By Bev Davis

Register-Herald senior Editor

Next Saturday, the 11th annual Bridal, Prom & Special Occasions Fair will offer a first look at 2010 formal wear.

“We have some beautiful gowns this year,” said Tom Harvey of Harvey’s Fashions and Bridals in Beckley, one of the show’s four sponsors.

Harvey’s showcases some of the newest styles in bridal and prom gowns, along with formal wear for all ages during back-to-back fashion shows at 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. in the Hulett C. Smith Theater at Tamarack.

“We get great feedback from the people who attend the shows,” Harvey said. “Our goal is not only to showcase a wide array of styles, but to provide a high-quality fashion show.”

Fashion trends come and go, but the ball gown design remains a classic staple in wedding fashions, Harvey’s said.

“The ball gown silhouette is the gown most girls dream of wearing. We have some people who want styles that are cutting edge and really different, and we try to provide those, but I think most of our brides are looking for something classic and elegant.”

Modifications of the style can provide figure-flattering alternatives for a wide range of sizes and body styles, he said.

Sheath styles lend a more elegant line, and a variety of strapless or draped bodice and one-shoulder styles are great to show off well defined arms and shoulders.

“It’s important to begin shopping early for your bridal or prom gown so you can see how you will look in the various styles,” Harvey said. “You don’t want to come up to the last minute and just take whatever is available. Your wedding or your prom is a very special event, and you want to look your very best and find a gown that is the most flattering for you.”

Brides in 2010 can choose simple elegance or choose from a variety of all-over embellishments, including dainty bows, sashes with splashes of color or eye-catching box bows or classic rosettes.

For the bride who prefers sequins, styles range from those with the light-catching features only on the bodice or covering the entire gown.

“Designers know women want to be more individualized in their styles, so they provide a lot of leeway. There’s something for everyone. You just have to take the time to shop and to find out what looks best on you,” Harvey said.

When it comes to prom gown, rich details such as ruching along the bustline, ruffles and shimmer and shine are among the popular favorites, he said.

“Color is a big feature when it comes to prom gowns. The palette runs the gamut from soft pastels to rich, bold colors. Black is even a popular choice for prom gowns this year.”

Whether it’s overall pleating of a knee-length short A line prom dress with ruffles or an exquisitely embellished one-shouldered style prom dress, there are plenty of different styles. Hemlines vary from thigh-high and knee-length short length prom dresses to a bubble hem or ruffles on knee-length short dress.

The trend toward more embellishment can hide a multitude of figure flaws. There are pleats to hide bulges and create the illusion of a longer line. Unique styles with embellishments of flowers or patterns in the material can produce a slimmer appearance. Beads, bows or bands of sequins at the waistline can draw the eye to the embellishments and away from subtle figure flaws.

“Here again, it’s important to shop early and try on different styles,” Harvey said. “Something hanging on a rack might not appeal to you at first, but when you get it on, it can be stunning.”

Many of the styles will be on display during the fashion shows at the annual Bridal Fair sponsored by Harvey’s, The Register-Herald, Belk, Tamarack Conference Center and Flowers by Nancy.

The show is designed to provide one-stop shopping for items ranging from prom and bridal wear for both genders and all ages to options in photography, invitations, special music, honeymoon hideaways, reception sites, cakes and floral options and more.

There is no admission for the show, which will be held from noon to 4 p.m. at the Tamarack Conference Center.

— E-mail: bdavis@register-herald.com