San Francisco, February 18, 2019 - Bay Area students are gearing up for prom season, which means the search for the perfect dress has begun in earnest. With more than 400 new prom gown designs on display, Flares Bridal + Formal is the prom dress shop that offers something for every style sensibility and budget.

As one of the highlights of the high school social calendar, prom (and its requisite wardrobe) isn't something to be taken lightly. Flares Bridal + Formal takes the same approach to prom as to other formal occasions, with a focus on providing both personal service and easy access to a wide range of designers and gowns.

This year's collection includes hundreds of gowns from a variety of different designers, including Sherri Hill, whose designs have been worn be Miss USA, Miss America, and Miss Universe winners, Jovani Fashions, a New York-based fashion house, and the glittering gowns designed by La Femme, a line known for its intricate embellishments. Though Flares Bridal + Formal is conveniently located in Walnut Creek, customers can also browse the entire prom dress collection on the shop's website.

As with all areas of fashion, prom dresses are subject to shifting trends. This year, one of the favorite looks is for non-traditional shapes, such as two piece, midriff-baring gowns, formal jumpsuits (a look that's also gaining popularity with brides), and rompers. The low cut sweetheart necklines of the past have been pushed aside by higher necklines that serve as a counterpoint to a sweeping backless design or keyhole cutouts. Tulle is a favorite material for gowns with full skirts, while slinky, sequin-spangled charmeuse gives a mermaid-like quality to tighter cuts. Rhinestone and metallic embellishment are particularly trendy this season.

Of course, more classic gown styles are also available from many designers, including those at Faviana. With red-carpet-ready looks that are both dramatic and understated, Faviana dresses are perfect for those looking for a gown that can be worn to other formal occasions without giving up the playful appeal of a true prom gown. These classic styles feature tailored lines, more neutral color palettes, and subtle touches of embellishment, ideal for showing off accessories like jewelry or a wrist corsage.

With so many gowns to choose from, the best way to start narrowing them down is to visit the Flares Bridal + Formal website, which allows shoppers to filter by price range and designer. With ideas in hand, prom-goers can further refine their selections by visiting the Walnut Creek location, trying gowns on in person, and conferring with the expert consultants on hand. Choosing a prom gown is a great way for young women to express their personality and start to hone their unique look. Be sure to check school regulations, however; different San Francisco schools have different dress codes, and while all the dresses at Flares Bridal + Formal are fashion forward, they may not always fit the bill, depending on each school's regulations.