Every girl going to prom dreams of having a unique, perfect-fitting dress. This is the reality for junior Julia Casapulla, who will attend prom wearing a dress she and her mom are making.

Casapulla chose to make her own prom dress opposed to traditionally buying one so she could perfectly customize the design and shape.

“I wanted something I could have complete control of instead of settling for a dress, and I have always enjoyed working on these type of projects with my mom,” Casapulla said. “It is a fun thing for us to do.”

Casapulla has been sewing since she was seven, but wanted to work with her mom on this special dress. Because prom is approaching quickly, Casapulla has run into some time challenges with completing the dress.

“I think actually getting there [to mom’s work room] and doing it is the hardest part,” Casapulla said.  “The dress is fairly simple and [so is] sewing on the flowers…but getting to my mom’s work-room and motivating ourselves to make it [is difficult]. The base of the dress is ivory satin…and a fine tulle, as well as fake flowers have to be sewn on.”

However, according to Casapulla, having control over the dress outweighs the difficulties of making it.

Casapulla’s mom, Janet Casapulla, is a seamstress and sees the strengthened mother-daughter connection this project has helped them achieve.

“I enjoy spending time with her,” Janet Casapulla said. “I love hearing her creative ideas; it inspires me.”

Julia Casapulla has always had a passion for fashion and creativity.

“Since [Julia] was in elementary school, she loved to experiment with different looks, whether it was hair, makeup or fashion,” Janet Casapulla said. “She has always loved colors, always uniquely Julia!”

The Casapullas shared their advice for those interested in making their own prom dress.

“Start early, definitely give yourself a lot of time,” Julia Casapulla said. “You don’t want to panic and have it not come out how you want it to.”

“Start simple and just go for it!” Janet Casapulla said. “I have learned the most from my mistakes over the years.”