What’s Trending: Prom 2020 Edition
Prom is coming! It's one of the biggest events of the year and you won't want to leave anything to chance.
No worries, we have you covered!. We chatted with the style and beauty experts at JCPenney to get the lowdown on Prom 2020, from what's trending to what's not.
The Dress
When it comes to picking the dress, you'll want to begin with the broad strokes. Do you want something that'll shine and sparkle under the strobe lights, or a vibrant pop of color that'll make it impossible to look away from you? We asked JCPenney Senior Styling Director Sage McEquin to share the biggest trending looks for this year.
Shimmery Metallic
According to Sage, iridescent finishes and fabrics with an eye-catching shimmer will be all the rage this prom season. Wear a dress that'll shimmer and sparkle as much as you do, like this City Triangle Spaghetti Strap A-Line Dress.
(via JCPenney)
Candy Colors
This year's prom will be all about colors that pop! Sage anticipates we'll be seeing a lot of rich jewel tones, magenta and bright blues cascading across the dance floor. We particularly love this B. Smart Spaghetti Strap Party Dress.
(via JCPenney)
Sparkly Beading and Sequins
If you're feeling the bold colors, but also want to shine maybe glitter is your vibe. Sage sees beads and sequins as one of the top trends this season. Try this Emerald Sundae Sleeveless Sheath Dress.
(via JCPenney)
Luxe Satin
Not into sparkly textures? You're in luck, because regal satin finishes will also be big this prom season, Sage says. Check out this sleek number, Jackie Jon Spaghetti Strap A-Line Dress.
(via JCPenney)
Strappy Details
Strappy details add a special something to your already stunning look. And, showing a little extra skin gives a sassy touch while remaining refined. We love this DJ Jaz Sleeveless A-Line Dress.
(via JCPenney)
Embellished With Smooth Lines
If you love unusual textures, experiment with dresses featuring embellishments. You'll look stunning in a dress like this DJ Jaz-Juniors Sleeveless Embellished Sheath Dress.
(via JCPenney)
The Makeup
No prom outfit is complete without a gorgeous makeup look, and as your one-stop-shop for everything Prom, JCPenney has you covered with the Sephora Inside JCPenney.
"Prom is such a fun time of the year, and a great moment to try different makeup looks that work for you," says Myiesha Sewell, Sephora Beauty Director. " You can focus on a few key elements I've outlined below, or experiment with layering them all together."
The Romantic Smokey Eye
"Smokey eyes are always a good look," Myiesha says. "This year, we're seeing a shift towards rosy tones, rather than the darker colors typically associated with a smokey eye, as these are more approachable. Swapping out black liner for brown, or even aubergine (aka deep purple), can also create a soft yet impactful look. As long as there's softly smudged liner at the lash line, it's considered a smokey eye—the level of drama is totally up to you."
Get the look:
- Steal: Sephora Collection Flash Sequin Miniature Palette in Peach Gold, $10
- Splurge: Huda Beauty Nude Obsessions Eyeshadow Palette in Nude Medium, $29
(via Shutterstock)
False Lashes
Whether you want a minimal boost to your natural lashes or full-on glam, false lashes can help you achieve exactly the change you want for a special occasion like prom.
"False lashes are a surefire way to upgrade any look, and the right pair can even be the look itself," Myiesha explains. "Flared lashes give the eye an instant lift, and rounded lashes can give a sweet baby doll effect."
Get the look:
- Steal: Sephora Collection False Eye Lashes, Starts at $6
- Splurge: Velour Lashes Fluff'n Glam Collection, $29
(via Shutterstock)
Glossy Lips
A glossy lip creates a fresh look that's much easier to maintain than a bold lipstick, alone—and much more kissable, too. "Glossy lips are always a favorite and the easiest to touch up," Myiesha says. "You can top your favorite lipstick with a gloss, or try wearing something super sparkly."
Get the look:
- Steal: Sephora Collection Colorful Gloss Balm, $9
- Splurge: Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer, $19
(via Shutterstock)
The Hair
A memorable hairstyle is just as critical to your overall prom aesthetic as your dress and your makeup, so make it count. Brendnetta Ashley, National Artistic Educator at Salon by Instyle inside JCPenney, gave us some insights into the hairstyles she thinks will be big this prom.
Curls and Accent Braids
"Curls and braids are the perfect combination. Curls are soft and romantic, while the braids add a touch of fun," Brendnetta says. For a look that will survive even the rowdiest dance floor, try Redken Rough Paste 12 to create a controlling hold for your braids.
(via JCPenney)
Curls and Waves
If an updo doesn't suit your prom style this year, don't sweat it. Keep things classy yet simple by using some Matrix Vavoom Freezing Hairspray to maintain an elegant wave style. "It gives great volume and the perfect hold to have your waves last the entire night," Brendnetta explains.
(via JCPenney)
Ponytails
If you're going for an uncomplicated look, Brendnetta recommends a simply chic ponytail. She suggests Paul Mitchell Super Clean Extra Hair Spray for great control and hold, and using Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum to add an extra bit of polish and sparkling shine.
(via JCPenney)
Side-Swept Curls or Braid
A combination of chunky, eye-catching braids and fabulous side-swept curls are great for achieving a fairytale look. "Go big or go home!"Brendnetta says. "These styles are sure to grab everyone's attention." To keep your braids and curls looking fresh and voluminous even hours into prom, try a combination of JCPenney Salon's Big Sexy Hair's Spray & Play Harder and Powder Play.
(via JCPenney)
Embellishments
And even if you want to sport a simple hairstyle this year, Brendnetta says you can still make a bold statement by accessorizing your prom hairstyle with stylish embellishments. She recommends Big Sexy Hair's Spray and Stay Hairspray for creating the firm control you need to hold the embellishment in place throughout the dance.