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Reviewed / Rent the Runway / PromGirl / JCPenney
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Prom season is right around the corner, and we know you want to celebrate in style. There's always a lot of excitement surrounding the celebrations, from finding a date, to booking a limo, to picking the perfect prom dress. While we can't help with the former, we can help with the latter.
Shopping for a prom dress requires you to consider a lot of factors: color, length, style, and brand, to name a few, which can be hard to properly examine when buying online. At retailers like David’s Bridal, Shein, and Macy’s, though, there are hundreds of prom dresses to choose from for dance-goers of all shapes and sizes. Below, are the eleven best places to buy prom dresses online.
What are the top prom trends for 2024?
To learn more about which trends to expect during the 2024 prom season, we chatted with celebrity costume designer Johnny Wujek, who just dropped a collection of prom dresses with JCPenney. Wujek, who has dressed stars like Kim Kardashian, Ariana Grande, and more, shares that prom is the moment to pull out all the stops. “Think of prom as your Oscars or Grammys,” he says. “Work the red carpet in gorgeous gowns and fun suits that really make a statement.”
When it comes to the details that’ll make you look trendy and unforgettable, look for soft, feminine details. “Bows are definitely popping up more and more in fashion trends,” he says. “I have a fun homage to the 80s velvet mini dress, which has a line up of colorful bows down it that definitely stands as one of the major show-stopping pieces in the JCProm x Johnny Wujek collection. Whomever wears this to prom is sure to turn heads and be the life of the party.”
1. Lulus
This year, invest in one of the best prom dresses on the market, available at Lulus.
- Prices: 👗👗
- Sizes: XXS-XL
- Return policy: 30 days
Lulus is a popular destination for dresses, and its prom selection doesn't disappoint. There are all different necklines (apron, boat neck, v-neck, scoop, strapless, surplice, cowl), all different sleeves (sleeveless, strapless, short, half, three-quarter, long), and all different lengths (mini, midi, maxi, high low). Not only does Lulus have prom dresses, but the retailer also offers prom shoes and accessories to finish off the look. You'll get free shipping on all orders over $50 and students can qualify for a 20% discount by verifying their status via Student Beans.
Our top picks from Lulus:
- Simply Delightful Light Blue Tie-Back Flutter Sleeve Maxi Dress for $88
- Feel the Romance Emerald Green Off-the-Shoulder Maxi Dress for $98
- Most Beautiful Day Pink Multi Floral Print Organza Maxi Dress for $158
2. Rent the Runway
This year, invest in one of the best prom dresses on the market, available at Rent the Runway.
- Prices: 👗
- Sizes: regular and extended
- Return policy: On a case-by-case basis
Want an extravagant prom dress without breaking the bank? Turn to Rent the Runway. The fully rentable service allows you to rent top designer dresses at a fraction of the cost. Simply type in your zip code, size, and anticipated dates of your rental (and return), and you're good to go. Choose between four to eight-day services, and consider this our little secret.
Our top picks from Rent the Runway:
- Rent the Hutch Avani Gown from $55
- Rent the Badgley Mischka Sequin Shirtdress from $60
- Rent the Bronx and Banco Emerald Velvet Gown from $110
Shop all dresses from Rent the Runway
3. Nordstrom
This year, invest in one of the best prom dresses on the market, available at Nordstrom.
- Prices: 👗👗👗
- Sizes: 2-18
- Return policy: On a case-by-case basis
There are hundreds of pretty prom dresses available at Nordstrom, whether you're looking for a flirty cocktail-length frock or a sleek, sequined ball gown. There are dresses in regular and plus sizes that range in price from $60 to $800. You'll also find high-end dresses from designers including Mac Duggal, Carolina Herrera, and La Femme.
Narrow down your choices by dress style—A-line, backless, empire waist, body-con, and so on—or neckline, like a delicate boat neck, a daring plunge, a trendy halter, or an unexpected turtleneck. Nordstrom also allows you to sort the results by percent off (as well as from lowest to highest) if you're on the hunt for a deal.
Our top picks from Nordstrom:
- Dress the Population Audrina Strapless Gown for $268
- Alfed Sung Bustier Tie Back Gown for $269
- House of CB Sarai Feather Trim Stretch Crepe Cocktail Dress for $299
Shop prom dresses at Nordstrom
4. JCPenney
Shop JCPenney for affordable and trendy prom dresses for the 2024 season.
