Beaded Cocktail Dress

Prom season will be here before you know it, so it's important to start shopping for prom dresses now. You don't want to be caught without the perfect dress on your special night, so here's a preview of what's available.

Sherri Hill Dresses

Designer Sherri Hill is known for her stunning evening dresses, pageant dresses, and - of course - prom dresses. Color, texture, and embellishment are the story this season. If you want to be the belle of the ball, look for her stunning ball gown in aqua and turquoise, with an overlay of gold layered tulle. The metallic glitter fabric will catch everyone's eyes, as will the oversize satin sash that cinches your waist.

Formal dresses don't have to be long, and no one knows this better than Sherri Hill. Her sleeveless baby doll mini dress is sassy with sequins covering the sweetheart bodice, and the layers of tulle are wired at the hem for an extra flourish. Available in colors ranging from black/fuchsia to pink/green, these cocktail dresses will definitely turn heads.

Less is always more, but you need to leave something to imagination. Sherri Hill offers a stunning backless gown that features twisted, shirred chiffon crisscrossing the front and back for complete coverage but that never fails to intrigue. Paired with a flowing sequined skirt replete with a train, and available in red, black, gold, or white, you're sure to be a hit.

Jovani Dresses

Prom wouldn't be prom without Jovani. Draw attention with a gorgeous dress that features a sleeveless red lace peek-a-boo bodice accented with beads and sequins, and a flowing skirt with a thigh-high slit in the front. Or opt for a turquoise long gown with sheer crisscross straps accented with beads, a sheer midriff, and a long skirt with a short train. Or even a shimmery mini that will put you in the spotlight.

Jovani is renowned for using prints and patterns, so you can always find the perfect prom dresses to fit your mood. Whether it's black and white polka dots on white with a red sash, a colorful abstract print that will flash as you dance, or a black-on-white print designed to bring out your animal instincts, you'll always be able to match your mood with your sense of style.

Celebrity Prom Dresses

If you like what you see in the movies or on the red carpets, prom is a great excuse to dress like your favorite celebrity. You can find a dress like the one Kate Hudson wore in "How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days," Charlize Theron's knockout gown at the Golden Globes, or Beyonce's show-stopping backless number.

Where to Shop

When it comes to shopping for prom dresses, you can't go wrong if you go online and find a site that specializes in fashionable formal wear. They have the best selection of styles, sizes, and price ranges, and keep you up-to-date with prom news, trends, and tips, so your big night will be one of the best nights of your life.