RECYCLING YOUR PROM DRESS

Wednesday, July 6, 2016

From the date, to the dress, to the shoes, and the accessories, prom has consumed your life since the date was revealed. Now that it's over, what do you do with all those pretty clothes that you likely won't have many opportunities to wear again?
 
 
The reality is, every school has a prom, but not every student is financially secure enough to be able to attend.
 
 
Luckily, several organizations have come up with a few “pay it forward ideas”:
 
 
 
DonateMyDress.org is the first national campaign designed to encourage girls around the country to donate their prom and special occasion dresses to those who cannot afford them for prom, sweet 16, quinceañera or formals. The site features a directory of local dress drive organizations across the U.S. that will enable girls to easily find out where in their local markets they can donate or receive a dress. In addition, DonateMyDress.org contains information on upcoming events and special promotions, a photo gallery of real girls donating and receiving dresses, as well as links to content on prom and quinceañera planning, hair and makeup tips, and other worthy causes.
 
 
DonateMyDress.org is part of the Hearst Teen Network, which includes the industry's leading teen brands — CosmoGirl, Seventeen and TeenMag — and MisQuinceMag. With more than three million monthly unique visitors, the Hearst Teen Network is one of the top 10 ranked entertainment news web sites, according to ComScore Media Metrix.
 
 
 
Fairy Godmothers, Inc. mission is to help provide a special high school prom experience for qualified high school girls whose financial situations are such as otherwise would preclude their ability to attend their prom by providing them prom gowns, shoes, and similar accessories which have been donated to the organization. They provide prom gowns that have been donated to the organization. If you wish to donate a gown, please make sure the gown is less than five years old, dry cleaned, and in great condition. Cash donations are gratefully accepted through PayPal. There are many ways to Contribute to Fairy Godmothers, Inc: donate a gown or accessory, donate your time, help us spread the word, donate money, or become a sponsor.
 
 
 
Please consider donating your time, money, and gently used dresses to help all students with the opportunity of attending the prom of their dreams.

WHAT NOT TO WEAR: PROM EDITION

Wednesday, July 6, 2016

Don't overdo embellishments:
Adding a little bit of sparkle with body glitter, sparkly eye shadow, and the perfect jewelry is a must. However, any and all of these can easily be overdone and your photos will prove it. Too much bling will call attention to you in a negative way and upstage your look for prom.
 
 
 
Don't wear uncomfortable shoes:
Prom is a dance! And even if you don't plan on hitting the floor all night long, it will definitely distract from your look if you have to kick your shoes off after 30 minutes. Choose stylish, yet comfortable shoes so you'll look complete all evening. Try breaking them in before prom night by wearing them around the house and scuffing them up on your driveway to avoid slipping.
 
 
 
 
Don't get a spray tan or facial right before the big night:
This advice likely goes without saying...Spray tans look best after a few showers to tone them down. Most dresses look better with natural looking skin tones rather than orange. Spray tans are a great way to look sun-kissed without exposing your skin to harmful UV rays, but moderation is best about a week out.
 
 
The same is true for facials. While facials will rid your complexion of impurities and create a healthy glow, they can often cause breakouts before the benefits are realized. A week and half before prom is an optimal time to treat your skin to some r and r.
 
 
 
 
Don't spend a fortune on your dress:
Prom is a big deal, especially if it's your Senior Prom. But, you'll likely attend several more formal functions in college, and then plan a wedding someday. This means there will be lots of opportunity to buy formalwear, so don't blow the budget on a dress you'll probably not have the opportunity to wear again.
 
 
 
Don't wear anything too revealing:
Although prom is a right of passage you've been waiting for through most of your teenage years, as a promgoer you are still a minor and ought to dress like one. Plunging necklines and skirts that cling like second skin will take away from the youthful enjoyment that prom should be. Not to mention, it may give your parents a coronary as you meet your date at the door!
 
 
 
So, do yourself a favor, and create prom photos that you'll be proud to have follow you through life.

PROM FASHION FOR GUYS 2013

Wednesday, July 6, 2016

Prom season is here and every where you look there is prom fashion....for her.  What about the guy? Mr. Burch Formal Wear is here to help out. Take a look below for some of our prom tips just for him.

1.  Make sure it fits

Make sure your tux fits like it should. This means the shoulder seams should hit at the actual shoulder (and not halfway down your deltoid), the sleeves don't come past your thumbs, and you can't fit more than a fist in between the fastened jacket and your chest. As for the pants, a little break is okay; a lot of break is unacceptable.

2.  Color can be good
You're used to the classic pairing of getting a jacket and pants together, but why not try something a little different?  Adding color with your tie or socks can really add some personality and still keep that polished formal look.

3.  Don't skip the details
Is your bow tie going to have classic tapered ends, or a more modern square shape? Think about which option will look best with your lapels, and in proportion with your overall outfit.  The finishing touches matter most during formal occasions, when they're the only things separating you from the rest of the penguin pack.

4.  Should you suit up?
If you happen to have a more open-ended dress code, you might skip the formal trend and go for a suit that shows a bit more personality but is equally appropriate for the big night.

5.  Groomed the right way
You're going to have to shave.  If you want to keep some scruff, keep it cleaned up. Plan your haircut at the right time. About one week before the big day is enough lead to allow your sharply shorn 'do to settle in. You don't want to pose for pics looking like you just got out of the chair.


6.  Less is always more
Going heavy on the cologne isn't going to help you look any better, and certainly won't be fun for those closest to you all night (i.e. your date). A night like prom can be an occasion to break away from your usual scent and try something new. 


7.  Different can be good
A guy who gets his date a rose corsage is like the guy who goes to a great Italian restaurant and orders spaghetti and marinara; there's nothing wrong with it, but so many more exciting options are out there! Try an orchid or calla lily that will look unique amongst the parade of roses on the big night. Same goes for your boutonniere.


8.  Always be a gentleman
Step up to the plate and impress her by opening car doors, helping her to her seat, and standing when she gets up to go to the bathroom with six other girls. Remember that her parents and friends are going to hear a recap of every single detail about the whole evening.  What will she say about you?

Need some help with your suit or tuxedo?  Come see us at Mr. Burch and let us help.

PROM TRENDS FOR 2013

Wednesday, July 6, 2016

Mr. Burch Formal Wear has been around for a few years and seen a few prom seasons.  Let's take a look at Prom trends for 2013.

Chiffon:  Chiffon made a return to Formal Fashion Week for 2013.  This elegant material brings formal prom dresses to life.  A romantic look and feel for any girl especially with the material flowing as she moves on the dance floor. 


Ruffles:  Ruffles are huge for prom 2013.  Adding a feminine look to any gown, ruffles are a major fashion trend.  They add flirty flair to the already romantic look.  Throw in some sparkle and a ruffle accented gown could be on the hottest looks for prom.

Sweetheart neckline:  There is no better neckline for a strapless dress than a sweetheart neckline dress. It is without a doubt the most flattering of styles and it is sure to make unforgettable memories for years to come.


Metallic/Sequins:  Inspired by the glitz and glamour of the red carpet, metallic dresses and sparkly sequins will be all the rage this prom season.  Not sure which style you prefer?  Come by and visit the Mr. Burch Trussville location and speak with one of our customer service specialists.  We want you to look and feel your best for your big night. 



We don't want the guys to be left out!  Come see us at any of the Mr. Burch locations to redeem the $50 off tuxedo rental coupon below.   Whether you're looking for something classic or trendy, we're happy to help.