Most girls tugging cotton candy, blush, rose and coral prom gowns from mall racks probably aren't motivated by what the color "says." But color definitely communicates.

According to the traditional floral chart, those teetering into proms wearing pink and its gentle-hued cousins will be visions of "grace," "appreciation," "sweetness," "joy" and "gentleness," things many a mom might take exception to after a day of prom-dress negotiations.

Pantone, the color wizards who track the shades of popularity across the industry, say the pinks, pastels and whisper-soft colors come from designers "reflecting a mood of hope and optimism as New York moves forward more than a year after the 9-11 devastation."

This year has been a departure from past spring fashion seasons, when runways were saturated with hot, tropical hues.

"Through their choice of colors, designers have evoked a sense of beauty and renewal, which, after all, is what spring has always been about."

Joy Kraft