By Lauren La Rose, The Canadian Press – May 10, 2011

TORONTO — Prom continues to reign as a hotly anticipated highlight on the student calendar, but the year-end rite of passage can often be a costly undertaking for teens and their parents.

Expenses can climb quickly, from the core costs for event tickets to add-ons like grooming, corsages, boutonnieres and limo rentals.

Then, of course, there's The Outfit, and the inevitable snapshots uploaded to social media pages and immortalized in yearbooks of teens flaunting their formal wear.

But students seeking to stand out in red carpet-worthy attire don't necessarily need to tap out their savings to look the part. Teens can assemble ensembles that are fashionable and affordable — and won't be mothballed when the night is over.

"If you're looking for a dress and working on a budget it's important to get a dress that you should be able to have some longevity with, something that's simple — a simple shape in style and design," said Winners spokeswoman Colleen Uncao.

An inexpensive way to make your dress look more expensive is to have it tailored, she said.

"The fit is so important to making the dress (look) like it's made for you."

It's key to dress for your body, colouring and personality style, said wardrobe stylist and image consultant Joan Cordoba, owner of Styled Closets.

"When in doubt, go A-line. That's probably the most flattering silhouette for pretty much any body type," she said.

Florals, stripes or polka dots may make a bold statement, but if you're looking for a dress for the long haul, Uncao said it's much easier to work with one colour.

"A pattern can be difficult to accessorize and also difficult for longevity because you would recognize a pattern more often than if it were a solid colour dress."

From there, update or change the look with simple, inexpensive accessories.

"If you have a solid colour dress you can change it completely ... add a gold or metallic belt or sash," Uncao said. "If it's a simple dress and you want to make it look fancier, a jewelled sash or belt would be great."

Costume jewelry like statement earrings, necklaces or a big ring can kick your outfit up a notch, she said. Hair can also be a style canvas, accessorized with jewelled combs, barrettes or flowers. Among the hot handbags for spring is the clutch purse. Uncao suggests opting for a smaller version studded with rhinestones or an oversized envelope clutch.

At night, a strapless A-line dress could be worn with stacked, strappy heels for prom. By day, the garment could be paired with a cardigan or jean jacket worn with a flat or sneaker, Uncao said.

At the recent Met Costume Gala in New York, nearly every celebrity was wearing nude or neutral tones which Uncao said is emerging strongly as a colour trend.

"There's all different shades of nudes and neutrals, whether it's really pale to more creamy tones to more pinky tones. It works on a lot of skin tones and you can make it really dramatic by playing up your makeup as well," she said, suggesting a smoky eye for more drama.

Boys can also make a style statement with their prom look.

Uncao said gone are the days guys feel pigeonholed into wearing a tuxedo. Many want to show their individuality — and they don't have to wear a matching suit.

For example, she suggests slacks can be teamed with a blazer with piping detailing or a pattern. A bowtie or colourful necktie is another way to add personality. Suspenders and vests can be alternatives to a suit jacket.

For boys seeking an accessory, a topper may do the trick. Uncao said a woven fedora worn with a suit is a fun add-on.

And boys are no longer restricted to oxfords or brogues for more formal footwear. Robert Downey Jr. and Justin Bieber are among the notable names who have appeared at red-carpet events in their runners.

For those opting for the rubber-soled route, Uncao said they should go for a new clean pair of sneakers in satin or leather and choose a bright hue like red or purple for a pop of colour.

"You're not going to be wearing your gym shoes," said Uncao. "That would be a faux pas."

For those with limited funds, seeking an inexpensive dress or repurposing a garment from their own wardrobe may be the lone option. But teens with more wiggle room in their budget could invest in a classic outfit with a potentially longer shelf life.

Inna Bershtadt is one of four Toronto-area teens who have been sharing their suggestions with others seeking prom dresses as prom bloggers for Yorkdale Shopping Centre.

The 17-year-old, dubbed "The It-Girl," has posted entries about beauty tips and dressing for your body type while also documenting her search for her dress.

