Prom dress

Photo: G.G. Rockwell

Your wish “My daughter, Dylan, wants to find an amazing prom dress and she likes chic, powerful and elegant looks. We’re looking for a black strapless with tulle full skirt—no bubble-gum colors or sequins. Of course, her taste runs expensive, but I have a budget of $200–$300. She saw a short Phillip Lim dress with zippers but it was $900, so back to reality.” —Kathe Stoepel, Wilmette

Our command Dylan is one sophisticated senior—for prom she’s pining after one of Phillip Lim’s understated but distinct designs. And if you’re gonna drop a chunk of change on a prom dress, make sure it’s something you can wear again. At a reasonable $168, this sunny, yellow French Connection (835 N Michigan Ave, 312-932-9460) frock is a definite departure from the all-black standard but doesn’t enter prom-Barbie territory. A trendy bow highlights the waist without being overbearing or obnoxious. Before Mr. Lim romanced Dylan with his winding zippers, Kathe says her daughter wanted a strapless black number with a full skirt. Betsey Johnson comes to the rescue with her Classic Burnout Dress, complete with layered sheer tulle in the dramatic skirt. The dress’s sleek pleated top creates textural contrast and finishes in a flattering sweetheart neckline ($325, revolveclothing.com). A third option fulfills the prom girl’s criteria: out of the ordinary? Check. Amazing? Double check. Milly’s bold update on the little black dress consists of a luxe ostrich-feather skirt paired with a simple fitted bodice and will go seamlessly from knockout prom dress to future formal events ($221, chickdowntown.com).—Emily Torem

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