Prom Dress Too Sexy

Dear Dr. Dave and Dr. Dee,

Our daughter has her heart set on a strapless floor length gown for prom. I think that it is too sexy, and so did my husband until our daughter convinced him otherwise. She says all her friends will be wearing strapless.

Signed,

Dress stressing

Dear Dress stressing,

Parents need to set the rules and unite in agreement about them. In the beginning, both you and your husband felt that the dress was not appropriate. However, your daughter has been able to divide and conquer, that is, convince one parent to be on her side against the other. It does not matter what her friends will be wearing. If you are not comfortable with the dress, then your husband needs to support you.

There are many beautiful dresses that are not strapless that would be lovely for prom. Before shopping again, let her know what type of dresses are fine and which are not. Below are prom dress styles that should be discussed by you and your husband in order to determine what would be appropriate or not for your daughter, and then let her know.

Appropriateness of Prom Dress for Parents to Consider

1. Sleeves: long, short, cap, sleeveless

2. Straps: thick, thin, halter, one-shoulder, strapless

3. Neckline: bateau, scoop, sweetheart, low-cut plunging

4. Back: covered, scoop, low-cut, backless

5. Shapes: A-line, sheath, empire, ball gown, mermaid

6. Slits: none, knee, thigh

7. Adornment: sequins, beads, sparkle, embroidery

8. Midriff: covered, bare, side cut-outs

9. Length: mini, knee, tea, floor, asymmetrical

10. Budget: decide on a maximum price for a prom dress and accessories and stick within the budget. Many prom dresses may never be worn again.