Dressed without Stress: Newgistics Offers Seven Time-Saving Tips for Prom Preparedness

Business Wire, April 10, 2006

AUSTIN, Texas -- Newgistics Teams up with Retail Expert Hillary Mendelsohn to Offer Expert Advice on How to Make This Year's Prom Prep Hassle-Free

Newgistics, Inc., the leader in returns management solutions for direct retailers, today announced a list of seven useful tips for eliminating unnecessary stress and costs associated with prom preparations. The following simple tips will help this year's prom-goers save both time and money, while still arriving in the perfect ensemble on the big night.

Tip 1: Decide on a Style that Reflects Your Personality

Each year, there are more and more prom fashions to choose from. To optimize your look, consider picking promwear that reflects your personal style. Do you love Old Hollywood glamour? Rich fabrics such as satin, silk and taffeta are the way to go. Is retro more your speed? It's all about vintage! Dress up your look with an ascot, brooch or a smoking jacket.

Upscale doesn't have to mean unreasonable -- online you can do luxe for less. Whether your style is Red Carpet Glam, Sleek and Chic or Swanky Vintage, you can find it all online. From tux to tiara, you can find it all.

Tip 2: Make a Checklist, Budget and a Timeline

Once you have made your checklist, create a budget you can work with and commit to NOT overspending. You don't need to break the bank to have an incredible night! Work with a group of friends so you can share the expenses. This will also allow you to do some things you might not have been able to afford on your own. With so many things to remember, something is bound to slip through the cracks if it's not written down. Plan ahead for the big day by compiling a detailed checklist of all of the important tasks that need to be completed; each task should have a projected "due date," to ensure that you and your partner are on task. Be sure to leave yourself plenty of time for the same-day details, like your hair and makeup, which might take longer than you expect.

Tip 3: Avoid the Mall by Shopping Online

"Now more than ever, shopping online can help minimize unnecessary stress and save time," says Hillary Mendelsohn, author of thepurplebook: The Definitive Guide to Exceptional Online Shopping. "Many retailers offer a greater selection of merchandise online, as well as special promotions and discounts." Don't waste your weekend at a crowded mall that might not have the right dress or tuxedo in stock when you could find something unique, fabulous and within your budget from the comfort of your own home in a matter of minutes.

Tip 4: Research the Return Policy before Buying

Thankfully, many online retailers have made the returns process so simple and convenient that you can bring the dressing room home and order several items knowing that the merchandise can be easily returned. Before purchasing anything, however, be sure to check the retailer's return policy. Determine how many days are allowed for the return or exchange process. Be sure to find out whether the retailer provides a pre-paid return label for quick-and-easy shipping from your home, office, or nearest post office. If you are ordering shoes online, remember to wear them for an hour INSIDE the house to make sure they are comfortable -- that way, if they are not the right fit, you can still return them. Once you decide they are the perfect fit, make sure to scuff the soles and break them in a little before the big night.

Tip 5: Find Creative Ways to Get More for Less

Don't feel restricted by a tight budget. Skip the visit to that expensive nail salon and invite your girlfriends over for an afternoon manicure/pedicure party instead! When you are looking for the perfect Prom dress, maybe it will be perfect for your cousin's wedding too! Buy accessories you will use with other outfits. Also, find an outfit that will be a long-term investment in terms of "cost-per-wear." Avoid the ultra-trendy and choose a dress or a tuxedo that you know you'll wear again and again. If renting a car or hiring a limo proves to be too costly, consider a "car-share" with friends (as long as you have a designated safe driver). As an alternative to a rose corsage, don't rule out less expensive, but equally lovely blooms, like lilies or daisies. Or try some clover or some pretty leaves or herbs as a wristlet or boutonniere.

Tip 6: Stay Flexible

If you want your prom night to run smoothly, be prepared for the unexpected. What if your strappy sandal breaks? What if you discover a lipstick or makeup smudge on your suit lapel? Bad haircut or hairdo? Stay calm, cool and collected. Be sure to incorporate "disaster planning" as part of your prom checklist and timeline. With a contingency plan in place, you will have a number of options to ensure that your magical evening is not ruined. Stock your purse with safety pins, hair clips, aspirin, breath mints, disposable camera and stain remover packets just in case. You can one stop shop for all of these necessities online too.

Tip 7: Leave Your Worries Behind

When the big night rolls around, bring your best attitude and remember that the most important thing is that you have a good time! Get ready, get dressed and prepare to dazzle -- you and your friends will have a night to remember, and that is what Prom is all about.