The 15 Best Sites to Buy Elegant Prom Dresses Online

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They are long gone the days when your mom dragged you to department stores to try on an endless conga line of dance suits (I had that experience at a Macy's too). But if you want to avoid awkwardly cramped dressing rooms, rummaging through shelves or running between multiple stores, you've come to the right place.

Everyone wants to bring their A-game to prom night and step out in style, but if you're wondering which are the best prom dress sites to shop online, we've got you covered. Prom night is the culmination of your entire high school career, a victory lap that will allow you to strut your stuff and relax before moving on to the next phase of your life. But before you hit the dance floor, you've got a lot of planning to go through first, from booking a limo, to finding a date, and yes, choosing that deceptively perfect prom dress.

When shopping for prom dresses online, you'll want a site with plenty of options that offer affordable, trendy pieces that will help you stand out. For the 2024 season, we're seeing plenty of dresses that go big on tulle, flash sequins and metallics, and alternate between grunge-y gothic and Barbiecore pink.

We've rounded up the best online retailers where you can find countless unique prom dresses. Our top picks were chosen based on offering a range of budgets (like Amazon), plus size (like ASOS and Lulus), as well as generally reliable, highly rated non-prom dress options (Nordstrom and Free People) . So kick up your heels (or your Converse!) and add them to cart so you're ready for the big night.

Our top picks:

BEST OVERALL: ASOS

FASTER SHIPPING: Amazon

BEST AVAILABLE: Flowers

BEST LUXURY: Rental of the runway

THE MOST UNIQUE CHOICES: Free people

1. ASOS

If you're looking for the hottest trends and the most unique styles for your prom look, ASOS should be your go-to. You'll definitely stand out with non-traditional pieces like the metallic sparkle in this Twenties-style flapper dress, as well buy-online-1234915820%252F&p=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rollingstone.com%2Fproduct-recommendations%2Flifestyle%2Fbest-prom-dress-websites-buy-online-1234915820%2F&ref=pmcTrackonomicsReferrer&event_type=click” rel=”nofollow” target=”_blank”>medium fashion for those looking for a little more coverage. Not only is there plenty of choice, the ASOS website includes quite a few sizes and shows dresses on different body types so you can figure out what would look best on you (not to mention free returns up to 14 days after receiving your order). No more digging through a rack to find a flattering design!

2. Amazon

If you're already shopping for accessories like dangle earrings (or maybe even a mini purse freshener) on Amazon, why not just go one step further and pick out your dress? Yes, the everything store really does everything when it comes to prom dress, from fluffy ball gowns, to elegant cocktail dresses, in almost every style, size and color you can think of. Especially if it's creeping up to prom night and you still have nothing to wear, the two-day mission with Prime is a lifesaver.

That said, check the description to make sure the fit is accurate, or choose a dress with good ratings and reviews like this popular long satin neckline. Or use Prime Try Before You buy, where you can choose up to six featured styles and try them on for seven days and only pay for what you keep (with free returns).

3. Free people

Free People has all the whimsical, boho-chic collections of dresses that will easily become part of your wardrobe long after prom night. Think flow-y florals, lots of lace, and tons of maxi — we're drooling over the flirty, feminine vibes especially of the For Love & Lemons designs. Their variety leans toward straight sizes, but the quality of the material and their unique silhouettes (like this Wednesday dress) make them a good choice in our book.

4. Nordstrom

Nordstrom is clutch when it comes to basic, chic staples, like this One-Shoulder Georgette Gown by Adrianna Papell. They have a dedicated “Prom Dresses” section, but because they're home to so many different designers and collections, you can always count on them to find something prom-worthy. From elegant mini dresses to floor-length dresses, whatever catches your eye can be ordered with free shipping and free returns if you decide to go in a different direction for your big night. Not to mention it's also a one-stop shop for those high heels (that you'll be wearing in the middle of the night) and accessories too!

5. Flower

Find your dream prom look on a budget with Lulus dress options that never sacrifice style for savings. You can shop everything from elegant satins to sparkling prom dresses, as well as show-stopping dungarees. Even this romantic, woven floral number is under $100, along with probably any other options you're looking for.

