Read our Short Guide to Prom Dress Shopping and Avoid Stress and Drama when Prom Dress Shopping
The time has come for you to go on a much anticipated prom shopping trip! Prom shopping is an exciting time and is not to be dreaded or 
stressful. We have compiled some helpful tips from our favorite prom customers that will help you prepare for your shopping trip.
Have an idea of the look that you are going for. This requires you to do some research prior to heading out, and will help you in your quest for the perfect dress. Print out pictures or create a specific Pinterest board with your dream dresses. This will help your sales associate pull those looks for you, as well find similar styles you may not have considered. Do not worry if you are unsure of what you are looking for. Associates are extremely skilled and will be able to help you find styles that will flatter your body type and compliment your personality.
Know what you are able to spend. Do not set yourself up for disaster. Be realistic and truthful with yourself when deciding on a prom dress budget. No matter your budget, there are thousands of beautiful dresses out there that fit into every price range. If you are expecting a family member to pay for a dress, make sure to discuss a budget with the person who is paying before entering a store.
Remember that size does not always matter! Try not to get overwhelmed or upset if you are jumping around between different sizes. Keep in mind that each Designer cuts their dresses off of a different size chart. These size charts can be different from the sizes of your regular clothes. If you wear a size 8 in jeans you may wear a size 10 or 12 in a dress, depending on the style and fabric. Remember that size is just a number. Do not let it determine your mood for your shopping trip.
Personal care the day of dress shopping is extremely important. If you are fresh faced and wearing mascara or lip-gloss chances are you will have a better shopping trip than someone who rolled out of bed! You want to feel as confident as possible when trying on dresses. Be sure to eat a light meal ahead of time and hydrate. Trying on dresses can be time consuming and exhausting. Save yourself from fatigue and fuel yourself ahead of time in order to maximize your energy while trying on dresses.
Prepare to be open minded. Many times prom shoppers may have an exact dress in mind and they are uninterested in trying on other styles. We recommend trying a variety of styles on, even if they aren’t what you had pictured. An experienced sales associate will be able to pull dresses for you based on your personality that you may not have thought of trying before. Keep in mind that dresses you have researched online may look very different in person. Do not be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone when shopping. You may even surprise yourself with the choices you will make.
Choose your entourage wisely when prom dress shopping. Too many people may lead to too many opinions and create a tired and stressed out you. We recommend you bring one or two close friends or family members. Invite people that you know will support your decisions while also offering positive feedback about each look that you try on.
Always remember to be patient and have fun when your shopping for a dress. This should be a fun and exciting experience, so enjoy yourself and good luck shopping!