ALTHOUGH a number of girls have already purchased their gowns and accessories for graduation ball, TEENage knows that there are some who are still unsure as to what they’ll be wearing or even where to start with the hunt. Not to mention the gentlemen, who sometimes assume that any shirt, pants, jacket combination will do fine.

While getting a full suit made may be costy for the guys, we definitely recommend that the ladies get a dress made that will not only be the colour and style you want, but also will perfectly complement you.

Generally the ladies can look for free-flowing fabrics that are in this season, as well as earthtoned trimmings and accessories to complete their look.

The gentlemen should aim for simple suit pieces with a textured colour or pocket, that will complement their shirt.

A little confused? Don’t worry, we’ve put together some excellent ideas inspired by the red carpet and your favourite TEEN celebs as well as some tips for choosing your pieces.

Ladies:

Light fabrics like chiffon, mesh and loose satin are very in this summer and bold or metallic colours are perfect if you feel adventurous to rock them.

Ombre is great for those who can’t quite choose a colour (particularly when you want to be sure your date complements your dress) and can be rocked different ways depending on how the fabric is cut to make the gown.

Draping, ruching and delicate splits can make a simple dress look extraodinary if they are done well; also keep an open mind with lace and sequins.

For short girls:

* If you decide to rock a mini dress, pair it with high heels to help give you some length.

* Long tulle skirts are cute, but slightly outdated, and they definitely don’t give as elegant a look as a flowing gown that can add some inches.

* Draping is in, and long sleek gowns compliment your shape without making you chunky especially if you’re short but curvy.

For heavy and apple-shape girls:

* Try an empire waist design that will define your bust and flow over the rest of your body.

* High necklines are perfect to camouflage big busts especially if it is complemented by a simple trim at the neck.

* Form-fitting drop waists with flowy skirts pronounce your waist especially with an eyecatching waistband.

* Look out for free-flowing fabrics to hug your bust while flowing easily over your hips.

* Choose delicate sleeves or shoulder details instead of details by your bust. This helps to draw attention to your face without drawing much of any attention to your bust.

* Avoid colours that are too bright on the upper body as they only attract attention.

For tall girls:

* Find a dress that complements each of your curves and emphasises your long silhouette

* If you have wide shoulders, try a one-shoulder dress or a dress with darker tones at the neck, but keep the neckline simple.

For curvy girls:

* Get a dress with a natural or drop waist, and avoid empire waist dresses.

* The traditional princess ball gown usually looks great on a curvy girl, as long as the colour of the gown complements your complexion.

* A defined waist is perfect especially with a sweetheart neck as it accentuates even the slightest curves.

For pear-shaped girls:

* Showing off your waist and shoulders is the way to go; once you find something to flow over your hips and thighs.

* Avoid the traditional princess gown that may make your hips even wider and cause you to look unbalanced.

* Opt for a strapless dress that flares naturally, possibly with detailing on the torso to add more to your upper body.

* Avoid waistlines that are too high and instead go for your natural waist giving you more of an hour-glass figure.

* If you choose to draw attention from your mid-section, make the neckline of your dress interesting with the cut or with sequins, ruffles, rosettes or slight ruching.

Gents:

A three-piece suit is not necessary for a ball, but a basic shirt and pants combination can look plain beside your well-dressed date. Tailored pants are the best option and they are always better worn with a tailored vest, jacket or blazer.

This season textured and patterned materials (simple textures and patterns) help give the simple suit a ‘pop’, and if you aren’t feeling daring enough to wear a fully patterned suit, you can get the texture or pattern on just the collar or pockets.

Keep in mind that shorter gents should opt for a jacket instead of a blazer, as the length of the blazer can make you look even shorter. Thick guys on the other hand, can go for lower cut blazers that button by the waist. It will lengthen the torso and streamline your shape. Slimmer gents can choose a loosely fitted vest or jacket. If you happen to be both tall and slim, get a loosely-fitted jacket that fits.

Not all suits need a tie, and with a plaid or striped shirt, a well-tailored suit can do without one perfectly. Even with just a plain shirt underneath the fit of your suit can pull you together with little effort.

Sneakers and boots are definate no-no’s for the graduation ball, opt instead for simple dress shoes in black or brown ensuring that it complements the suit and matches the belt you are wearing.

With that said, TEENage expects to see fashion forward TEENs in outfits that fit them perfectly. Be sure to send in photos of you and your friends at ball… especially if your outfit was TEEN celeb inspired.