Prom is the biggest party in the academic calendar.
The evening marks the end of your time in school and the beginning of new adventures, whether you’re staying in education or getting into the world of work. Therefore, a statement look is required to see the year out in style.
Prom attire is iconic in its own right. Consider the extensive references to prom in Hollywood rom-coms and coming-of-age flicks. Think Sandy’s Fifties frock in Grease, Bianca’s pink crop top and tulle skirt in 10 Things I Hate About You and Janice Ian’s violet suit in Mean Girls. All these designs epitomise how a prom dress encapsulates personality and can make for a true fashion moment.
Naturally, plumes of feathers, swathes of sequins and forthy layers of pastel tulle spring to mind when pondering classic prom dresses. The Eighties was the height of prom dressing, with blockbusters such as Footloose and Pretty In Pink showcasing voluminous gowns replete with fanciful detailing that became synonymous with prom fashion.
While society has moved on from said prom dress codes, there’s still an element of costume to prom dressing. It’s the prime time to doll up with your friends and amp up the maximalism. After all, it’s the only prom you’ll ever have.
This is also the time to get creative. A dress isn’t the sole option for prom. Neatly tailored suits, jumpsuits and smart co-ords are unique ensembles for the keenly-awaited evening. For those who prefer to swerve skirt silhouettes, trouser cuts offer a welcome alternative.
A plethora of designers have incorporated prom silhouettes into their collections. Molly Goddard specialises in layered tulle concoctions which exude Eighties nostalgia. Oscar De La Renta has a penchant for ruched taffeta frocks. Simone Rocha channels voluminous femininity. There are plenty of prom-inspired looks to help you get started.
Our one piece of advice when searching for your dream prom outfit? If you find a piece you love, invest. Take it from someone who went to prom in a dress they never wore again. Spend on a piece to rewear and keep it to hand for future university balls, 21sts and other smart shindigs. Thank us later.
Discover the best outfits for prom from fairytale gowns to genderless three-piece suits and bid farewell to your school years in style.
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River Island Pink Embellished Shift Mini Dress
Have fun with your perfect prom night look. River Island’s beautifully embellished mini dress is a girlish ensemble to showcase your playful personality. Pair with some silver kitten heels and take the party by storm.
Buy now £90.00, River Island
Nobody’s Child Satin Bardot Gaia Maxi Dress
Available in sage or pearlescent cream, Nobody’s Child’s Gaia dress is a slinky pick. A fluid satin cut and off-the-shoulder detailing create a highly romantic look.
Buy now £110.00, Nobody’s Child
Whistles Taffeta Silk Volume Top and Skirt
Opt for a dash of Fifties flair with Whistles’ taffeta two-piece. The powder blue set comprises a corset-style top and a voluminous skirt. The skirt costs £249, while the top comes in at £199.
Buy now £249.00, Whistles
Hutch Bow Halter Slim Mini Dress
Ooze elegance in an Eighties-inspired mini dress. This pastel-hued garment comes complete with a sweet halterneck and petite bow detailing. Pair with a delicate evening bag and kitten heels.
Buy now £165.00, Anthropologie
Monsoon Bliss one-shoulder dress
Make a statement in a one-shoulder taffeta gown complete with bow detailing.
Monsoon’s Bliss dress is reminiscent of Eighties prom styles with an undeniably elegant twist. A jewel-toned hue and slightly shortened hemline offer a playful touch to wedding dress codes.
Buy now £87.50, Monsoon
Topshop Green Sequin Bandeau Stripe Maxi Dress
Glimmer in green with a helping hand from Topshop. The brand's eye-catching, striped maxi number guarantees you'll shine under the disco lights.
Buy now £65.00, ASOS
Omnes Iris Maxi Dress
Yellow is a highly underrated tone. A soft lemon yellow looks expensive, no matter the brand. Pair yours with gold heels and turn out a true Kate Hudson in How To Lose A Guy in 10 Days moment in Omnes’ sustainably crafted Iris dress.
Buy now £79.00, Omnes
H&M Rhinestone-Embellished Satin Dress
Look, and more importantly, feel pretty in pale pink. This affordable midi dress features a lustrous blossom-toned finish and is dripping with glittering rhinestone crystals.
Buy now £29.99, H&M
Warehouse Petite Satin Halter Neck Backless Slip Dress
Do you have formal occasions on the horizon? Wedding guest dressing and prom made easy, this lime green halter neck dress is something out of the ordinary colour palette-wise, yet elegant and stylish. Also available in white, red, navy and black if you’re hoping for a more pared-back hue.
Buy now £97.30, Warehouse
Neve Red Satin Halter Dress
A red gown will stand the test of time - and Kitri’s crimson Neve number is in the sale right now! Turn out a romantic look for your big prom night in a crossover halterneck to enchant.
Buy now £50.00, Kitri
Rixo Elma Sequin Halter Gown
Dazzle on the dancefloor wearing Rixo’s Elma Gown. The mint green number features a sleek halterneck and delicate sequin detail which culminate in a mermaid-esque piece to cherish.
Buy now £575.00, Rixo
Whistles Rita Suit
Whistles’ Rita Suit is the perfect prom look for those who favour tailoring. The mint hue taps into the pastel prom aesthetic, while a masculine cut promises comfort to the highest degree.
Blazer £159, Waistcoat £109 and Trousers £119.
Buy now £387.00, Whistles
Atsu Bow Maxi Dress
Go big or go home with Atsu’s operatic gown which boasts a strapless neckline, large bow detailing, a ruffled skirt and the richest shade of cerise.
Buy now £198.00, Anthropologie
Reiss Malia Cowl Neck Jumpsuit
Dresses don’t necessarily appeal to all on prom night. Reiss’s jewel-toned Malia Jumpsuit is a comfortable, classy piece to hit the dancefloor in.
Buy now £98.00, Reiss
Ghost Florence Halter Neck Satin Dress
Ghost’s Florence dress is a sophisticated piece to roll out time and again. Perfect for all occasions from prom to black tie galas, operas and balls, the backless garment is an instant sartorial success.
Buy now £156.00, Ghost
