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Its a new generation out there and they are making their mark. This year young women in high school are changing the look of prom. More and more young women are choosing short elegant dresses for prom. Thirty percent of all prom dresses this year sport knee or above lengths.

What Teens Think

Longer doesnt mean fancier to most teen women. Formal can mean a short and elegant prom dress, as well as the more traditional long dresses. Many say they feel more comfortable in shorter dresses and that elegant but short prom dresses are easier to dance in. And while image is huge at prom, it is equally important to have fun and freedom of movement.

Most teens believe that there is a perfect dress for everyone and every body type. However, not every body type looks good in a long dress. And besides, they say, prom as a tradition is maintained whether or not you wear a long dress. And they are not so crazy that they would accept someone at prom in jeans and flip-flops.

What Parents Think

Parents are of mixed opinion on the issue of short elegant prom dresses. Some see the change as positive. Its a different world, they say, why shouldnt teens change it up a bit. Parental defenders of the short but elegant prom dress say that is just plain practical. And besides, they add, whats important is that the prom dresses be simple and elegant, not necessarily whether they are long or short.

On the other hand, detractors, say that long dresses are the tradition as opposed to short elegant prom dresses. It is exactly the length of the dress and the formality that separates this dance for all the others in high school. Also, they say, long dresses reinforce the concept what is acceptable formal wear and what is not. It is not always up to the attendee. Marking occasions with special attire is part of the ritual.

Long or short both parents and young women agree that prom dress need to be simple and elegant to honor the occasion and mark the rite of passage the event represents. While short but elegant prom dresses are becoming increasingly popular, parents and teens need to take other things into consideration as well. For instance, does that prom have a theme this year? What are the colors? If the prom has a Victorian theme for instance, a short dress would not be appropriate. Whatever you choose, do it carefully, because pictures last forever.