TRENDS: Finding the Perfect Frock

So the Oscar red carpet never rolled out. That's okay. Nicole and Catherine couldn't strut their stuff this year, but you still can. It's time for spring formals, and if you're one of the hundreds of greek girls, you're probably planning your big night right now. Of course, you're also studying for orgo, running three miles a day, solving your friend's boy crisis, planning your summer job, staging/watching/ avoiding a protest rally and fighting for the last sushi tray at The Great Hall. And unlike Gwyneth or Kirsten, there's not a stylist in sight. What's a busy Duke girl to do?

As usual, the Recess Trends team has got your back. First, address the dress issue: You don't have one. If your search for a frock has been a flop, head for the obvious - the Streets at Southpoint. You can look like a babe in Bebe's silk print halter ($98) or rock it out in Caché's black tube dress ($68). If you want to go old school, check out Franklin Street's Time After Time and be a vixen in vintage - "even if you're innocent, there's nothing wrong with a dress that's been around. If you have time, try surfing the web: Bluefly (www.bluefly.com) and ShopBop (www.shopbop.com) are virtual warehouses of your favorite designers (including Susana Monaco, Betsey Johnson, and ABS). Order early for minimum dress stress. Still stuck? Call your friends. They know your style, your size and everything in their closets that you can wear.

The Trends team likes wearing Converse sneakers to formal. If you don't, try Soho Shoes in Brightleaf Square; they're super-helpful with lots to choose from. Bargain lovers, hit up T.J. Maxx on 15-501 and score designer soles without selling your soul - heels start at $20.

Next scope the new clutches from Stuart Weitzman, beautifully built and big enough to fit a flask, some cigarettes, and an extra pair of panties. Also exciting: the little bags from Le Sportsac - order from their website and you can custom-build your own. These too high maintenance? It's okay - Banana Republic, Gap and Old Navy have cute little purses without the pretense.

Now that you've got the perfect purse on one arm - you need the perfect guy on the other. The Trends team recommends a gracious invitation ($0), a sense of humor ($0) and some spunk ($0) when shopping for a formal date. Be yourself ($0) and guys will be silly putty in your hands. A date fits best when you actually like his personality, so don't worry what he looks like or if you want him, just make sure he makes you smile ($0). After all, having fun ($0) never goes out of style.

-Faran Krentcil