Bershtadt found a short sequined dress for around $400 from Holt Renfrew that fits her desired bill as a party dress more than a prom outfit.

"I'm probably going to get a flashy pair of heels for prom," she said. "But if I just wear more casual black heels and loose my hair down straight not in curls which I'm probably going to do for prom, I could definitely wear it out ... maybe to a club when I'm older or an evening out. "

Bershtadt said while price was a factor, the most important thing was finding a dress that was visually appealing that she could invest in for wear afterwards.

"That's basically my whole concept when it comes to shopping and to fashion is purchasing things that will last longer and will stay in fashion."

Cordoba is proof-positive it's possible to get long-term use from what many regard as a one-time outfit.

She graduated in 1987, but her $720 prom dress continues to reap dividends.

Cordoba, 42, has worn the form-fitting strapless ivory and lace dress on several occasions, including to weddings, and made adjustments along the way.

The large rosettes that once adorned the bottom part of the skirt are now gone. She's worn it with a shrug and even a jean jacket. More than 20 years on, she has no immediate plans to relinquish it.

"I'm working with my tailor ... I'm trying to figure out what else I want to do with it. I might add something in the shoulder," Cordoba said.

"I'm considering what to do with it for this summer because I'm thinking of wearing it again."

Make a statement this season with gifts that look like you spent a bundle!

Why break the bank on an expensive gift when you can buy something that just looks like you did? We asked our fashion and home décor experts for gift ideas that seem super expensive but will keep you on budget. Find out how to shop smart for the special people in your life!

Buying one big gift is kind of like putting all your eggs in one basket. Unless you know beyond a shadow of a doubt it's exactly what they want, you're taking a risk. Instead, consider buying gifts in coordinating pairs or groups. While each individual item may not be exciting on its own, when packaged together with complementary accessories, you've got a spectacular presentation! (And one that looks way more expensive than it really is.)

If clothing is a must-have for someone on your list, Joan Cordoba-Petraglia, image consultant and owner of Styled Closets, suggests assembling an outfit. "Take an inexpensive yet funky blazer or top and pair it with an accessory like a versatile necklace that might double as a hair band." Other options include a mixing bowl filled with kitchen gadgets and great quality tea towels for the chef in your life, a cashmere scarf with coordinating gloves for the woman who appreciates luxury or a beautiful urn bursting with spring supplies for the gardener.

Give them something fabulous to talk about at the water cooler this year with a wow-worthy party outfit!

Love it or dread it, it's almost holiday party season. What better opportunity to let your colleagues know you're anything but all business? Step away from the tired old LBD (or at least bling it up!) and make this year's party your own personal runway.

Image consultant and Styled Closets' owner Joan Cordoba-Petraglia says it is possible to make a statement with a great outfit while balancing the art of not saying too much. "We're still mingling with people we work with and we don't want to be too suggestive, but it is definitely possible to put together a stunning outfit without being too revealing." Check out her favourite looks this holiday season!

When the setting is formal and the perfect accessory is sophistication, step into the spotlight with a little shimmer. "The glam look is all about being sparkly in an elegant way. One nice look is a round- or boat-neck sequined short dress. It makes a statement without being too sexy," says Cordoba-Petraglia, who suggests finishing off the look with a pair of simple stud earrings, shimmery panty hose and satin or peep toe heels.

If sequins aren't your style in clothing, glitz it up with dazzling accessories that reflect the light. Chandelier earrings, a rhinestone bib necklace or statement bracelets can take a sophisticated outfit and give it a party flavour. You can even let your shoes do the talking with sexy, glittery details.

What better time to channel the style of Sterling-Cooper-Draper-Pryce than at the office party? Women in the '60s could teach us something about how to knock 'em dead with demure femininity. "For a more retro look, you can go with a traditional, full-style skirt or dress that falls to just above the knee or all the way to the floor. Chiffon is always nice and has a great sheen for a party," says Cordoba-Petraglia.

