Homecoming 2009 Dress Trends

It may seem far away, but before you know it the so-called hottie from your daughter's chem class will be at your front door ready to whisk her off to the homecoming dance. He'll have super sweaty palms and a wrist corsage in a plastic container to match the color of her dress. And she will make him wait as she gets her hair and makeup just right -- leaving him across the room from your husband who will shoot him several if-you-touch-my-daughter-I'll... looks.

And when the moment is as uncomfortable as possible and the date is ready to run out the door to escape your husband's Mona Lisa stare your daughter will descend the staircase in the most perfect dress. Everyone in the room will be left breathless at how she has become such an amazing young woman.

Now, there isn't much I can do about the sweaty palm teen or the dagger-eyed dad, but I can certainly steer you in the right direction with the dress.

Short: Homecoming 2009 is all about the short dress. You can certainly still go with a long dress, but it would have to be kept very simple. Just because short dresses are hot, doesn't mean they have to be more casual. You can still be very elegant and glamorous. It's all about finding the perfect dress that makes you feel amazing like this short crinkle ruffle cocktail dress.

Silver: Always pick the color that works best with your features: skin tone, hair and eyes. Just as I suspected from the red carpets, silver is this seasons "it" color that I happen to love. You can go shiny like this satin pleated tube dress or a matte finish and silver works with just about every skin, hair and eye combination.

One Strap: This trend ruled the runway at the 2009 Academy Awards and I can see why. It is regal and sophisticated while being a little sexy. There are so many different varieties of this look and it really shows off toned arms well. Asymmetrical necklines are a great option if you want to go with the one shoulder dress trend but are planing on wearing a strapless dress.

Puffy Bottoms: I like to refer to this style as the miracle dress or the wonder gown -- because it works with every body type. Not only that, but puffy bottom dresses gives a shorter dress more of a formal feel. This style is fun and flirty and comes in different volumes. At least try it on and see how it makes you feel.

Flirty and Sweet: Sugar and spice and everything nice -- this flirty and sweet style is adorable. When I saw this blue and white satin and organza dress that looks like a Tiffany's box I couldn't help but smile and this flower satin bow pleated formal dress is so romantic. These flowing, frilly, and flirty frocks are the perfect trend for homecoming night.

Beaded: Any type of ornate dress will make you stand out in a crowd at homecoming. These dresses look very expensive and you can usually find them at a pretty reasonable price. Beaded dresses are so beautiful and catch the light while dancing. Make sure whatever dress you pick that it matches your personality.

Tiers and Pleates: These 3-D delights make the most interesting and fun homecoming dresses. I couldn't resist -- I bought a few in more formal styles for summer dresses. Whether you choose tiers or pleates, adding extra dimension to your dress will intrigue others checking you out from across the dance floor.

Cinched waists: Draw attention to the smallest part of your waist with a cinched-waist dress like this satin strapless sheath dress in royal blue. The simple and chic design with bone bodice and vertical bow at the hip is gorgeous.