Whether preparing for your prom or accompanying someone else, finding the perfect prom dress is likely your top priority. Inspired by the latest award show, red carpets like the Oscars and Grammys, we’ve compiled many trend insights and dress inspirations from celebrities like Zendaya. This year’s options range from elegant long mermaid gowns and romantic cottage-core dresses to sleek prom suits and trendy black sheer dresses reminiscent of Euphoria and gothic gowns inspired by Wednesday Addams. For those on a budget, affordable prom dresses on Amazon are also on the list.
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We’ve also taken to TikTok and consulted peers, friends, and students to gather more ideas about their dream prom dresses. Many prefer the traditional in-person shopping experience, trying various styles at favorite stores like Windsor, Jovani, Faviana, and Sherri Hill. Others are going all out with custom-made dresses from local designers to ensure a perfect fit.
If you plan to shop online, starting your search early is best, as popular styles can sell out quickly. If you find a dress you love, consider purchasing it in multiple sizes to allow for any necessary alterations. We’ve searched top prom dress websites to bring unique designs for every style and budget. Once you find your dream dress, all that’s left is to pair it with the perfect heels or trendy prom sneakers. Happy shopping!
Here are our top picks:
Timeless Full-Length Prom Dress
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These dresses, such as evening gowns and occasion dresses, are popular for prom nights due to their timeless elegance. Affordable retailers like Amazon and Windsor offer a wide variety of stunning options. Interestingly, wedding and bridesmaid dresses can also serve as excellent choices for prom. For example, a one-shoulder chiffon dress designed as a bridesmaid dress in olive can make a unique and beautiful prom dress. These versatile options blend sophistication and affordability, ensuring that every student can find a dress that makes them feel special on their big night.
Beautiful Pocket-Friendly Prom Dress
Finding the right prom dress does not have to cost a fortune. Beautiful prom gowns are available for less than $100 at retailers such as Nordstrom and Lulus. Many fashion influencers, like TikTok user _anna miller, have showcased the stunning dresses they found on Amazon, proving that affordable options look amazing on prom night. These retailers provide various styles and sizes, ensuring every shopper can find a dress that fits their taste and body type. Additionally, Amazon’s quick two-day Prime shipping is a lifesaver for those in a last-minute rush. With so many budget-friendly options available, you can look fabulous without spending a fortune.
Most Stylish Dark Prom combo
Black is a timeless and versatile color choice for prom dresses. It’s easy to wear and worry-free when it comes to accidental stains. Whether you’re drawn to the glitz and glam of sequins and rhinestones or prefer a more subtle and chic style, black prom dresses offer a range of stunning options. A corset ball gown can make a dramatic entrance, while simpler designs maintain elegance and sophistication. Here are some beautiful black prom dress ideas to inspire your perfect look for the night.
Most Whimsical Cottagecore Ensembles
Channeling Regency-era elegance with ruffles and empire-waist silhouettes is a sure way to make a statement reminiscent of Bridgerton’s Kate Sharma. You can choose a full-on floral mini dress from high-end brands like For Love and Lemons or opt for more casual yet stylish frocks rich in ruffles and intricate designs. To complete the look, skip the traditional corsage and consider adding a touch of extravagance with gloves, which are highly encouraged. These dresses combine classic charm with modern flair, ensuring a memorable and fashionable appearance at any event.
Top Mini Prom Dress
Drawing inspiration from Cassie’s winter formal look in season 1 of Euphoria, it’s clear that evening dresses don’t have to mean long gowns. Micro mini styles are a trendy option for prom. Countless cute cocktail dresses, such as sequin dresses, bodycon styles, and even a sequin feather trim mini dress, are available. These stylish options make a bold statement on prom night and are versatile enough to be worn again for other events. Choosing a standout mini dress ensures you’ll shine and turn heads while enjoying a fashionable and memorable evening.
Show-Stopping Mermaid Prom Dresses
When selecting a one-of-a-kind prom dress, it’s important to incorporate your personality and unique flair. Even a simple dress can be transformed with bold statement earrings or sparkly prom sneakers, adding a touch of individuality. Additionally, we’ve highlighted some cool dress styles below that will help you stand out in a crowd of fancy gowns. These tips and styles ensure that your prom look will be uniquely yours, making your evening memorable and stylish.
Most Glamorous Barbiecore Ensembles
If you love the Barbiecore trend as much as we do (we can’t get enough of Margot Robbie), this is your prom dress category. Consider pink in various colors, fabrics, and designs. If you have the extra money and want to indulge, we recommend the Anthropologie one-shoulder gown, which has a dramatic front slit. If you’re going to show off your heels, we have numerous lovely dresses with low hems to choose from! Coordinate your accessories to match the silver rhinestone accents on Lulus’ tulle maxi dress.
Stunning Goth-Inspired Dresses
If you are a Jenna Ortega fan, you know how iconic her character’s style is on Wednesday. Tiktokers went wild, duplicating her classic looks, so we took note and used the same gothic aesthetic to choose our prom dresses. The butterfly applique gown has stunning lace sleeves that exude a dark and sensual charm. We particularly adore the mesh accents on the back of the Hutch dress; Morticia Addams would be very proud.
Top Prom Suits
Who says the ideal prom gown is actually a dress? Prom suits are perfect for the dance floor and, more importantly, standing in line for post-prom fast food. They may not be prom gowns, but you won’t have to worry about losing ruffles, sequins, or rhinestones—look at the sculpted velvet suit or the shimmering satin alternative. What is the best part? You can wear any of these separately after prom.
Gorgeous Plus-Size Prom Dresses for Every Style
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This season’s plus-size prom dresses are incredibly entertaining, ranging from strapless ball gowns to off-the-shoulder minis. Spaghetti strap dresses, such as the silk one shown below, are ideal for achieving a sleek look. But if you want something more prom queen-esque, we can’t get enough of Amazon’s blue glittery sleeveless dress—we’re fairly positive Cinderella would choose it in today’s world.
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