And if you've got a full skirt, don't be afraid to be sleeveless or strapless up top. "It's all about balance when it comes to revealing skin. If you're covered in one place, it's safe to bring it out in other places," assures Cordoba-Petraglia. "If it's a more matte fabric, you can even bring in a little fur for a wintery look and to cover your shoulders."

Short, sexy and super-sweet, you can't go wrong with a flirty cocktail dress, as long as you're remembering the balance skin with coverage. Here's your chance to bring in a splash of colour in a shiny dress that matches the festive occasion. "A fitted teal, red or deep purple dress would be fabulous at an office party. You can play it up with an updo and big earrings," says Cordoba-Petraglia.

Take a look in your wardrobe for the colours you naturally gravitate to and find a dress in one of your favourites in a style that flatters your figure. "This is kind of a vixen look because it's fitted, but you're all covered. You shouldn't be able to see excessive cleavage." A great pair of heels will help lengthen your body and set this look on fire.

There's nothing wrong with a great-fitting LBD. In fact, we all should have one. If you don't want to mess with perfection, pick up some accessories this year to take your favourite dress to a whole new level. "If you're wearing your LBD because it's understated, you've got to bring it out with some jewellery. For holiday wear, you want it to be sparkly," says Cordoba-Petraglia. "Create a collar for the dress with a jeweled bib necklace and a gorgeous updo."

Other options include long pendant necklaces, pearls, twinkling chandelier earrings and even a gorgeous ring that lights up the night. Metallic or leopard-print shoes will draw their attention from head to toe and don't forget to bring it altogether with an elegant clutch with sheen. Who says simple can't make a statement?

Spotted at LGFW attending local Canadian designer Jules Powers' show of whom Joan is a big fan and wore Jules Fall 2010 designs at her Breakfast Television appearance (October 21) and Cityline Web fashion advice (October 20).  She is seen here wearing 50's inspired dress in cheetah by L.A.M.B. paired with Marc Jacobs quilted blake bag.

Finding out what clothes and styles look best on us is a tricky proposition.We wanted an expert's advice, so we spoke with wardrobe stylist Joan Cordoba recently at Bramalea City Centre. Cordoba told us it's more than just determining our body shape -- figuring out our most flattering colours and even our style 'personality' is just as important."I think a lot of people are confused about what their personality style is. They're not sure what they are," Cordoba says. "You have to look at your lines and what your style is. For example, somebody could be totally dramatic. If you're dramatic you're the kind of person who has a severe haircut, very angled, and you want to be noticed.  You wear statement pieces. You can go [all day] in stilettos and not even mind."Other examples of personality styles include 'natural,' which means you're best suited for easygoing looks -- for instance jeans and casual tops with flats -- and 'romantic,' which includes more feminine flourishes -- florals, ruffles, and Victorian-era touches on garments. When you're dressing for your personality, you'll feel more comfortable and confident, she notes."It's like a second skin," she says. "You know you look good. You feel good, and when you feel good, self-esteem goes up, confidence goes up, and everything follows after that."Don't be afraid to add colour to your wardrobe, Cordoba remarks. You just want to make sure it's the right colour. Although there are no hard-and-fast rules, generally if your skin has a pinkish undertone you look better in cool colours -- blues, purples, and pinks with silver accents -- and if your skin has a golden undertone you should be thinking of warmer tones -- browns, oranges, and yellows, with gold jewellery. Once you know your palette, keep that in mind when you shop."All you have to do is look at the window and see what palettes they're working with and you go in or you don't go in depending on what colours they're working with," she says. "It can save you a lot of time."Lastly, know your body type and dress for it. Are you an X (hourglass)? An H (boyish frame)? An O (waist thicker than the bust)? Or perhaps an A (heavier on the hip)?If you have the hourglass shape, it's all about emphasizing your small waist -- the '50s-influenced shift dresses and body-hugging Mad Men-influenced styles that are in style right now are your best friend.

