How to find the perfect prom dress

For those revising for their GCSEs and A-levels later this year, or those holed up in the library wrapping up their dissertations, the end-of-year prom or summer ball celebrations may seem far away, but, there is a light at the end of the educational tunnel.

Proms were unheard of in the UK around 15 years ago, but have since been a welcome celebration we've adopted from across the pond. Summer balls, as they're often called here, are now the highlight of the year for school and university-leavers. As well as a fun and special night celebrating the end of a no-doubt challenging year, it's also a welcome chance to dress up and wear the kind of glamorous look which is the ultimate antidote to a school uniform.

While the celebrations are months away, what better motivation to get you to the end of the line than starting the search for your new dress now?

Global fashion search platform Lyst notes that now is the best time to begin your hunt, as searches for prom dresses begin in January, so you'll want to get in on the action early, while the best selection is still available.

Give yourself a well-deserved break and follow this handy guide which will make shopping for yours much easier...

Keep an open mind

Nina Dobrev at the Critics Choice Awards; Rachel Brosnahan and Mandy Moore at the SAG Awards

Think 'prom dress' and it's likely a slinky fishtail-hemmed dress springs to mind, and while this is a popular option- Lyst notes that along with bandeau styles and two pieces, the fishtail is the most searched for style - don't rule out shorter or midi lengths for fear of not looking dressy enough.

Equally, form-fitted isn't the only shape to look into. A structured midi dress can be incredibly elegant, as can an empire-line dress, or a floaty maxi dress.

Try on a range of lengths and styles that you're comfortable with and take someone along with you whose opinion you trust, being sure to get that person to take a picture of you in each dress so you can see how you look in them.

Don't be afraid of colour

Lupita Nyong'o in Calvin Klein, and Claire Foy in Miu Miu at the Golden Globes 

Many of us naturally err towards the safety of black when it comes to evening dresses, and while there's no doubting the flattering and elegant prowess of an LBD, there's a lot to be said for a striking colourful number. I'd counsel you to move away from brights and instead adopt a chic colour palette of deep shades, like navy, emerald green, burgundy or violet, or pastels, like lemon, blush pink or pistachio which will have you looking chic and grown-up.

Be wary of your budget

Needle & Thread tulle embroidered dress, £210, Net-a-Porter; Saloni silk dress, £625, Matches Fashion; Satin slip dress, £35, Topshop

It's all well and good falling for a slinky deep purple Oscars-worthy gown complete with a small train and corset bodice, but how much wear will you actually get out of a dress like that? Even if it comes in at the £300 mark, wearing it twice still means quite an expensive cost-per-wear amount.

If you're keen on a designer name and a three or four digit price tag to match, it could be worth looking into luxury renting services, like Girl Meets Dress, which has a selection of stunning dresses from the likes of Self-Portrait and Alice + Olivia available to hire for as little as £59.

Look into alternatives

Silky jumpsuit, £200, Uterque; Self-Portrait star studded jumpsuit, £360, Matches Fashion

While a dress is of course the most obvious option for a prom, don't feel constrained. Should you feel more comfortable in trousers, a smart suit or an evening jumpsuit has just as much style kudos.

A jewelled colour helps it to feel prom-appropriate, and embellishment always adds a glamorous touch. This season, feathers have sprung up on the hems of everything from slouchy suiting to strapless jumpsuits so are worth looking into as an interesting detail.

Invest in accessories

Gold strappy sandals, £49.99, Zara; Silver strappy sandals £49, Office; Velvet clutch, £59, Hobbs; Fringed earrings, £49, Uterque; Hair combs, £10, Accessorize; Gold barrette, £75, Shrimps

It's easy to get lost in dress shopping and putting all your efforts into finding the perfect one, but accessories shouldn't be overlooked as they have the potential to elevate a simple dress and, crucially, are the elements of the outfit you'll be likely wear again and again.

Pick a comfortable pair of heels: it's no good having to sit on the sidelines all evening as your feet hurt too much to dance. A platform is ideal if you're not the most confident, but a single soled shoe always looks more expensive. Opt for a metallic pair and they'll work with a host of other evening looks for years to come.