1.preprom planning
gorgeous gowns

Need fashion ideas? This issue is full of 'em! You'll have no trouble finding the perfect prom dress on these pages! Use some sticky notes to flag the dresses you adore, then take the magazine with you shopping. The salespeople will be able to help you find your dream gown much faster that way. Try-on tip: Once you've found your dress, make sure it's dance-friendly. Boogie down in the fitting room in front of the mirror. Does it stay up and still look good when you're shaking your thang? Also try sitting down, bending over and walking in the dress-if it's too long, tight, loose or uncomfortable in any way, get it altered or find a better fit. Remember, you want to look good, but you also want to be able to have tons of fun!

crushing or crushed?

If you have your eye on a particular hottie and you want to take a chance on making him your prom date, check out "Get a Date...No Matter What!" on page 378 for tips on how to get his attention.

No date? No worries. Don't feel pressured into accepting an invitation from just anyone who asks. Find some pals and go as a group. Think about it: Would you rather be dancing with some lame dude you hardly know, or having a blast with your best buds on this special night?

wheels and meals

What do you want to do before the dance: A fancy meal with a group of friends? Or, a quiet dinner for two at a chic restaurant? If you're going the dining-out route, go to the Web site SoYouWanna.com under "Etiquette & Custom" for tips on how to order and eat in a fancy place. Or, grab a copy of the book Tiffany's Table Manners for Teenagers (Random House). Then make a reservation at least a couple of weeks in advance. For a group, call the restaurant even earlier so there will be enough room set aside for all of you. No cash? Check out "dinner" on the opposite page.

To ride in style, you'll also need to plan ahead. If your bank account allows it, hire a limo 'cause it's definitely the glam way to arrive at prom. Make it more affordable by sharing the expense with friends. Visit Limos.com to get price quotes and other info about limo companies in your area. If sharing a rented ride still strains your wallet, see "transportation" on the opposite page for other motoring ideas.