Think about achieving symmetry in your look -- if you're smaller on top, look for pieces that add volume to balance out your lower half, and vice versa.For more tips on dressing for your body type, watch our interview with Cordoba below.

 Am I too old to wear leggings? Do I have to be a size 0 to pull them off? What do I wear them with? You’ve got questions about leggings – we’ve got answers.

Check out any runway, fashion magazine or busy street corner this fall- we defy you to find one that doesn't include a woman sporting a pair of leggings. Willowy model types, moms on the run, even those on their way to the office are finding a way to fit them into their wardrobe. Comfort, an easy way to cover up and the desire to embrace a funky trend are just a few reasons women are pulling them on.

According to Joan Cordoba-Petraglia, certified image consultant and owner of Styled Closets, women of all ages and with most body types can certainly rock a great pair of leggings. "Leggings are for everybody - I use them when I want to cover up or when I want to be warm or to update an outdated look. The trick is in selecting the right style for you and pairing them with the right tops and accessories." Curious? Read on.

It can be tough to weed through the dizzying array of leggings styles and colours in stores this fall. What works best for you? Cordoba-Petraglia says that unless you're into taking fashion risks, stick with those that are opaque and darker in colour. "It's harder to pull off lighter colours because white expands and makes things look larger. Darker is more slimming and lengthening."

She also advises women not to expose too much (think camel toe, ouch!) and, unless you're tall, avoid wearing leggings above the calf: it'll cut you off instead of lengthening your look. "Don't: wear them with pants or short, tight tops or with a loafer-style shoe," says Cordoba-Petraglia. "Do: always cover your butt, especially with tight leggings, wear them long to look taller, layer them under long tops, tunics and dresses and definitely try them on before you buy. Just like jeans, they all fit differently. Make sure you get the ones most flattering to your shape."

  

Are you ever too old to wear leggings? Though younger women tend to get away with more when it comes to fashion, that doesn't mean leggings are off limits for the more mature among us. "For people in their 50s, 60s and beyond, the only differences I would think about are thicker fabrics. So instead of tight-type leggings, look for ones that are in the style of more structured pants," says Cordoba-Petraglia.

If you're not an even size 2, leggings can definitely still be part of your wardrobe. One way to create a slimming look is to match your leggings with a similar colour on top for a monochromatic, lengthening look. "A lot of runways are using a brown jacket on a brown top on brown leggings and then brown boots. They're creating a line, which lengthens and slims. If you mix it up with too many colours, you're kind of sectioning off yourself and that's not always flattering.

 

When it comes to leggings and footwear, almost anything goes. "Heels are fine as long as they're not super dramatic, ballet flats and sandals are great and high, low or slouchy boots work. The only thing that I think really is not fine is that loafer look," says Cordoba-Petraglia. "There's nothing wrong with wearing fabulous shoes with leggings, but you want them to be a touch more casual."

As cooler weather blows in this fall and open-toed shoes get tucked away, consider investing in a pair of boots that snake up your leg. Your cozy socks are hidden away and you've got a long and lanky look. And that's pretty much the only time you're going to get away with a sock and a legging, says our expert. "We see a sock and a peep-toe shoe sometimes with leggings, but I don't see a lot of people pulling that off. You have to be quite tall to make that work."

It goes without saying that most women want to wear leggings with a longer, butt-covering sweater, tunic, oversize shirt or dress. Leggings present a great opportunity to extend the life of your summer dresses, skirts and tunics. And when you pull out your woollier knits, you've got something knew to slip on underneath.

"If you've got a sexy dress that you want to subdue a little, try leggings that run lower than mid-calf and a pair of simple heels. A whole new outfit with a different twist," says Cordoba-Petraglia. The possibilities seem endless!

Stretch your wardrobe Going through a mid-season fashion slump? Or is your budget holding you back from a good shop? Take a trip into your closet to see how you can stretch those simple staple pieces every woman should own.

We've all been there. Standing in front of the closet wearing nothing but a towel and a frown, wondering what you're going to put on today. When it seems like we've worn all our clothes to death it's time to get creative.

