Whether you’re attending your actual prom or coming back as a date to someone else’s, finding the best prom dress is probably the first thing on your to-do list.
From classic long mermaid gowns, romantic cottagecore dresses, sleekprom suits, trendy black slip dresses that could have come straight out of theEuphoria set, and gothicgowns inspired by Wednesday Addams, and affordable prom dresses on Amazon, there’s no shortage of options.
But, a word to the wise: Since prom dress shopping happens mostly online, styles can go quickly. If you see something you like, you'll want to snag it — and maybe even in a few sizes in case you run out of time for alterations. We’ve scoured thetop prom dress websites to bring you unique designs for every style and budget. Now all you have to do is try them on, and then find the perfect heels (orprom sneakers) to go with it.
Our Top Picks:
- Best unique prom dress: ASOS Design, Luxe Sequin Faux Feather Trim Long Sleeve Minidress, $140
- Best long prom dress: Amazon brand One Shoulder Prom Dresses, $50
- Best short prom dress: MORGAN & CO. Sequin Skater Minidress, $79
- Best plus-size prom dress: Florens Plus Size Dress, $47
- Best prom dresses for small busts: Windsor Lucille Formal Lace Mermaid Dress, $70
Best Long Prom Dresses
Ah, the classics! Evening gowns and occasion dresses are the go-to for prom night for a reason. If you have the coin for splurge-worthy options, we love Sachin & Babi. But you can also find plenty of stunning picks at more affordable retailers like Amazon. (Pro tip: don't rule out wedding or bridesmaid dresses as viable prom options, either — the one-shoulder chiffon dress below is actually a bridesmaid dress in olive!)
Tulle Spaghetti Strap Corset Prom Dress
Sequin Evening Dresses
One Shoulder Prom Dresses
Sachin & Babi Hadley V-Neck Back-Bow Empire Gown
Best Affordable Prom Dresses
You don’t have to spend triple digits to find your perfect pick — retailers like Nordstrom and Amazon have cheap prom dresses for under $100. Many fashion influencers have also shown off how amazing their Amazon dresses looked on the special night (likeTikTok user _annamiller). From unique styles to extended size ranges, there are plenty of dress options to choose from, especially if you’re in a time crunch (hello, two-day Prime shipping!)
Wow the Crowd Strapless Lace Gown
Sequin Prom Dress
Ever-Pretty Women's Off-Shoulder Long Ruched Tulle Evening Dresses
Lyla Formal One Shoulder Sequin Dress
Best Black Prom Dresses
You can never go wrong with the color black. It’s timeless, oh-so versatile, and easy to wear (you don’t need to worry about accidental stains showing!). Pair it with any subtle pop of color (like a neon-colored handbag or shoes), and you’ll have the winning look of the night. Whether you prefer to go full-on glitz and glam with sequins and rhinestones (the corset ball gown is everything) or rather keep your look more subtle and chic, we’ve got some gorgeous black prom dress ideas for you.
Etsy Knitted Butterfly Dress
Black One-Shoulder Maxi Dress
Peixoto Oliver Dress
Lucy Taffeta Bow Mini Party Dress
Best Cottagecore Prom Dresses
From Regency-era ruffles to empire-waist silhouettes, you'd makeBridgerton'sKate Sharma proud if you go for one of these dresses. You can opt for a full-on-floral mini dress from investment brands like For Love and Lemons or shop for more casual frocks that don’t skimp on ruffles and design. Whatever you do, hold the corsage. Extravagant gloves are not included but are highly encouraged.
Garden Romance Magenta Floral Print Organza Maxi Dress
Kate Mini Dress
AZAZIE Baby
Yours Evermore Cream Swiss Dot Ruffled Midi Dress
Best Short Prom Dresses
Take note from Cassie’s winter formal look from season 1 ofEuphoria: Just because you’re in the market for evening dresses doesn’t mean you can’t go with micro mini styles. There are so many cute co*cktail dresses out there — including sequin dresses, bodycon styles, and even a sequin feather trim mini that you can absolutely wear again after prom — that would surely make you stand out.
