Play dress up: Prom is months away, but now is the time to start shopping

When it comes to prom dresses this year, anything goes.

Ball gowns, flowing dresses, floral print, animal print, Grecian-style gowns, "everything sells," according to Sandy Schilling, owner of Weddings & Parties Complete in Jackson.

She said the styles are similar to 2008, but the Grecian gowns, with a long, pleated skirt and bunched fabric or a bejeweled top, are new and the prints have gotten "just a little bit more out there."

With the dozens of different styles and colors, the best advice is to just dive in and start trying them on.

"Don't set your mind on a particular style or color," Schilling said.

How to wear your hair? Schilling said the dress shouldn't factor into choosing between an updo or hanging loose. Look at magazines for inspiration. Patterned lime satin dress with ruched bodice. By Bedazzled, available at the Andrew Jackson.

One tip Gina Jansen at the Andrew Jackson in Jacsion gave: Start early.

Despite the still-popular strapless numbers, Jansen said thick, chunky straps with tons of sparkle or sequins are reappearing on the racks.

The Grecian dresses are great for any girl with curves or a little more weight, while a ball gown will give a pear-shaped girl an "hourglass" figure. High shine and sparkle is also hot, she said. Look for fabrics like metallic chiffon or metallic jersey and liquid lame.

Most dress shops keep a list of who from which school bought what dress. To prevent having a twin on prom night, make sure your name gets down and the salesperson knows which dance you're taking your dress to.