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Prom Shoes
A Prom Shoe Checklist

By Desiree Stimpert, About.com

Buying your prom shoes can be one of the most fun shopping experiences you'll have. Think of it this way - your prom shoes can be as fancy and formal as many bride's shoes will be, but you don't have that traditional "white" thing hanging over your head.

This "Prom Shoes Checklist" will help you get ready for the big night, and don't forget to check the additional information on prom shoes at the end of the article.

Start Looking for Your Prom Shoes Now

Even if you don't buy them right away, it's never too soon to start getting an idea of the kind of dress shoes you like and don't like. Scan magazines for looks you like, and pay attention to which styles of shoes work with which hemlines, etc. Don't have time for all that extra shopping? Check out this "Top Prom Shoes" article, and visit some of the online shoe stores listed.

Open-Toed Prom Shoes?

Don't forget the pedicure! Check to be sure that your polish is a good match for your prom shoes and dress. If you're doing it yourself, be sure to do it early in the day, so you don't have to rush. Going to a salon? Book early!

When to Try on Prom Shoes

When shopping for your prom shoes (or any shoes for that matter), be sure to try them on later in the day. Our feet swell as the day progresses, so you'll want to be sure the fit is right for the big night.

Hose or Bare Legs

The choice is totally yours, but if you plan on wearing hose with your prom dress, make sure you wear them when trying on prom shoes - or take a knee-high pair with you, so you can slip them on at the stores.

Look for Stylish AND Comfortable Prom Shoes

Of course, you'll want your prom shoes to be smashing, but comfort still rules. Look for shoes that you'll be able to dance in, and avoid shoes that will pinch your feet, or the prom will be ruined.

Prom Shoe Practice

Practice wearing your prom shoes around the house for a couple hours a day, starting a couple of weeks before the prom. This is especially important if you're not accustomed to wearing higher heeled shoes.

Extra Shoes for After the Prom

If you'll be attending an afterprom, consider taking a change of shoes, so your feet aren't killing you come the wee hours of the morning.

And finally, a couple of quick tips to help you choose the perfect prom shoes:
  • As a general rule, opt for shoes that are the same tone, or darker than your dress.

  • While black will work fabulously with many darker colors, it's a definite "don't" for pastels. If you don't want to play the "dyed to match" game, try a metallic gold, silver or pewter for lighter colored gowns.

  • If your dress is a formal, glamourous-type gown, try a simpler pair of prom shoes. A lower heeled sling-back or mule without a lot of embellishment would be a great choice.

  • For a more casual dress, or a strappy, shorter length prom dress, try strappy sandals.

Don't forget to check out the top Prom Shoes of the season.
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