House of CB Aida Satin Minidress
MORGAN & CO. Sequin Skater Minidress
ASOS Design Luxe Sequin Faux Feather Trim Long Sleeve Minidress
ASOS Design Gathered Lace-Up Satin Minidress
Best Unique Prom Dresses
One thing to consider when choosing a one-of-a-kind prom dress is how you will incorporateyou(your personality, your extra flair). You can easily make a simple dress look more unique by adding a pair of bold statement earrings or even sparklyprom sneakers. But we also highlighted the cool dress styles below that'll help you stand out in a sea full of fancy gowns.
Smileven Sparkle Starry Tulle Prom Dress
Sparkly Mermaid Off-the-Shoulder Ball Gown
Iris Lace Gown Nicholas
Valerie Short Sleeveless Party Dress
Best Barbiecore Prom Dresses
If you’re living for the Barbiecore trend like we are (can’t wait to see you on screens, Margot Robbie), this is the prom dress category for you. Think pink in all shades, fabrics, and designs. If you have the extra coins and can splurge, we suggest going for the Mac Duggal one-shoulder gown — thefront slit adds a dramatic flair. If you’re looking for a dress with a low hem to show off your heels, we’ve got some cute options for that, too! You can coordinate your accessories to match the silver rhinestone details in the fringe maxi dress from Lulus.
Here For the Show Hot Pink Sequin Lace-Up Fringe Maxi Dress
BHLDN Cali Satin Cowl-Neck Midi Slip Dress
Lulus Serenity Hot Pink Strapless Organza Maxi Dress
Mac Duggal One-Shoulder Jersey Body-Con Gown
Best Goth Prom Dresses
If you are a Jenna Ortega fan, you already know how iconic her character's style is inWednesday.Tiktoker's went crazy recreating her iconic looks, so we took note and applied the samegoth-y aesthetic to our prom dress selects. The House of CB velvet gown features cold shoulder lace sleeves that give off a dark and alluring appeal. We also love the mesh lace train in the back of the Lucille dress — Morticia Addams would be very proud.
Lucille Formal Lace Mermaid Dress
House of CB Cold Shoulder Long Sleeve Velvet & Lace Gown
Bardot Spot Mesh Corset Minidress
V. Chapman The Ophilia Dress
Best Prom Suits
Who says the perfect prom dress is actually a dress?Prom suits are ideal for the dance floor and (more importantly) waiting in line for post-prom fast food. They may not be prom gowns, but you definitely don’t have to worry about losing ruffles, sequins, or rhinestones — just look at the molded velvet suit or the shiny satin option. The best part? You can split up any of these and wear them as separates post-prom.
Asos Design Tall Velvet Molded Hip Suit Blazer
Lulus Very Merry Berry Red Satin Wide-Leg Trouser Pants
ASOS Design Extreme Oversize Blazer
Kyo The Brand 3-piece Sequin Set
Best Plus-Size Prom Dresses
From strapless ball gowns to off-the-shoulder minis, there are so many plus-size prom dresses that are truly fun this year. Spaghetti Strap dresses like the silk one below are great if you are after that sleek vibe. But if you want something that gives off more prom queen vibes, we can’t get enough of the navy sparkly sleeveless dress from Amazon — we're almost certain Cinderella would choose it in today’s world.
Florens Plus Size Dress
Reformation Jamen Knit Dress Es
Marguerite Silk Dress Es
Morgan & Co. Sequin Ruffle Crossback Gown
Best Cut-Out Dresses
Want to show a little skin while still feeling formal? There are plenty of ways to do so. The Peixoto Oliver halter dress features a cut-out waist that looks stunning. There are also plenty of classic evening gown styles that feature cutouts in the back for a fun surprise every time you twist and twirl around.
Edition Cutout Sequin Gown
Peixoto Oliver Dress
Shona Joy Luxe Twist Midi Dress
Garden Bliss Burgundy Cutout Maxi Dress
Best Designer Prom Dresses To Rent
Renting a prom dress is a great option to go with if you're looking to save some coins. Plus, you won't have to worry about buying a dress you'll only wear once in a lifetime. Sites like Rent the Runway and Nully offer a variety of incredible designer gowns and dresses you can rent for affordable prices. From strapless to puff sleeves and asymmetrical silhouettes, there are hundreds of rental styles to choose from. And who wouldn't want the chance to wear an exclusive designer item on prom night?!