We asked certified image consultant and owner of Toronto-based Styled Closets, Joan Cordoba-Petraglia to help us stretch our wardrobe by making our staple pieces more versatile. Here are four key pieces we all should own and how you can make them work in a variety of ways.

"Every woman should own one pair of high-end denim that complements her body shape," says Cordoba-Petraglia. "Dark denim is most versatile for day to night." With the right pair of jeans, you can go almost anywhere - the trick is what you wear with them.

For a stylish daytime look, accessorize with gold or leather jewelry and a hip pair of sunglasses. Cute sandals or casual sling-backs will keep you from looking schlumpy and a light scarf, graphic tee, crisp white blouse or daytime blazer are all options you can play with to dress up or down. For evening, Cordoba-Petraglia advises you slip on shiny patent heels, add a statement evening bag, some gold "blingy" jewelry and top it off with a suit jacket in a rich fabric like wool or one with shimmer. Who says jeans are boring?

 

When it comes to fashion, footwear is anything but just functional. With the right pair of shoes, you can transform a basic outfit into a sophisticated ensemble that looks perfectly planned out.

Every woman should invest in a pair (or several!) of stylish and distinctive two-inch heels. "These shoes should be of average thickness for dressing up or down... and you're ready to walk. I find the best ones are primarily black with some neutral or nude colour detail that will match everything."

 

When it comes to versatility, a simple white t-shirt can't be beat. Cordoba-Petraglia says to look for one that is well constructed, made of rich fabric and has unique details such an interesting cut, a bit of hardware or funky stitching. Dress it up with bling jewelry, a small statement bag, a blazer and some stilettos or take it out in the daytime with a scarf, cute sneakers or casual heels. A light blazer adds extra style for the office.

A word of caution: not all whites are created equal. "There are stark whites, soft whites and off-whites," says Cordoba-Petraglia. "There is a white that's best for you depending on your colouring." Make sure you try them all before buying!

Whether you're a business maven or a stay-at-home mom, every woman can use an LBD. The key is not to cheap out in this solid investment piece. "A good, overall versatile LBD is one that is made of good fabric and the right cut to fit your unique shape," says Cordoba-Petgraglia. "The fabric doesn't have to be super rich, but certainly of good quality."

When you're stumped, this is the wardrobe item that might surprise you - and everyone - with its ability to go just about anywhere. Remember, it's not the dress that has to be memorable; it's what you put with it. Dress it down with a cardigan or blazer and flats. Or take it out on the town with a chunky necklace, a chic updo, a unique belt, evening shoes and more dramatic makeup.

(AP Photo)

Be prepared to see plenty of plaid this fall as the normally modest patterned cloth appears to be gunning for the spotlight. "It's all about the plaid shirt," says Toronto stylist Joan Cordoba-Petraglia. "The plaid that's coming back in is the lumber jack look from the 80s." Finally, all of Mary-Kate Olsen's hard work has paid off! Although, the grunge-loving fashion designer can't take all the credit for the latest trend. For the   most part, we have a deflated economy to thank (or

blame) for the movement. Plaid shirts represent a strong work ethic and during periods of high unemployment, we are desperate to appear ready and willing to work at a moment's notice! (Although, the last I checked the criteria for EI didn't extend to wardrobe choices.) There are several variations this fall on the standard plaid shirt including plenty of ruffles, says Cordoba-Petraglia. She says women can also have fun with the look by pairing up the shirt with a pencil skirt, some blingy jewelry, a status bag and trendy sunglasses. "It totally dresses it up," she says.

The Sheridan Sun asked GTA image consultant Joan Petraglia for some rules grads should follow when interviewing for their first job.

Call the company you have the interview with and find out what their dress code is. Dress one notch above that for the interview.

When shopping, choose clothes based on your body type and shape, your personality, as well as your colouring. Know what's right for your body to make your image look just right. It’s a good idea to have a wardrobe budget allotted for the new job or interview.

