The Best Prom Dresses

Iwemek Long Prom Dress

Floor it

This elegant gown is a timeless option that's perfect for the big event.

Best Full Length

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With dozens of different ways to wear it, this prom dress is a versatile solution to your formalwear problems. Made from a polyester and spandex blend, it’s a comfortable and easy-to-wear gown that gives you an elegant and sophisticated overall look. Wear it as a classic V-neck style, or use the two long straps to create a totally different silhouette; from a halter style to a one-shoulder design, the options are nearly endless. Thanks to that, you can achieve the perfect look for your prom.

Pros:

• Two long straps give you endless styling options for a versatile dress
• The polyester and spandex fabric is comfortable and lightweight
• It’s not just for prom — this dress is appropriate for almost any formal occasion

Cons:

• The lighter colors may be slightly sheer
• It’s very stretchy, so you may want to size down

Dressystar Retro Rockabilly Prom Dress

The past is always present

This retro dress instantly gives you a vintage feel for your special event.

Best Vintage Look

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This fit-and-flare dress is the perfect classic style to make a statement. With a demure round neckline and cinched waist, it’s a fashionable and elegant overall look. The full circle skirt flares out from the waist, creating a flattering silhouette that gives you that old Hollywood glam. Channel your favorite celebrities like Audrey Hepburn in this retro dress to make prom a night to remember.

Pros:

• It’s made from 90% cotton fabric so it’s super breathable and cool, even in warmer temps
• The dress can be worn as is or with an underskirt for an extra hint of personality
• With a midi-length skirt, it’s not too revealing

Cons:

• The fabric wrinkles easily
• The bust area runs large, so it may not fit properly for those who are smaller-chested

Woosea High Neck Mermaid Dress

Dress for success

With flowing ruffles and a sexy slit, this mermaid style makes a statement.

Best Mermaid Style

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On this dress, the high neckline and side slit work together to show just the right amount of skin. The fitted bodice cinches the waist, and the floor-length skirt has ruffles along the entire hem to add some body and movement to the overall design. As the final touch, the side slit reveals a little bit of leg and gives the dress that one-of-a-kind feel that’s perfect for special occasions.

Pros:

• It’s made from stretchy fabric, so it’s comfortable and not constricting and to wear
• Because of the high-low hemline, it works for taller women easily without alteration
• You can wash it in the washing machine to save time and hassle

Cons:

• If you’re petite, the dress may be too long
• It runs a bit large, so consider sizing down

Ever-Pretty Sparkling Gold Sequin Mermaid Dress

Sparkle and shine

Glitter under the lights on the dance floor in this full-sequin ensemble.

Bes Sequins

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This elegant, one-shouldered gown is a showstopper. With head-to-toe sequins, it’s a sparkling frock that won’t go unnoticed. With dark burgundy sequins at the top that fade into an elegant gold shimmer at the hem, this dress is a unique take on the classic ombré style.

Pros:

• Even though it’s fully sequined, the sequins won’t scratch or irritate your skin
• The bust is padded for extra support
• It’s fully lined for a higher-quality overall look

Cons:

• It runs small, so consider sizing up
• Because it’s fully sequined, the dress is harder to alter

VFShow Off-Shoulder Bell Sleeve Party Dress

Cold shoulder

Elegant lace and an off-the-shoulder silhouette give you a totally timeless look.

Best With Sleeves

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This sultry lace style is the perfect way to incorporate your favorite trends into your prom look. The off-the-shoulder neckline helps to frame your face and elongate your neck for added elegance, while the sheer sleeves add a hint of sexiness. The design of the flared sleeves gives you dynamic movement, and a side slit shows off some leg while also ensuring you don’t feel constricted so you can dance the night away.

Pros:

• The fitted silhouette helps to accentuate your curves and flatter your shape
• Flared sleeves add a trendy element to the otherwise classic silhouette
• The side slit has an adjustable zipper, so you can adjust it to suit your comfort level

Cons:

• It runs small, so size up one size
• Because it’s fully lined, the dress is on the heavier side

Frequently Asked Questions

Are prom dresses long or short?

You can wear either a long or a short dress to prom. If you opt for a shorter dress, go with a more formal cocktail style to ensure it aligns with the formal dress code.

Do prom dresses run small?

Typically, formal wear runs smaller than normal clothing, so you may need to size up in your prom dress for a comfortable fit.

How do prom dress sizes work?

Prom dress sizing depends on the designer. Most will run in straight sizes, similar to more casual dresses, from 0 to 16. Be sure to try the dress on before you wear it, because like all clothing, sizing may differ between brands.

About the Author

Hannah has always had an eye for fashion and beauty and is often inspired by the styles she sees on the streets of her beloved New York City. She closely follows the top fashion blogs and icons, and her goal is to help everyone look and feel their best through their clothing choices. Hannah’s work can be found in Boston Magazine, Hamptons Magazine, and more.

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