20 Cheapest Prom Dresses That Look Like a Million Bucks on the Dance Floor—Here's Where to Shop
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Prom is a special milestone for pretty much every teen. Whether you’re doing it big or keeping it small with a group of close friends, it’s a night to remember. An occasion this memorable means one thing: You need a show-stopping dress. Unfortunately, dresses that make the biggest statements come with an even bigger price tag. That’s why we did the work for you and rounded up the cheapest (and best) prom dresses you can snag before the big day.
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Now, you don’t have to rely on big department stores, bridal shops, and specialty gown designers for the perfect prom dress. Instead, consider retailers like Nordstrom Rack, Lulus, Dillard’s, and Amazon. Rest assured, a cheaper option doesn’t mean compromising on quality or style. We’re here to put that myth to rest — each option looks just as good (and better) than its $500 counterparts.
Ready to shop? Scroll ahead to see our list off the 20 best dresses. Happy prom!
Top 10 Best, Cheapest Prom Dresses at a Glance
Best Overall: Love By Design Daphne Sequin Top V-Plunge Maxi Dress, $60, was $128
Most Affordable Designer Prom Dress: L’Agence Selena One-Shoulder Dress, $130, was $375
Best Dress At Amazon: Sonlay Sequin Evening Dress, $75
Best One Shoulder Prom Dress: Memoriesea One Shoulder Satin Dress, $48
Best Tulle Prom Dress: Lulus Undeniably Iconic Teal Blue Strapless Dress, $98
Best Gold Prom Dress: Lulus Shine Language Rose Gold Sequin Mermaid Maxi Dress, $88
Best Red Prom Dress: B. Darlin V-Neck Halter Satin Slim Gown, $90, was $129
Best Ball Gown Prom Dress: B. Darlin Black Illusion Embroidered Ball Gown, $139, was $199
Most Affordable Plus Size Prom Dress: BCX Trendy Plus Size Ruched Satin Gown, $53, was $89
Best Romantic Prom Dress: The City Studios Glitter Hologram Tulle Bustier Gown, $101, was $169
Nordstrom Rack
BEST OVERALL
Love By Design Daphne Sequin Top V-Plunge Maxi Dress
$60 $128 53% off
It’s no secret that Nordstrom Rack is a great source for finding designer items that are majorly discounted — prom dresses included. If you’re looking for an affordable dress with a classic silhouette, take a look at this option from Love By Design. The dress has a long skirt that’s full of movement. It also boasts a stunning V-neckline decorated with sequins to sparkle the night away.
Sizes available: XS (0-2), S (4-6), M (8-10), L (12-14), XL (16-18)
Colorways: 5
Material: 95% polyester, 5% spandex
Return policy: Returnable within 40 days
Shipping: Yes, excludes Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico
Pros:
Multiple colors
Sleeveless
Cons:
Hand Wash only
MOST AFFORDABLE DESIGNER PROM DRESS
L'Agence Selena One-Shoulder Dress
$130 $375 65% off
The L’Agence Selena One-Shoulder Dress will have all eyes on you on the dance floor. It has a silky texture that drapes down the entire dress, but the start of the show is the following one-shoulder sleeve. The gorgeous designer dress usually costs $375, but you can snag it for just $130 right now, but hurry! Sizes are selling fast.
Sizes available: XXS (0), XS (2), S (4-6), M (8-10), L (12), XL (14), XXL (16)
Colorways: 1
Material: 55% rayon, 45% viscose
Return policy: Returnable within 40 days
Shipping: Yes, excludes Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico
Pros:
Designer dress for under $150
Easy to wear and style
Cons:
Sizes are selling fast
Amazon
BEST PROM DRESS ON AMAZON
Sonlay Sequin Evening Dress
$75
Let’s be honest. It’s scary to order a prom dress online due to all the factors that can go wrong, leaving no time to fix errors. But shoppers confirm that this dress is actually “perfect,” and the measurements provided by the brand are accurate. Not only does this pick fit true to size, but it also has a formal evening wear design. It’s covered in sequins, has a lace-up back, and has a mermaid-like train.
“We scrambled last minute for a prom dress, and this dress exceeded all expectations,” one five-star reviewer said. “Measurements they provide are spot on. The dress is longer for my 5’7 daughter and is just overall beautiful.”
