Hi! My name is Mallory Melton and I am a senior at Arcadia High School in Phoenix, Arizona. Following is my application for the Free Prom Dress of Your Own Design 2010.

Even though I’m a senior, this will be my first year attending prom. In the past, I was unable to afford the various costs associated with going due to my parents’ low incomes. My older sister went twice and I loved looking at all the dresses as she tried them on and seeing her dressed as a princess. Since this year is my last chance, I am determined to go. I was ecstatic when I stumbled upon the contest page while searching for prom dress online. It’s difficult for me to find dresses that fit properly due to my lack of height, so the prospect of having a dress made just for me is irresistible. I’ve done some research on what I want and now I find a chance to get it! I’m very proud of my design and would love to see it made real, since it’s just right for me. Every girl likes the chance to be spoiled once in a while.

I chose blue (something like a cerulean shade, if you please) as the main color of the dress not only because it’s one of my school’s colors but also because it just happens to be my favorite. The fabric should be a soft taffeta, if possible. The dress should have a sweetheart neckline, with a tiny bit of silver lace peeking out from underneath and approximately two-inch straps. The lace, however, is not essential. There should be silver embroidery around the top and sides of the dress, branching off to meet just under the bust line. The embroidery should be a sort of leafy, flowery design. The skirt should form an a-line silhouette, with a flare just below the butt to give it a mermaid twist. The back of the dress should lace up. (Lace-up backs are my favorite!)

Thank you so much for your time and consideration!