It's a really good idea to buy a designer prom dress; they're made from the best fabrics, designed by the best designers and offer more individuality. A girl can look and feel a million dollars wearing one. But, it's important to know about style terminology and what styles best complement certain body shapes. Here's a quick guide to help you choose the best gown style.

Empire

An empire cut dress has a high waistline with the hem beginning just beneath the bust. The skirt falls away straight to the floor. The empire style is not only one of the most beautiful of styles; it's also one of the most forgiving. If you have pear shape (most women do) or a thick waist this style of gown de-emphasizes the lower half of the body, while emphasizing the bust. It also creates an illusion of height for short or petite figures. You can find many examples of this style from the Tiffany or Joli prom dress collections.

Ball Gown

This is a very traditional and still very popular style. It is characterized by a very full skirt that begins at the natural waist and falls to the floor. The waist is seamed and the corset/bodice can be decorated with many, sometimes intricate, designs. Because of the seamed waist it divides the body into top and bottom halves. It's ideal for women of average height and build and those who are tall.

Tulle

This bouffant gown has a sheer, puffed-out skirt usually made from stiffened rayon or silk. The skirt is similar in fabric construction to a ballerina tutu, although it will be either calf or floor length. Like the Empire gown, the flared skirt is perfect for disguising a bottom-heavy figure.

Sheath/Column

This is a more modern style that is for those wanting a Hollywood starlet look. However, this style can be very unforgiving as it hugs every part of the body. It looks fabulous when worn by women with tall, thin and graceful figures. It also emphasizes the shoulders and upper arms.

A-Line

Rather like the Ball gown, the A-line has a form-fitted bodice that flares out from the natural waist to a full skirt but, unlike the Ball gown, it has a seamless waist. It is often referred to as a 'princess cut' gown. It flatters just about all body types and is another style that de-emphasizes heavy hips and thighs. Again, you can find many examples of this style from the Tiffany or Joli prom dress collections.

Tea-Length

A new appearance of recent years, it was a dress more worn at cocktail parties but is now a favorite for those who prefer a designer prom dress that offers a more fun and casual look. The hem falls to the shin and is perfect for those who want to show off their calves. This style of gown really looks great on tall or thin women. The Jessica McClintock prom dress collection features many Tea-Length styles.

High-Low Gown

This is a very recent and sexy prom dress. It's characterized by being hemmed long in the back (at the ankles or to the floor) and just above the knees in the front. It shows off an hourglass figure to its best. It's also a great way to show off perfect legs rather than wearing a short dress. The Flirt prom dress features this style a lot in its collection.

Choosing the best designer prom dress for you, isn't about spending a lot of money; it's about finding the dress that best flatters your body shape and with a color that complements your own coloring.