Invest in a good suit and build on it. If the cost involved in is an issue, places like Holt Renfrew Last Call in Vaughan Mills mall discounts high-end suits. If that's still too much, a suit from H&M will work.

Only buy items that are interchangeable with your existing wardrobe.  If it doesn't go with anything you have, skip it. Take advantage of good sales.

It takes seven seconds to assess a person and form an opinion about them, so it pays to arrive at the interview as well groomed as possible.

Your hairstyle should be based on your face shape and personality. Short or long is up to you, as long as it’s clean and neat.

Too much perfume/cologne is poor etiquette. People shouldn't be able to smell your presence.

Dressing provocatively will give you an image you may want to stay away from.

Being taken seriously can be a challenge for people in their 20s because they have more to prove. If you choose to dress dress as if you're going clubbing, don't complain when people don’t react well to you.

What matters is authenticity. Yes, it's that same old thing your mother told you that couldn't be truer; be yourself.

What’s in for men?

Petraglia says men should stick to classics and throw in something current.  Rules of wardrobe formality are important.  Just like women, dress for your body type and shape and use the colours that bring you out.

If you have any concerns about the image you want to create, Mrs. Petraglia offers her services to grads at a reduced rate in May and June. Contact her at styledclosets@rogers.com.

Do...

    * Be current not outdated. An outdated wardrobe will send the message that you and your skills are outdated.

    * Wear clothing that is in good condition.  Worn out clothing will send the message that you and your skills are worn out.

    * Dress appropriately, usually one level above that which is required for the position.

    * Research the organization so you can demonstrate your interest and awareness.

    * Be an image maker, not an image breaker.

    * Be well groomed.

    * Have fresh breath.

Don't...

    * Wear clothes that are ill-fitting, or clothing that is cheap or tacky.

    * Wear outdated clothing or accessories (don't be trapped in a particular decade).

    * Have visible panty lines.

    * Have your undershirt visible through shirt or neckline.

    * Have body odour or too much fragrance.

    * Have obvious hair in your nose or ears.

    * Have visible bra straps and undergarments.

    * Wear short socks with pants (leg is bared when crossed).

    * Show any inappropriate bare skin.

Ever wondered why certain shoes make your feet look monstrous while others leave you feeling positively princess-like? Toronto stylist Joan Petraglia says shopping for accessories according to your bone structure can drastically improve your look.

She says there are three types of bone structures for women; fine, medium and strong. Simply measure around the top of your wrist to find out which category you fall under. Those with a fine bone structures will measure less than 5.5 inches or 14 cm around the wrist. Medium bone structures fall between 5.5-6.5 inches or 14-16cm while strong bone structures are greater than 6.5 inches or 16.5 cm.

Here are some tips for shopping for shoes and jewelry according to your bone structure.  

You should to aim for the finest of details in your accessories; the thinnest, flattest, most delicate-looking pieces. Chunky shoes will overwhelm your feet but you can pull off strappy sandals as long as you go with the thinnest of straps. You will drown in most statement-making necklaces so stick to more dainty bracelets or hanging necklaces with fine chains and beading.

Try sticking to more classic, medium-weight styles and be sure to avoid anything too thick or too thin. You’ll want to avoid those fine little strappy sandals as well as the heavier, chunkier shoes. Both are too contrasting so you should focus on shoes with more medium-sized straps. Classic-sized pearls and other medium-weight jewelry works best for your structure.

You should stick with the details that are the thickest, heaviest and chunkiest. Avoid the tiny strappy shoes and opt instead for straps that are thicker with heels and buckles that are chunkier. People with strong bone structures who try to pull off fine straps end up busting out of them, which doesn’t do your feet any favours. You can pull off large, statement-making necklaces and thick bangle bracelets but be sure to steer clear of lighter pieces like tennis bracelets or delicate pendants.

RULE OF THUMB When wearing brights, the focus should always be on the individual~the colour or item should never take over, says Petraglia.

 Jo-Anne