Winter dance wow: maybe it's your first school dance. Maybe it's your friend's bat-mitzvah. No matter what the occasion, here's how to have the perfect big night out!

Girls' Life, Dec, 2003 by Jennifer Pangyanszki

Festive moods. Great music. Mistletoe! What's not to love about the holiday dance season? We have everything you need to know for a fabulous time at your next major school dance or party--from getting dressed to slaying stress.

THE PREPS

You want to be cool, calm and collected when you get to the event, not freaked because you got yourself together at the last minute. Here's your pre-dance battle plan ...

FIRM UP YOUR PLANS. Tickets? Who knew you needed tickets? Find out if you have to get them in advance or at the door. A couple days before the dance, call around and plan who's going with you, where you're meeting and whose parent is driving. Make sure you have a ride, because, sadly enough, the dance will go on with or without you.

CALL DIBS ON THE BATHROOM. Sounds weird, we know, but you don't want to find out your pesky big sister is getting ready for a date on the same night and you can't get anywhere near the bathroom. Check with the fam to make sure you're all clear. It might not hurt to get the 'rents to witness your restroom reservation.

FORECAST YOUR FASHION. Find out in advance if dress is casual or formal. You don't want to be the only belle at the ball dressed like Cinderella.

And for goodness sake, plan your outfit in advance so you don't end up in panic mode on dance night, frantically tossing all your clothes into a reject pile. A new outfit would be super, but if your budget won't cover it, no big deal. Borrow from your BFF for a new-to-you look. If you've been eyeing her sparkly top, ask to swap! She may be dying for your beaded choker.

WHAT'S YOUR 'DO? Do a dry run of whatever fabulous style your tresses will sport the weekend before. That way, you'll really know if you can pull it off (you may need mom or sis to help) and how much time it will take. Up 'dos are great because they keep hair out of your face while you're dancing, but be prepared with backup bobby pins. Down is fine, too, but why not add a little extra sparkle with a jeweled accessory like glittery bobby pins?

MAKIN' UP IS HARD TO DO. If you're not allowed to wear makeup, but you want to, it's negotiation time. Choose one product, like lipstick or mascara, and make your case to the 'rents.

If they won't budge, here are a few top-secret non-makeup tricks (don't tell them we told ya): Pinch the apples of your cheeks (just a little bit!) for a rosy glow, dab a tiny amount of Vaseline along your lashes for fullness, and use tinted lip gloss for subtle color.

THE FINAL HOUR. Leave yourself at least an hour to get ready. To relax, take a long aromatherapy bubble bath. If you're filled with anxiety, remind yourself that the easiest way to have fun is to be yourself--the everyday you who doesn't hyperventilate or pace around in circles. Eat something light--you'll want the energy to dance the night away but don't want to end up in a food coma. Obviously, avoid garlic, onions and other bad breath-causing foods, and skip any meals that could upset your stomach (we've sworn off fettuccine Alfredo).

THE ARRIVAL

Make a slammin' entrance at the dance--you'll keep that confidence for the rest of the night.

PEP UP. If your first instinct is to scurry into a corner, give yourself a personal pep talk first. Slap on a smile, push your shoulders back and hold your head high. Walk into the room with the attitude that everyone's been waiting for you!

HIT THE PUNCH BOWL. Hitting the scene with friends is the best way to start your night off right, but if you're solo, don't panic. Head to the refreshment table for punch--it'll give you something to do, and it's also an opp to scope out the scene.

MINGLE. After you've hung out with your friends, break away to talk to a few other people. Don't forget that this is a social event--get out there and mix it up! Move around the room so you don't get taken for a wallflower. You look too fob to hide!

DANCE FLOOR DIVA

OK, so we can't get Wade Robson to choreograph your routine, but there's no reason you can't get out there and bust a move on the dance floor.

STRUT YOUR STUFF. You don't need to have J.Lo's moves to show 'em what you've got. Think about your most fab dancing experience ever. Was it your BFF'S slumber party? Your cousin's wedding? In front of the TV in your living room? Chances are, it was somewhere you felt free enough to let loose. Well, what are you waiting for? Dancing is what dances are for, so have fun doing it!

* Listen carefully for the beat. Don't be afraid to sing out the lyrics if you love the song. The whole crew might join in.

* Move your whole body. If your neck or arms or feet are stiff, you won't look natural. And, yes, work those hips!

* Watch other dancers. You can get ideas for some cool moves without totally mimicking someone. Just fold it into your rotation, along with the moves you picked up from TRL.

* Dance like it's fun. Pretend no one is watching you. Soon, it will just be a good time!

* Keep confident! Keep it strong, and keep moving. All those hours you spent practicing in front of the mirror will pay off when you let go of your self-consciousness.