Sizes available: 0-24
Colorways: 43
Material: Polyester
Return policy: Returnable
Shipping: 3-7 Days by Express and 15-35 Days by USPS
Pros:
More than 40 colors and designs
Shoppers confirm that measurements are accurate
Cons:
Longer shipping times
BEST ONE SHOULDER PROM DRESS
Memoriesea One Shoulder Satin Dress
$48
One shoulder gowns are always in style, and this one is no exception. The prom dress has a formal fitting silhouette but gives plenty of stretch, so you’re comfortable dancing the night away. It also boasts a daring side slit that stops right at the hip. Did we mention it’s only $48?
Sizes available: S-XL
Colorways: 10
Material: 100% polyester
Return policy: Returns available on some sizes and colors
Shipping: Within 3-5 business days
Pros:
Flattering on all body types
Slims waist
Cons:
Material is not soft
Lulus
BEST TULLE PROM DRESS
Lulus Undeniably Iconic Teal Blue Strapless Dress
$98
Want to stand out this prom season? Opt for a bright teal color instead of traditional blacks, reds, and pinks. Lulus’ Undeniably Iconic Teal Blue Strapless Dress is packed with character from it’s vibrant blue hue to the full skirt overlayed with tulle — it’s sure to captivate you. There is also a fanned bodice for an extra stunning detail.
Sizes available: XS-XL
Colorways: 1
Material: 100% polyester
Return policy: Only accepted if item is damaged
Shipping: Shipped after 1-2 day processing time
Pros:
Unique bodice
Flowy
Cons:
No returns accepted if too small or large
BEST GOLD PROM DRESS
Lulus Shine Language Rose Gold Sequin Mermaid Maxi Dress
$88
This one shoulder satin dress is “perfect” per Lulus shoppers. The prom dress boasts a fully lined design with an empire waist. It also includes rose gold sequins, adjustable spaghetti straps, a V-neckline, and a princess-seamed bodice.
Sizes available: XXS-XL
Colorways: 4
Material: 100% polyester
Return policy: Only accepted if item is damaged
Shipping: Shipped after 1-2 day processing time
Pros:
Fully lined
Form fitting
Cons:
Shoppers report straps break easily
Belk
BEST RED PROM DRESS
B. Darlin V-Neck Halter Satin Slim Gown
$90 $129 30% off
B. Darlin’s V-Neck Halter Satin Slim Gown is a fiery play on the red trend we’re seeing everywhere this year. It’s crafted with a floor-sweeping design, V-neck, and halter tie that rests in a smoke bow at the back of the dress.
Sizes available: 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8, 9-10, 11-12
Colorways: 1
Material: Satin, polyester, spandex
Return policy: Available in-store and online (No refunds after 45 days)
Shipping: Most items arrive n 3-15 calendar days
Pros:
Multiple sizes
Pretty halter bow
Cons:
More expensive than other picks
BEST BALL GOWN PROM DRESS
B. Darlin Black Illusion Embroidered Ball Gown
$139 $199 30% off
Even though prom styles are slightly changing, ball gowns will always be a classic option. This one at Belk features exquisite embroidery and a sweetheart neck. The back is slightly open with lace ties.
Sizes available: 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8, 9-10, 11-12
Colorways: 1
Material: Polyester
Return policy: Available in-store and online (No refunds after 45 days)
Shipping: Most items arrive in 3-15 calendar days
Pros:
Comfortable fit
Embroidered design
Cons:
Dry clean only
Macy’s
MOST AFFORDABLE PLUS SIZE PROM DRESS
BCX Trendy Plus Size Ruched Satin Gown
$53 $89 40% off
As its name suggests, this affordable prom dress is the most captivating and charming. It’s also fitted through the chest, waist, and hips for a contemporary and trendy look.
Sizes available: 14 W, 16 W, 18 W, 20 W, 22 W
Colorways: 1
Material: Polyester, spandex
Return policy: Returns accepted 30 days of purchase
Shipping: Polyester, spandex
Pros:
Machine washable
Contemporary design
Cons:
Fitted
BEST ROMANTIC PROM DRESS
City Studios Glitter Hologram Tulle Bustier Gown
$101 $169 40% off
The City Studios Glitter Hologram Tulle Bustier Gown is one of the best romantic prom dresses on our list. Featuring a bustier-style ruched bodice, ruffle trim at the sweetheart neckline, and glitter hologram tulle fabric, there’s nothing you won’t love about this prom pick.
