Affordable Prom Dresses for Women | Fashion Nova (2025)

FAQs

What is a good budget for a prom dress? ›

If you're expecting average prom dress prices to hover around $350-500, we have options for you, too. This yellow mermaid dress pulls out all the stops: a detachable waist drape, feathers, sequins, beads, you name it. They all come together to create a showstopping look.

For women, this usually entails wearing a long or short evening gown, cocktail outfit, or even a jumpsuit with elegant accessories like statement jewelry and high heels.

Suitable for most body types, the A-line dress is a popular prom dress style. This style is defined by a more fitted gown that highlights the bust and waist, flaring out into a skirt around the hips. A-line dresses might have more full skirts, or they could have flowing simple fabrics.

Consider your personal style and the formality of the event when selecting the length. Appropriate Necklines: Choose a dress with a neckline that you feel comfortable in and that adheres to your school's dress code. Avoid excessively low-cut or revealing necklines for a more modest look.

The person who asks someone to prom is responsible for paying for the night's expenses, traditionally. However, it is more common now for couples to share the costs of the evening, as proms can be very expensive.

Consider hosting prom at a more affordable venue, such as a community center, school gym, or even outdoors if the weather permits. These venues often cost less than traditional banquet halls or hotels, allowing you to allocate more of your budget to other aspects of the event.

In conclusion, the most popular prom dress color is red. Red is a bold and vibrant color that exudes confidence and energy. It is a versatile color that complements a wide range of skin tones and looks great on all body types. Red prom dresses are also timeless and always in style.

Dresses may not be cut below the bust line. Dresses can not have cuts, slits in them exposing skin underneath. Undergarments should not be visible.

Prom attendees may be limited by their schools to be juniors or seniors and guests under age 21. Before prom, girls typically get their hair styled, often in groups as a social activity at a salon. Prom couples then gather at a park, garden, or their own and their dates' houses for single and group photographs.

First, you should know that your best bet when buying a dress is actually going up a size. Now, don't freak out; that doesn't mean your gown is going to be falling down while you're on the dance floor – your seamstress is going to alter the gown ensuring that it hugs your body in all the right places.

Do you wear a bra under a prom dress? ›

Choosing the right bra for under your prom dress will depend on two main aspects: the neckline of your dress and the level of support you need. Some prom dresses come with built-in bra cups. These make it easier to go braless without worrying, especially if you have a small or medium bust.

Best Time To Begin

Ideally, you want to start prom dress shopping in January or February, assuming your prom will be early summer of the same year.

Don't: Show too much skin

While it's okay to show some skin at prom, try not to go too overboard. You want to look classy, not trashy! Stick to dresses that fall below the knee or higher. If you're wearing a strapless dress, don't pair it with heels that have very high heels.

Top Prom Dress Necklines for 2024

One-shoulder styles offer an edgy, asymmetrical look, while off-the-shoulder gowns are the perfect blend of flirtatious sass and timeless charm.

Girls spend anywhere from under $100 on a dress up to $500 and more (For more information and a breakdown of typical prom costs, check out the Prom Guide).

The price of a new prom dress could range from $85 to $900, but most people will spend an average of $400 to $500, said Kunal Madan, co-founder of Amarra, a dress company.

Did you know the average high school girl spends $300-$700 on her prom dress? That's without alterations! Designer prom dresses from designers such as Sherri Hill and Jovani on average go for $700-$1,500, again not including alteration costs. The cost of our custom prom dresses ranges from $500-$1,000.

If the dress is in perfect condition you may get close to 30-50% of the original retail price. Off-brands may actually sell better on Craigslist, or to a younger friend. Ask your younger friends, younger Sister's friends, etc if they know any one that would like to buy your dress.