Prom season is quickly approaching, and for many students, it can feel more stressful than fun like it’s supposed to be. With so many options, from the little store in the mall to the online retailers, deciding where to shop can make a big difference.

After speaking with some students, there were three main factors that stand out when choosing the perfect prom dress: reliability, affordability and uniqueness. While there is no universal “perfect” place to shop for prom dresses, each option has distinct advantages and risks. 

One of the most popular choices when it comes to prom dress shopping is the local boutiques, such as TBC Occasions and Mimi’s Prom Denver. Shopping in person allows people to try on dresses, check the quality of the fabric and avoid unexpected sizing issues. It also allows buyers to “fall in love” with the dress before completing the purchase. 

Isabelle McAllister ‘27 purchased one dress online and another in person, saying that being able to physically see and feel the dress and doing so made a significant difference in her confidence. 

“What I liked about shopping in person is that I was able to see what the dress looked like and decide if I liked the material and the color,” McAllister said. 

Many boutiques like Party & Prom also limit how many times they sell the same dress to one school, which helps prevent multiple of the same outfits on prom night. However, that reassurance comes with a cost. Boutique dresses can often range from $300 to $700 dollars, which is not feasible for everyone. 

Department stores can also offer a middle ground between specialty boutiques and online retailers. Stores such as Nordstrom and Macy’s allow students to shop in person while often providing affordable pricing and return policies. 

“I got my junior year prom dress at Nordstrom, and I liked getting it in person so I could see how it fits before I actually bought it, and I didn’t have to worry about returning it if it doesn’t fit,” Brooke Poschl ‘26 said. “I am definitely buying my prom dress in person this year.” 

For those looking to stay within a tighter budget, online retailers have become increasingly popular. Websites such as Lulus and Lucy In The Sky advertise trendy designs for lower prices, making them more appealing alternatives. 

However, ordering online can still come with its uncertainty. Shipping delays, inconsistent sizing and differences in the material can create some added stress during the already busy season.

Alina Savalevskaya ‘27, who ordered her prom dress from Princess Polly, said she was initially hesitant about buying it online.  

“I was nervous about size and quality because online shopping is always risky, but I ordered it well ahead of time, so I had time to return the dress if needed,” Savalevskaya said.

Despite these concerns, she continues to prefer to shop online.

“I order almost any dress I need online because I’ve had incredible success with online dress shopping,” Savalevskaya said.

Her experience reflects a broader trend among students who prioritize affordability and convenience over the reassurance of in-person shopping.

Ultimately, the best place to shop for prom depends on the individual. Students who value certainty and quality may find boutiques or department stores worth the investment. Those focused on budget and variety may choose resale for financial or quality reasons.

Prom is about more than the label inside a dress. The smartest shoppers are not necessarily the ones who spend the most, but the ones who plan ahead and choose what aligns with their best interests.