How to Shop for a Prom Dress

Tips for shopping for your prom dress including fitting and alterations.

1. Do your research! When prom gets close there are lots of magazines like Seventeen and Lucky that have alot of ads for prom dresses. The Internet is a good place to look too! Even if you don't find what you're looking for at least you will have some ideas about what type of dress you want.
2. Pick dresses a size larger than normal. Prom dresses run at least one size smaller, just like wedding gowns.
3. Keep an open mind. Try on lots of different styles of dresses. You might love a dress you never thought you'd wear.
4. Try it on; dresses look better on you than on the hanger.
5. Listen to the opinions of your mom and/or friends as to what styles and colors look good on you. Just because you like the dress in an ad doesn’t mean it’s the dress for you.
6. Let the salesperson help you try on the dresses. They help you zip and lace up the dresses, hang them back up and save you time shopping.
7. Listen to the salesperson’s ideas because they know which body type the dresses look good on. They know which styles are hot and which styles have a great fit.
8. Let your friends know which dress you buy so that they will be able choose another style.There’s no way to guarantee that you’ll be the only one at prom with your dress since girls buy from bridal shops in neighboring towns and also online.
9. Start shopping in January or February when the selection of prom dresses is the largest. Buy your dress a couple of months before your prom to have lots of time for alterations.
10. Be okay with change. Almost every prom dress will need some alterations for a perfect fit. Always buy your prom shoes before your alteration appointment so the dress can hemmed to correct length.
11. Consider buying your accessories and shoes at the time you buy your dress. You'll have the dress on when trying on jewelry and shoes so you can see the complete look before you buy.
12. Being more expensive doesn't always mean better, especially when you have a budget to meet. Try online prom dress stores that offer surprisingly affordable prom dresses or auction site eBay.