Before you start looking...
- Know your budget: this is the most important part! There's nothing worse than falling in love with a dress way out of your budget. Figure this out with your parents before doing anything.
- Know your size: this is helpful for ordering dresses online and reducing the chance of having to exchange sizes (just such a hassle!).
- Know what you like and dislike: you might figure this out as you start looking at dresses and trying them on, but if you know beforehand, you can set filters on websites and let the staff know at the store. Things to think about: dress color, sleeves/sleeveless/strapless, dress length, slits, cut-outs, jewels, etc. On the other hand, keep an open mind if you're not 100% sure, you may find the perfect dress that isn't what you were envisioning.
- Trustworthy sites over sketchy online sites: that dress is super cute AND it's super cheap... but the website is some site you've never heard of and looks a bit sketchy? Sometimes it's too good to be true. I'd rather pay more for a dress you can trust with a good return policy. Always google the website and its reviews (don't trust the reviews listed on the site- they're typically all mysteriously positive!).
- Discount sites and outlets: if you don't want to spend $98502 on a prom dress, I totally understand! We're in the same boat. I don't see the point of buying a super expensive prom dress that you're only going to wear once. Yes, you can resell, but there's always risk in that. The BCBG outlet is always a popular choice to go, and 6pm.com is the best hidden secret. (and totally safe! Promise! Make sure you check its return policy though because I've never returned anything from there.)
- Check back often: There are typically occasion sales where they discount some of the prom dress styles, so check back for your favorites at the various websites and stores!
- Check out other sections: Don't limit yourself to the "prom" section. There are lots of gorgeous dresses in the bridesmaid and evening gown sections!
My Recommendations
- Nordstrom
- Dillard's
- Belk
- Saks Fifth Avenue
- Nordstrom Rack (lots of short dresses!)
- David's Bridal
- Check the return policy: just in case. My family are huge fans of Nordstrom's return policy; it's awesome.
- If needed, find out how much alterations cost: this might just be me because I'm short, but I will probably need my dress altered, if it's complimentary with your purchase, take advantage of that!
- Do a double take to make sure it's good: It has happened to me, I bought something, and when we got home, we realized there was a tiny tear or something small, but yes, noticeable.
