always a formal affair, homecoming dances can range from the casual to dressy casual and from formal to semi-formal. If this is your first homecoming at the school, ask around to get an idea of what other girls are planning to wear. If you're starting to look for your dress earlier than everyone else, ask a teacher or guidance counselor what to expect in terms of formality. Once you know that, you're ready to begin your quest for the perfect homecoming dress.

Here are four popular styles of dresses often worn to special occasions like the homecoming dance and the figures they're best suited for:

1. Empire Waist: The classic empire waist dress is great for almost every figure and it never seems to go out of style. Empire waist dresses may be sleeveless or have capped sleeves, spaghetti straps or halter-necks, and the hemlines will vary from floor-length gowns to dresses that fall around the knees.

2. Halter-Necks: Halter-neck dresses are perfect for showing off your shoulders and emphasizing the upper body. Halter-necks are available in all lengths and colors. Some feature embellishments like sequins or jewels, while others are plain but just as beautiful. Wear your hair either up or down with this style of dress and don't forget the necklace and earrings.

3. Sheaths: Sheaths are clingy, figure-hugging dresses that show every single curve – and every single flaw as well – so if you're choosing this type of gown or dress, make sure you have the figure to pull it off. You won't need many accessories with this style of dress as they tend to make a statement all of their own. Wearing an elegant, but understated necklace and some dangly earrings to match are enough to do the trick.

4. Shifts: Inspired by the 1960s, the shift dress has once again made a comeback and is great for homecoming as they can either be ultra glamorous or a bit on the plain side. While shorter shifts are great for showing off your legs, they're also good for hiding a few figure flaws and can work well with either simple flats or with spiky stilettos. Play up the dress with glitzy accessories, or stay casual yet chic, depending on your own personal style.

Whatever style of homecoming dress you choose, remember to keep an open mind and try on a few different styles before making your ultimate decision. Do your research and you'll be sure to find the right dress that looks great on you, helping to make your homecoming night as special as possible.