- Prices: 👗
- Sizes: 0-26W
- Return policy: 60 days
Look to JCPenney find stylish (and affordable!) prom dresses for any style from one of the oldest brands in the game. This year, JCP has partnered with celebrity designer and stylist Johnny Wujek on a special collection of formalwear in men’s, women’s, and genderless styles. JCPenney’s Chief Merchandising Officer, Michelle Wlazlo, had this to say about the year’s top trends: “We can also expect bright and vibrant colors, as well as sequins, to dominate prom trends this year as teens look to show up in bold, standout fashion. Bows are also having a major comeback!”
But to really stand out, Wlazlo says that details matter. “You can take a prom look from basic to bold by incorporating small changes that make your style truly stand out,” she says. “If you can customize or personalize your outfit, it goes a long way. JCPenney’s new prom styles found in JCProm with Johnny Wujek incorporate clever details that let teens switch up their look easily and express their own unique style.”
Our top picks from JCPenney:
- Johnny Wujek for JCPenney Tuxedo Jacket with Flare Pants from $37.80 with code SUNSHINE
- Johnny Wujek for JCPenney Womens Juniors Plus Short Sleeve Off-The-Shoulder Fitted Gown for $98.50 with code SUNSHINE (Save $120.45)
- Johnny Wujek for JCPenney Womens Juniors Plus Sleeveless Sheath Dress for $98.55 with code SUNSHINE (Save $120.45)
5. Amazon
This year, invest in one of the best prom dresses on the market, available at Amazon.
- Prices: 👗
- Sizes: 0-38 and XXS-8X
- Return policy: 30 days
Amazon is home to a vast selection of prom dresses in a variety of styles, lengths, and colors, from slinky black gowns to bright fit-and-flare mini dresses. Many cost less than $100, so it's a good place to shop if you don't want to spend a lot. Search according to size, color, price, brand, and average rating, and then skim the reviews with images to see how the dresses look in real life on other shoppers. If you're an Amazon Prime member, you'll receive free shipping and free returns on select dresses.
Our top picks from Amazon:
- Sarin Mathews Off the Shoulder Short Sleeve High Low Cocktail Dress for $44
- Ymsha Satin Aline Slit Spaghetti Formal Evening Gown with Pockets from $50
- Peiyjyusp Puffy Sleeve Off Shoulder Prom Dress from $70
6. Macy’s
This year, invest in one of the best prom dresses on the market, available at Macy's.
- Prices: 👗👗
- Sizes: 0-15 and 14W-22W
- Return policy: 90 days
Macy’s has a featured section for prom dresses on its website, where you can search by size, dress length, color, style, top-rated, and price. You can even filter by discount—from 20% to 70% off—or shop the "Created For Macy's" collection, which features limited-edition gowns available exclusively at the retailer. Prices range from $20 to $400. Another perk of shopping at Macy's? You can get your dress along with everything else you need for prom night—shoes, a clutch, makeup—all in one place.
Our top picks from Macy’s:
- City Studios Juniors' Off the Shoulder Satin Puff-Sleeve Sweetheart Gown for $107.40 (Save $71.60)
- Blondie Nites Juniors' Glittered Gown for $279
- Betsy & Adam Women's Mesh Ruffled Ball Gown for $310
7. Shein
This year, invest in one of the best prom dresses on the market, available at Shein.
- Prices: 👗
- Sizes: XS-4X
- Return policy: 45 days
Shein is one of the best places to buy a prom dress on a budget. After all, like a wedding dress, you're likely only going to wear it once! Filter through the thousands of "formal" or "night out" dresses by size, color, pattern, material, style, neckline, sleeve length, and price. You'll find classic silhouettes to edgier-of-the-moment designs starting at just $12. Bonus: For shoppers in the U.S., Shein currently offers free shipping on all orders in the U.S.
Our top picks from Shein:
- Belle Solid Color Collar Drawstring Pleated Back Crossover Elegant Velvet Wedding Guest Dress for $13.39
- Mod Solid Tie Shoulder Cami Dress for $17.49
- Belle Solid Color One Shoulder Mermaid Dress for $17.49
8. David’s Bridal
This year, invest in one of the best prom dresses on the market, available at David's Bridal.
- Prices: 👗👗👗👗
- Sizes: 0-23
- Return policy: 7 days
Metallics, sequins, and cut-outs, oh my! While David’s Bridal may be known for wedding dresses, it also sells gorgeous prom dresses in long, short, and two-piece styles and in both regular and plus sizes. On its website, you can filter by things like price, silhouette, sleeve, neckline, and trends.