Sachin & Babi Zofia Gown
Coperni Cutout Sleeveless Gown
Aureta Chloe Mini Dress
Elliatt Zuri Strapless Dress
Best Two-Piece Prom Dresses
You’ll need to make sure your school dress code doesn’t have any prom-specific rules, but if you’re in the clear to wear a two-piece, look no further than the below dress styles. These two pieces let you have fun with the neckline and length and we’re certain Maddy Perez would approve of the plunging v-neck satin maxi set and the sequin two-piece gown.
Madeline Satin Maxi Set in Teal
La Femme Embellished Lace Two-Piece Gown
Jump Apparel Two-Piece Sequin Gown
Stunning Impression Black Sequin Two-Piece Midi Dress
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
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I have a deep understanding of various subjects, including fashion, trends, and popular culture. My expertise extends to providing recommendations for prom dresses, including unique designs, affordable options, and styles suitable for different body types and preferences.
Prom Dress Concepts
The article discusses various concepts related to prom dresses, including different styles, budget options, and specific dress recommendations. Here's a breakdown of the concepts covered in the article:
Classic Long Prom Dresses:
- Classic long prom dresses, including evening gowns and occasion dresses, are highlighted as go-to options for prom night. These dresses are available at both high-end and affordable retailers, with options for splurge-worthy designs and more budget-friendly picks.
Affordable Prom Dresses:
- The article emphasizes that finding the perfect prom dress doesn't have to break the bank, with retailers like Nordstrom and Amazon offering cheap prom dresses for under $100. It also mentions the availability of extended size ranges and the convenience of two-day Prime shipping for Amazon dresses.
Black Prom Dresses:
- The timeless and versatile nature of black prom dresses is highlighted, with suggestions for both glitzy and subtle black dress options. The article recommends pairing black dresses with subtle pops of color for a winning look.
Cottagecore Prom Dresses:
- The article explores the cottagecore trend, featuring dresses with Regency-era ruffles, empire-waist silhouettes, and floral designs. It suggests options from investment brands as well as more casual frocks that don’t skimp on ruffles and design.
Short Prom Dresses:
- The concept of short prom dresses is discussed, with a focus on micro mini styles, sequin dresses, bodycon styles, and unique designs suitable for standing out at prom. The article references a specific character's look from the TV show "Euphoria" as inspiration for short prom dress styles.
Unique Prom Dresses:
- The article encourages individuals to consider their personality and extra flair when choosing a one-of-a-kind prom dress. It suggests making a simple dress look more unique by adding bold statement accessories or opting for cool dress styles that help individuals stand out.
Barbiecore Prom Dresses:
- The "Barbiecore" trend is highlighted as a prom dress category, featuring pink dresses in various shades, fabrics, and designs. The article recommends both splurge-worthy and more affordable options for individuals interested in embracing the Barbiecore trend for prom.
Goth Prom Dresses:
- The article caters to fans of goth-y aesthetic, referencing iconic character styles and encouraging individuals to embrace goth-inspired prom dress selects. It suggests dresses with dark and alluring appeal, including lace sleeves and mesh lace trains.
Prom Suits:
- The concept of prom suits is introduced as an alternative to prom gowns, ideal for the dance floor and post-prom activities. The article highlights the practicality of prom suits and suggests options for individuals who prefer a suit over a traditional dress.
Plus-Size Prom Dresses:
- The article acknowledges the importance of offering a variety of plus-size prom dresses, featuring strapless ball gowns, off-the-shoulder minis, and sleek, fun styles suitable for individuals with different body types.
Cut-Out Dresses:
- The concept of cut-out dresses is discussed, offering individuals the opportunity to show a little skin while still feeling formal. The article mentions various styles, including halter dresses and classic evening gown styles with cutouts for a fun surprise.
Designer Prom Dresses To Rent:
- Renting a prom dress is presented as a cost-effective and sustainable option, with sites like Rent the Runway and Nully offering a variety of incredible designer gowns and dresses for affordable prices. The article highlights the opportunity to wear exclusive designer items on prom night through rental options.
Two-Piece Prom Dresses:
- The article introduces the concept of two-piece prom dresses, emphasizing the importance of checking school dress codes before opting for a two-piece outfit. It suggests specific dress styles that allow individuals to have fun with the neckline and length, catering to those interested in two-piece dress options.
I hope this breakdown provides a comprehensive overview of the concepts related to prom dresses discussed in the article. If you have specific questions about any of these concepts or need further information, feel free to ask!