Shopping for a prom dress can oftentimes be difficult and overwhelming. It can take multiple tries to find the dress that will make you shine on that special night. Here is a guide to help the pre-prom shopping stress and help make the process smoother.
Online:
In recent years, most prom dress shopping has been done exclusively online. Out of my 4 years in high school, I have only bought one dress in-store. There are numerous online dress stores that have beautiful gowns that are perfect for high school dances. For those looking to spend a bit more, sites like Revolve, Amanda Uprichard, VChapman Studio, StudioLexi, Shona Joy, and For Love and Lemons offer a great range of dresses. From sparkly and silky to tight or loose, there’s something for every style. On the more affordable side, sites like Hello Molly and Lucy in the Sky have just as charming and trendy choices. I usually begin my search on Pinterest, where I can look up specific details like color, material, or cut. Pinterest then shows me options from various sites along with links to them. It’s really helpful when I’m searching for a particular dress.
In store:
For in store shopping, I would recommend Terry Costa and WhatchamaCallit Boutique which are both located in Dallas. These stores specialize in sparkly, pageant-like dresses with glittering sequins, beads, glitter, or rhinestones. They have an immense amount of dresses, so I would have a clear idea of what you’re looking for or a specific color in mind to make your shopping experience easier. It is often very crowded, especially during peak prom season, so I would go when you have a free afternoon or arrive right when the store opens. If you are looking for a simpler dress, I would recommend Clover Boutique also located in Dallas. This store has more soft florals and pastel colored options. It’s a great option for those who want a more refined look without the heavy sparkle found at other boutiques.
Current Trends:
Florals and minimalistic designs are definitely making a comeback in this year’s prom dress trends. Compared to the sequins and feathers of prom dresses from years back, elegant dresses with pastel florals, silk, bows, or low-cut backs are definitely more common nowadays. Along with these dresses, embroidered ribbons for bouquets have also become popular as they add a personalized touch and look great in pictures. When shopping for prom, finding a dress that reflects your personality and style is the way to go. Feeling confident and embracing your authentic self is the best trend and will make your night truly unforgettable.