The 15 Best Websites to Buy Stylish Prom Dresses Online (2024)

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Long gone are the days of your mom dragging you around to department stores to try on a never-ending conga line of prom ‘fits (I, too, had that experience in a Macy’s). But if you want to avoid the awkwardly cramped dressing rooms, the searching through the racks, or running between multiple stores, you’ve come to the right place.

Everyone wants to bring their A-game topromnight and step out in style, but if you’re wondering what the best prom dress websites to shop online are, we’ve got you covered. Prom night is the culmination of your entire high school career, a fashion-forward victory lap that allows you to strut your stuff and let loose before you move on to the next phase of your life. But before you hit the dance floor, there’s a lot of planning to get through first, from booking a limo, to finding a date, and yes, picking that illusive perfect prom dress.

When you’re shopping for prom dresses online, you’ll want a website with plenty of options that offer affordable, on-trend pieces that’ll help you stand out. For the 2024 season, we’re seeing a lot of dresses that go big on tulle, flash bright with sequins and metallics, and go 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 (such as Amazon), inclusive sizing (like ASOS and Lulus), as well as generally trustworthy, highly-rated non-prom-specific dress choices (Nordstrom and Free People). So kick up your heels (or your Converse!) and add to cart so you’re ready for the big night.

Our Top Picks:

BEST OVERALL: ASOS

FASTEST SHIPPING: Amazon

BEST AFFORDABLE: Lulus

BEST LUXE: Rent the Runway

MOST UNIQUE PICKS: Free People

1. ASOS

If you’re looking for the hottest trends and the most unique styles for your prom look, ASOS has to be your pick. You’re sure to stand out with non-traditional pieces like the metallic shine on this Twenties-style flapper dress, as well as modest fashion for those looking for a little more coverage. Not only are there plenty of options, ASOS’s site is quite size-inclusive, and displays dresses on different bodies so you can get the full sense of what would look best on you (not to mention free returns for up to 14 days after you receive your order). No more having to dig 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 tube of purse deodorant) on Amazon, why not just go one step forward and pick your dress out? Yes, the everything store really does have everything when it comes to prom dress, from fluffy ball gowns, to sleek co*cktail dresses, in practically every style, size, and color you can think of. Especially if it’s creeping up to prom night and you’ve still got nothing to wear, two-day shipping with Prime is a life-saver.

That being said, check the description to make sure the fit is accurate, or that you’re picking a well-rated and reviewed dress like this popular long, satin v-neck. Or use Prime Try Before You Buy, where you can choose up to six select styles and try them out 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 transition into becoming a part of your wardrobe long after prom night. Think flow-y florals, lots of lace, and tons of maxis — we’re a sucker for the flirty, femme vibes of designs in particular. Their variety leans towards straight sizes, but their material quality and unique silhouettes (like this Wednesday-esque dress) make them a good pick in our book.

4. Nordstrom

Nordstrom is clutch when it comes to basic, stylish staples like this One-Shoulder Georgette Gown from Adrianna Papell. They have a dedicated “Prom Dresses” section, but because they host so many different designers and collections, you can always count on them to find something prom-worthy. From chic mini dresses, to floor-length gowns, 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 they’re also a one-stop shop to pick up those high heels (that you’ll kick off halfway through the night) and accessories too!

5. Lulus

Find your dream prom look on a budget withLulus dress options that never sacrifice style for savings. You can shop everything from sleek satin to sparklingprom dresses,as well as show-stopping jumpsuits. Even this romantic, woven floral number is under $100, along with likely whatever other options you’re searching for.

6. Anthropolgie

Anthropologie’s collection of formal prom dresses are fit to flatter on and off the dance floor. What we like: they offer an equal selection of bold, colorful party-style dresses, as well as more subdued satin and co*cktail dresses that are perfect for any “dressier” occasion. You don’t need an out-of-this-world print to stand out, and picks like this Off-Shoulder Puff-Sleeve Pleated Midi Column Dress are classy and fun.

7. Rent the Runway

It’s understandable that you might not want to spend your money on a giant, ruffly ball gown that you may never wear again. A more sustainable route to acquiring your perfect prom dress could be as simple as renting — specifically, Rent the Runway. Not only are there luxe one-time rental options on 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 site for prom dress shopping online. From graceful silhouettes to mini bodycon fits, you’re sure to find something that suits your unique taste with search options based on color, length, and even material. Boohoo also offers a wide variety of Plus and Curve designs, like this sweet and sparkling off the shoulder dress, and even has “5’7 And Over” dresses for all the tall girlies out there.

9. Macy’s

Sometimes you just have to go with the OG – when it comes to department store variety (and department store deals), Macy’s can’t be beat. You can usually get a good deal on formalwear, and they have a huge variety of gorgeous prom dresses in nearly every color, in a wide range of sizes. Not to mention, unlike other retailers, they have a pretty robust Juniors section, so you know your dress will be tailored to you and won’t make you look decades beyond your years.

10. Mac Douggal

If you’ve got some coin to drop on prom night, we suggest you scroll through a few pages on Mac Douggal to find your perfect fit. They specialize in opulent, glamorous ‘fits, and while their evening dresses and co*cktail gowns are just the perfect amount of extra for prom, you can also find slightly more affordable jumpsuits and party outfits for under $200 on here too, if you look.

11. ModCloth

Want something a little bit more retro? ModCloth has a fit for your aesthetic. Shop by decade going back to the Forties, and even get super specific with categories like “Dresses With Pockets”. Even if you’re not completely into the “mod” style, there are plenty of trendy options available that are unique enough that nobody else will have them at prom, we guarantee. Even upgrades to classic silhouettes, like the romantic balloon sleeves on this maxi dress, are sure to stand out.

12. Revolve

If you’ve been swiping through the #prom2024 tag on TikTok or putting together an inspo board, you already know your favorite influencers probably shop at Revolve. The site is chock full of the trendiest styles this year, like lace, floral prints and satin dresses with high slits that would look stunning as you step out of that limo with your prom crew.

13. Bloomingdale’s

With dresses long and short, edgy and sophisticated, Bloomingdale’s collection of designerprom dressesis extensive to say the least. They tend to be on the pricier side, but these are statement pieces that will last you through college formals and friends’ weddings for years to come. The price per wear just makes sense here, especially when they have plenty of non-sequined, non-“prom”-looking pieces.

14. PrettyLittleThing

Shh, 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 you shop by trends, and can be a great option if you’re looking for everything from statement gowns to beaded bodycon dresses for less. Plus, you’ll save even more on exclusive offers when you download their app.

15. Nasty Gal

While we know Nasty Gal probably isn’t your first choice 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 formalwear that’s anything but stuffy, this is where you should start adding to cart. The site has a good section of exclusive prom dresses that are instant show-stoppers, like this metallic leopard print maxi. You can find more traditional options, but we encourage you to go wild here. You only prom once!

Pride yourself on shopping only the best selections when it comes tofashion? Us too. We are tastemakers dedicated to bringing you the finest in 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 aRolling Stoneeditorand see more of our recommendations here.