Avoiding Prom Mistakes

(RELEASE) Don't make a fashion mistake you will regret forever, warns Nicole Spreck of Northbrook Court, northbrookcourt.com. She has some guidelines for a look that's classic yet modern. With the right dress and accessories, Nicole says you'll have a prom experience – and photos -- that you'll look back on with pride!

All fashions available at Northbrook Court in suburban Northbrook shopnorthbrookcourt.com

Backless Beauty

We've seen this spring trend emerge on various red carpets. Baring your back can be sexy and elegant, and adding fine details like beaded trim gives it a touch of glam without going overboard.

Tip: Keep jewelry and hair natural and understated

Model Jessy Shellard:

Xscape Ombre Gown; $198 from Lord & Taylor

Calvin Klein Silver Heels; $139 from Lord & Taylor

Silver Drop Necklace; $90 from Lord & Taylor

Prints Charming

Flamenco flair is the best way to show your personality! Bright colors and prints are plain old fun! It adds a flirtatious and youthful element to your look. Tip: Prints and pattern look best of slim figures, while monochromatic dresses tend to be more slimming.

Model Madeline Perchigan

Roberta Print Bubble Dress; $109 from Macy's

Steve Madden Ballet Flats; $ 59 from Macy's

RJG Black Onyx Necklace; $43 from Macy's

Short Story

If you prefer a cocktail dress to evening wear, go with the shorter dress, which can be glammed up with elegant jewelry

Model Elizabeth Johnston

Posie Dress; $378 from Betsey Johnson

Alice Shoes; $150 from Betsey Johnson

Bow Tie Earrings; $35 from Betsey Johnson

Metallic Maven

Shimmer like the stars! If color is not your thing, go for silver, gold or copper tones to be a sure hit! These neutrals compliment any skin tone.

Tip: Pick one statement piece of jewelry like a stunning bracelet or drop earrings, and be sure to keep your make-up and hair natural to offset all the shine.

Model Stephanie Stone

Xscape Strapless Metallic Dress; $149 from Lord & Taylor

RJ Graziano Lucite Necklace; $85 from Lord & Taylor

BCBG Platform Heels; $89 from Lord & Taylor

Model Pascale Metellus

Oleg Cassini Metallic Dress; $178 from Lord & Taylor

Kenneth Cole Reaction Metallic Heels; $69 from Lord & Taylor

Hoop Earrings; $60 from Lord & Taylor

Hollywood Gal

After the Hollywood Awards season, you are ready to look and feel like your favorite celebrity. Get your inspiration directly from the Red Carpet with a one shoulder look, a high split dress, or a mermaid shape. Tip: Stick to one trend, don't try and mix too many different looks.

Model Lina DiCaro

Xscape - Turquoise Gown; $199 from Macy's

Nina - Silver Strappy Shoes; $79 from Macy's

Monet - Crystal Cuffs; $45 and $25 from Macy's

Model Michaelina Ruffalo

JS Collections Cobalt Blue Gown; $218 from Lord & Taylor

Calvin Klein Black and Crystal Heels; $139 from Lord & Taylor

L&T Crystal Ring; $80 from Lord & Taylor

L&T Crystal Drop Earrings; $60 from Lord & Taylor

Glass Slipper Project

Various retailers from Northbrook Court are donating Prom Fashions through May 1 to the Glass Slipper Project glassslipperproject.org The Glass Slipper project is a volunteer based organization dedicated to helping thousands of Chicago high school girls look like the belle of the ball each year. Dresses, shoes, accessories and new make-up are donated to the Glass Slipper "boutiques" where volunteers act as personal shoppers for the girls, putting together a complete look for her special night. There is no charge for the prom outfits given to disadvantaged teens.

Boutique shopping will take place on April 17, April 24, and May 1 at Abbott School, 3630 South Wells Street, Chicago. The Glass Slipper Project is accepting donations for the 2010 Prom season through May 1. There are many donation locations and volunteers are always needed. Visit glassslipperproject.org for more information.