Finding the Perfect Prom Dress: Tips for Shopping Online and in Stores

Shopping for a prom dress can be a stressful occasion, but we want to take the strain out of all that searching and help you by making it a bit easier to enjoy the process.

After all, shopping for prom dress should be fun, so let’s make it fun! We’ve got a few tips on how to shop for your prom dress at online stores and in the high street or mall, so let’s get started!

Shopping for a Prom Dress Online

Many people find searching for clothes online is the best way. It’s quick, easy, and comfortable and there’s more choice than you’ll ever believe. Here are some tips that should make your life easier.

Visit as Many Online Stores as You Can

There are literally thousands of retailers out there, including big-name brands and some smaller outlets that have a more niche stock. We suggest you visit many of each, checking their styles and what they have to offer and also noting their prices.

You’ll find smaller retailers stocking upcoming designers, for example, at sensible prices, where you can get something truly different and be the one who sets a new trend. Make a list, ask friends for recommendations, and spend a few evenings browsing.

Look for Designer Outlets

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The great thing about online fashion shopping is discovering designer outlets. These are retailers who stock either this or last season’s designer gear at discount prices. This is a great way to bag some real bargains.

Check the Return Policy

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Many only fashion retailers will sell you a dress – or dresses – with a free return option. They send a pre-paid return label, so you can send back what you don’t want and get a refund.

Make sure you find a retailer offering this, as it allows you to try on multiple dresses at home.

Shopping for a Prom Dress in Stores

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For those who prefer to go to in-person shops – (and when buying a dress for a prom, it can be a good move) – here are our tips.

Choose a Few In-Person Stores to Visit

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If you have a favorite store, make it your first stop – but don’t make it your only one. Visit more than a couple of stores – we recommend choosing some you’ve never been in for this. And take a friend with you, one who you know you can trust to be honest!

Mix big-name high-street stores with independent boutique shops selling lesser-known brands, and you expand your choice considerably. Make a day of it, and have fun shopping for your ideal prom dress – you deserve it!

Make Use of Personal Dressers

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You’ll find that many of the bigger stores have personal dressers who will help you find the right dress and the perfect look. Make use of them, as these are professionals who know what they’re doing and who have dressed thousands of women over a long time. They’ll help you with the ideal fit for your body type and overall style.

Even in smaller stores, the proprietor will often be willing to help. They are passionate about what they are selling, and want you to recommend them to your circle of friends, so you’ll be sure to get excellent service from the smaller boutiques too.

Try-On Potential Prom Dresses Carefully

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You must try every dress you are considering – and not just for the way it looks. Comfort is vital; you want to enjoy wearing the dress at the prom and not have to adjust every couple of minutes. Take some time to ensure that the fit is spot on and that you feel right wearing the dress. Don’t worry about taking too long: the people in the shop know this is special for you, and they want you to look and feel great too!

Tips on Picking Your Perfect Prom Dress

Now that we’ve covered our shopping tips, there are a few other things you’ll want to keep in mind when selecting your dream dress!

Choose What Makes You Happy

What is perfect for you will not be for others. Choosing a prom dress is about choosing something that you like, that reflects who you are, and that you’ll be happy and comfortable wearing in front of all your friends. Remember – these memories last a lifetime!

The personality aspect is important. Let’s say you’re a quieter, retiring type – one who enjoys occasions but doesn’t want to be the center of attention. If this is you, you’re not likely to want a sequined, feathered, or neon dress. On the other hand, if you’re craving being the life of the party, feel free to let loose and choose a dress as dramatic as you want!

Plus, you don’t have to stick to your standard style. If you want to give an elegant, classic dress a try, even if you normally chase trends, go for it! And if you typically wear quiet clothes but feel like trying something new, don’t be afraid to show up in a princess ball gown!

Think About Accessories

So you’ve taken your time and found the perfect prom dress. But what do you wear with it? By this we mean do you accessorize, or not?

This will depend heavily on your style of dress. In general, simpler silhouettes in solid colors call for louder jewelry, hairpieces, and even capes or gloves. While an embellished dress or one with a complex neckline may feel too loud if you mix it with anything but understated accessories.

But just like with your dress, what is really comes down to is what makes you happy. If you have a sequined dress in a bold color, and you love the way a chunky costume necklace looks with it, then go for it!

Set a Budget for Your Prom Dress

It is essential that you go into things aware of what you can afford to spend. Set a prom dress budget defined by what you are willing to pay. If you have a contribution from your parents, use that as the limit, and perhaps add a little of your own savings.

You do not need to spend a fortune to buy a beautiful dress; there are lots of deals out there, and consignment and thrift shops can have both beautiful vintage and trendy looks!

Also keep in mind that you’ll want to include any accessories into your budget, as well as hair, makeup, nails, or anything else you may need!

Get Advice from Your Friends

Ask your friends what they’re wearing and what they recommend to you. But don’t feel you have to match them or take the advice they give. It’s simply a way of getting some ideas.

It’s a great chance to get together and plan how you are going to enjoy your prom too! You can even make a day of it and go shopping together, or sit around and plot out ideas together while watching movies and catching up!

Find the Right Prom Dress for You

That’s our guide to shopping for your prom dress both online and at the high street or mall. Don’t be afraid to be different and – most of all – be you. Choose a dress that reflects your personality and who you are, and you’ll feel like a million dollars and have the best prom in the world!