If you want some professional guidance with finding the perfect dress, David's Bridal offers one-on-one appointments with stylists at its store locations across the country or you can chat with a stylist online 24/7. Whether you order online or in-store, you can get your dress tailored with David's Bridal's in-house alterations specialists.
Our top picks from David’s Bridal:
- Emerald Sundae Crepe spaghetti strap gown with ruching from $62.97
- Betsy and Adam Tiered mesh corset prom dress for $223.97 (Save $95.98)
- Jules and Cleo Patterned glitter corset ball gown for $239.97 (Save $159.98)
Shop prom dresses at David’s Bridal
9. Dillard’s
This year, invest in one of the best prom dresses on the market, available at Dillard's.
- Prices: 👗👗👗
- Sizes: 0-15
- Return policy: 30 days
In Dillard's prom section, shoppers can browse popular dresses, new pieces, and sale items in addition to filtering options by length, brand, color, sleeve length, and price. The product page for each dress features a "Complete Your Look" section, which recommends shoes, handbags, and other accessories to pair with your gown. Tip: Reviewers recommend checking the size chart for each dress—which varies by brand—to ensure you get the right fit.
Our top picks from Dillard’s:
- Pear Culture Plus Size Spaghetti Strap V-Neck Glitter Ombre Mesh Corkscrew Ball Gown for $209
- Blonde Nites Sweetheart Neck Strapless Illusion Lace-Up Back Corset Ball Gown for $269
- Glamour by Terani Couture One Shoulder Low Back Printed Ball Gown for $660
Shop prom dresses at Dillard’s
10. Anthropologie
This year, invest in one of the best prom dresses on the market, available at Anthropologie.
- Prices: 👗👗👗👗
- Sizes: 0-26
- Return policy: 60 days
Anthropologie doesn’t have a specific section set aside for prom dresses but instead has a robust dress section separated into different categories from little white dresses to black tie numbers. For prom, you’ll likely want to browse through the "Formal Dresses" section, where you'll find elegant floor-length gowns in luxe silk and flowy chiffon. Filter by style, sleeve length, length, color, size, price, and brand or sort your picks by the newest dresses or the top-selling.
Our top picks from Anthropologie:
- Hutch 3D Rosette Strapless Mini Dress for $198
- Hutch Hale Bare V-Neck Maxi Dress for $394
- Mac Duggal Indy A-Line Ruffled Back-Lace Chiffon Gown for $598
Shop prom dresses at Anthropologie
11. PromGirl
This year, invest in one of the best prom dresses on the market, available at PromGirl.
- Prices: 👗👗👗
- Sizes: 00-24
- Return policy: 7 days
PromGirl makes prom dress shopping a breeze with its easy-to-navigate website layout and design. First, you can shop by designer, what’s trending, size—including a large variety of plus sizes—and dress style. PromGirl carries popular brands along with its own highly-rated line designed exclusively for the retailer. Whether you’re looking for a glittery gown or a sultry two-piece set, PromGirl has you covered. There’s also a section devoted to dresses under $200 and an option to filter your results by body shape so you can find something that fits your budget and your body.
Our top picks from PromGirl:
- Plus-Size Sequin Mermaid Prom Dress for $210
- La Femme Long Prom Dress for $298
- Open-Back Shimmer Prom Dress with Feather Skirt for $299
12. Unique Vintage
This year, invest in one of the best prom dresses on the market, available at Unique Vintage.
- Prices: 👗👗
- Sizes: 4-22 and XS-L
- Return policy: 30 days
If retro dresses are your thing, Unique Vintage may be your best bet when it comes to prom prep. Think beaded flapper frocks and Coco Chanel-approved gowns. The quirky retailer offers silhouettes and shapes that conjure up images of Mad Men-esque cocktail lounges and sock hops. On its website, you’ll find a designated prom dress section, which you can browse by era—from the 1920s to the 1970s—color, print, size, and brand. Unique Vintage offers $7 flat rate shipping or free shipping for orders over $150.
Our top picks from Unique Vintage:
- Unique Vintage Plus Size Dusty Rose Glitter Tulle Cupcake Swing Dress for $148
- Plus Size Elegant Black Shimmer Off The Shoulder Dress for $148 (final sale)
- Cinderella Divine Powder Blue Strappy Prom Gown for $172 (final sale)
Shop prom dresses at Unique Vintage
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