6. Anthropology

Anthropologie's collection of formal prom dresses are fit to flatter on and off the dance floor. What we love: they offer an equal selection of bold, colorful party-style dresses as well as more subdued satin and cocktail dresses that are perfect for any 'dressy' occasion. You don't need an out-of-this-world print to stand out, and options like this puff sleeve pleated column midi dress are classy and fun.

7. Rent the Runway

It's understandable that you might not want to spend your money on a giant, frilly ball that you might never wear again. A more viable route to getting the perfect prom dress could be as simple as renting — specifically Rent the Runway. Not only are there luxurious one-time rental options in designer dresses, but the site also offers a variety of subscription plans: four items a month for $69, eight items for $99, or 16 items for $169.

8. Boohoo

With so many options to choose from, boohoo has the most streamlined and detailed prom dress online shopping site. From sleek silhouettes to bodycon mini fits, you're sure to find something to suit your unique taste with search options based on color, length, and even material. Boohoo also offers a great selection of Plus and Curve designs, like this sweet and sparkly off the shoulder dress, and even has “5'7 And Over” dresses for all the tall girls out there.

9. Macy's

Sometimes you just have to go with the OG – when it comes to department store variety (and department store agreements), Macy's can't beat. You can usually buy a lot of formal wear and they have a huge selection of gorgeous prom dresses in almost every color, in a wide range of sizes. Not to mention, unlike other retailers, they have a fairly robust Juniors section, so you know your dress will be tailored and won't make you look decades beyond your years.

10. MacDougall

If you've got some coin to flip on prom night, we suggest browsing a few pages on Mac Douggal to find your perfect fit. They specialize in luxe, glamorous clothing, and while their evening dresses and cocktail gowns are the perfect extra for prom, you can also find slightly more affordable jumpsuits and party wear under $200 here too, if you look.

11. ModCloth

Want something a little more retro? ModCloth fits your aesthetic. Shop by decade going all the way back to the 40s and get super specific with categories like Pocket Dresses. Even if you're not totally into the “mod” style, there are plenty of trendy options available that are unique enough that no one else will be wearing them at the prom, we guarantee. Even twists on classic silhouettes, like the romantic balloon sleeves on this maxi dress, are sure to stand out.

12. Revolve

If you have scanned through the #prom2024 By tagging on TikTok or putting together an inspo board, you already know your favorite influencers probably shop at Revolve. The site is full of this year's trendiest styles, including lace, floral prints and satin dresses with high slits that would look stunning as you stepped out of the limo with your prom crew.

13. Bloomingdale's

With dresses long and short, edgy and sophisticated, Bloomingdale's collection of designer prom dresses is extensive to say the least. They tend to be on the pricier side, but these are statement pieces that will keep you at college formals and friends' weddings for years to come. The price per wear makes sense here, especially when they have a lot of non-sequined pieces that don't look “stock”.

14. PrettyLittleThing

Shhh, you didn't hear it from us, but PrettyLittleThing actually has some of the most unique pieces we've seen that won't break the bank. This retailer is full of hidden gems when shopping for trends and can be a great option if you're looking for everything from statement dresses to beaded bodycon dresses at a cheaper price. Plus, you'll save even more on exclusive offers when you download their app.

15. Nasty Gal

While we know Nasty Gal is probably not your thing first option when it comes to buying a prom dress online, don't count it out just yet. If you're looking for something truly unique with fire prints and formal wear that's anything but sultry, this is where you should start adding to the cart. The site has a good section of exclusive prom dresses that are instant exhibits, like this metallic leopard print maxi. You can find more traditional options, but we encourage you to go crazy here. You will only dance once!

Do you pride yourself on shopping only the best in fashion? U.S. too. We are connoisseurs dedicated to bringing you the best clothing, shoes and accessories. If you're looking for more prom dresses or want our editor's picks, check out our guide to the most unique prom dresses for 2024. Shop like Rolling rock editor and see more of our suggestions here.