The Ultimate Guide to Prom Dress Shopping

Prom is one of the most exciting nights of your high school journey, and prom dress shopping is a big part of the experience. From the moment you imagine yourself walking into the dance, you know you want a dress that captures your special style and makes you feel incredible. But with so many options, where do you even start?

That's where we come in! Get ready to explore this ultimate guide that will give you all the tips and tricks you need to make prom dress shopping fun, stress-free, and successful!

Where to Shop for Prom Dresses
Prom Dress Shopping Tips
When To Go Shopping
Video Tour of the Store
Frequently Asked Questions

Where to Shop for Prom Dresses

Finding the perfect prom dress starts with knowing where to shop. While there are countless places to look, choosing a reputable boutique with a wide selection and a focus on quality can make all the difference. Here's what to look for:

In-Store Experience: There's nothing like seeing dresses in person, feeling the fabric, and trying on different styles to find the one that's just right. Look for boutiques that have experienced sales staff who will work with you to find a dress that suits you and ticks all the boxes. Our in-person Chicago dress boutique has dresses in every color, style, and size you can think of – check it out today!
Online Shopping: Shopping for prom dresses online is convenient and lets you explore a vast range of styles from the comfort of your home. Look for user-friendly websites with detailed photos, measuring guides, and other helpful resources that make it easy to find exactly what you want.

Why Peaches Boutique?

With thousands of designer dresses and years of experience helping prom-goers find their dream gown, Peaches Boutique knows how to make prom dress shopping a memorable, stress-free experience. Whether you visit us at our Chicago location or shop online, you'll love the variety and personalized service that ensures you find a fabulous dress that feels 100% you

VISIT OUR CHICAGO STORE

TESTIMONIALS

When To Go Prom Dress Shopping

Timing is everything when it comes to prom dress shopping. If you want the best selection and a stress-free experience, it's wise to start early — ideally a few months before prom. By starting your search sooner rather than later, you'll have a wider range of dresses to choose from, plenty of time to find the one, and enough time for any necessary alterations.

Here are a few tips on when and how to plan your shopping trip for maximum success:

Kick off your search in winter or early spring: Many prom dress collections are released early, so shopping in January or February can give you access to the latest styles before they're gone.
Avoid peak shopping times: Weekends can be crowded, especially closer to prom season. If possible, plan your visit on a weekday to enjoy a more relaxed, personalized shopping experience.
Schedule an appointment: If you're visiting a larger shop like Peaches Boutique, booking an appointment ensures you get dedicated attention from a stylist to help you find that perfect fit.

Pro Tip: If you're planning on making any changes to your fitness routine before prom, it's best to start early and shop when you feel comfortable with your body. Remember, your confidence is key to rocking any dress you choose! Last-minute alterations may be doable, but they're not optimal.

What To Wear Prom Dress Shopping

Prom dress shopping tips Here are some tips on what to wear to ensure a smooth shopping day:

Comfortable, Easy-to-Remove Clothing: Choose an outfit that's simple to take on and off so you can quickly change in and out of dresses without fuss.
Proper Undergarments: Wearing nude or strapless undergarments will give you a better idea of how each dress will look on prom night.
Bring Your Shoes: A comfortable pair of slip-on shoes will keep you comfortable while you shop. However, if you already know which heels you'll wear to prom, bring them along.
Hair Ties or Clips: Keep a hair tie or clip handy so you can pull your hair back to see how different necklines look.

Prom Dress Shopping Tips: How To Find the Perfect Prom Dress

Shopping for a prom dress is as much about the experience as it is about finding the one. With a few helpful tips, you can make the search enjoyable and stress-free, ensuring you feel your best in the dress of your dreams. Here's how to make the most of your prom dress shopping experience:

Consider Your Style: Think about the kind of look you want for prom — whether it's glamorous, bohemian, classic, or modern. But…be open to suggestions from your sales assistant. Even if you have a certain style in mind, trying on other designs can be surprisingly helpful — you may end up loving something you hadn't considered!
Experiment With Colors: While classic colors like black, red, and navy are always in style, don't shy away from trying on bold or unique shades. The best prom dress colors[1] complement your skin tone and bring out your personality — whether it's a sparkling silver, a deep emerald, or even a soft pastel.
Consider Your Body Shape: Certain dress styles flatter different body types, so don't hesitate to try on various silhouettes. A-line dresses, mermaid cuts, ball gowns, and fitted dresses each offer something unique. And yes, we have plus-size prom dresses in all the popular styles.
Think About Comfort: Prom is a night to dance, celebrate, and have fun! Make sure you're choosing a dress that's comfortable enough to move in so you feel confident and comfortable all night long.
Bring Inspiration: Collect photos of styles you love — whether from magazines, Pinterest, or Instagram — and use them as a reference. This will help your stylist or sales associate understand your vision.
Set a Budget: It's easy to fall in love with dresses of all price points, so decide on a budget beforehand to avoid any heartache.
Shop With a Trusted Friend or Family Member: A close friend or family member can offer valuable feedback. Bring someone who knows your style and will support you in finding a dress that feels true to you.

VIDEO: Peaches Boutique Store Tour

Get a glimpse of what you can expect to see when you visit Peaches Boutique's flagship store in Chicago!

Experience the Thrill of Prom Dress Shopping at Peaches Boutique

SHOP ALL PROM DRESSES

We understand that shopping for prom dresses is a big deal. With thousands of styles to choose from, both in-store and online, Peaches Boutique is here to help you find the one that makes you shine. Whether you're after a classic ball gown, a timeless A-line dress, or a fitted formal dress that hugs your curves, you're sure to find your dream dress.

FAQs: Your Prom Dress Shopping Questions Answered

When shopping for prom dresses, there are a few common questions that tend to come up. To help make your experience even smoother, we've answered some of the most frequently asked questions below. You can also check out our FAQ page for answers to general questions about Peaches Boutique.

How much should I budget for a prom dress?

Prom dress prices vary widely depending on the designer, style, and detailing. Setting a budget between $100 and $600 is typical for most prom dresses, though more elaborate designs or designer gowns can be higher. Remember to account for alterations, accessories, and shoes to get a full picture of your prom outfit costs.

How long does it take to get alterations done on a prom dress?

Alterations can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the complexity of the adjustments and the tailor's schedule. It's best to allow three to four weeks for alterations, especially during peak prom season, so you have plenty of time to ensure a perfect fit.

How can I keep my prom dress looking perfect until prom night?

To keep your dress in top condition, store it in a garment bag in a cool, dry place. Avoid exposing it to sunlight or moisture, as these can affect the fabric. If your dress wrinkles, a gentle steam or professional steaming closer to prom night can make it look fresh and photo-ready.