Sizes available: 0-16
Colorways: 1
Material: Polyester
Return policy: Returns accepted 30 days of purchase
Shipping: Same day shipping for orders placed by noon (must be over $25)
Pros:
Multiple textures to the dress
Adjustable spaghetti straps
Cons:
Embellishments may shed during wear
Windsor
Noemi Formal Sequin A-Line Dress
$110
Windsor offers a wide variety of affordable prom dresses this year, with most starting as low as $89 and ranging up to $200. If you’re looking to stick to a budget, we’ve found the best dress for you. The Noemi Formal Sequin A-Line Dress, priced at a wallet-friendly price, is available in three stunning colors. Among them, the pink variant (above) is sure to captivate your attention. This sleeveless dress features a flattering A-line design, a convenient back zipper and hook-eye closure, and a dazzling sequin-scroll pattern. Shoppers particularly appreciate its bra-friendly design.
Sizes available: XS-XL
Colorways: 3
Material: 97% Polyester, 3% spandex
Return policy: Must be returned within 30 days from the original purchase ship date
Shipping: Economy Shipping (5-7 business days), Standard Shipping (3-4 business days), Express Shipping (1-2 business days)
Pros:
Sweeping skirt
Stretchy knit lining
Cons:
Shoppers recommend sizing up
Clarissa V-Neck Rose Floral A-Line Formal Gown
$90
Floral prints are a nice way to stand out during the prom season. The classic print gives LoveShackFancy vibes, but if you’re not spending an exuberant amount of money on your gown, try this pick. It includes an aa plunging V-neck, front slit, and adjustable spaghetti straps you can customize. Per the brand, wearing a sticky bra or pasties is recommended.
Sizes available: XS-XL
Colorways: 2
Material: 100% polyester
Return policy: Must be returned within 30 days from the original purchase ship date
Shipping: Economy shipping (5-7 business days), standard shipping (3-4 business days), express shipping (1-2 business days)
Pros:
Lightweight fabric
Strappy back
Cons:
Hand wash only
Abercrombie & Fitch
The A&F Giselle Pleated One-Shoulder Maxi Dress
$150
Abercrombie’s wedding shop isn’t just for brides and wedding guests; it’s actually great for sourcing prom dresses. And if you love minimalist styles, you’re going to want to snag a dress as soon as possible before these bestsellers are gone. We can’t get over this beautiful pleated number. From the pure white hue to the draping fabric, this dress is gorgeous.
Sizes available: XXS-XL (Petite, regular, and small)
Colorways: 6
Material: 100% polyester
Return policy: Standard, two day, next day, same day available
Shipping: Returns must be made within 30 days for refunds
Pros:
Comfortable
Easy to style
Cons:
Zipper might get caught
A&F Draped Twist-Front Maxi Dress
$130
If you’re uneasy about purchasing a prom dress online, numerous reviewers confirm that the A&F Draped Twist-Front Maxi Dress fits true to size! Aside from the seamless fit, this dress has chic characteristics — a silk-like fabric blend, stylish thigh slit, and twist-front detail.
Sizes available: XXS-XL (Petite, regular, and small)
Colorways: 3
Material: 94% polyester, 6% elastane
Return policy: Standard, two day, next day, same day available
Shipping: Returns must be made within 30 days for refunds
Pros:
Regular, tall, petite sizing available
Fits true to size
Cons:
Over $100
Bloomingdale’s
Aqua Ruched Top Midi Dress
$94 $118 20% off
This emerald green dress is a Bloomingdale’s exclusive, which means you won’t find it anywhere else! The dress is crafted with a sweetheart neck, ruffle details, and a zipper back closure. It’s also fully lined for comfort. Plus, it’s marked down to only $95.
Sizes available: XS-XL
Colorways: 2
Material: 100% polyester
Return policy: Returns accepted for refund up to 90 days after purchase
Shipping: 1-5 business days after order is processed
Pros:
Exclusive Bloomingdale’s item
Suitable for other occasions
Cons:
Runs small
Aqua One Shoulder Cutout Waist Gown
$99 $248 60% off
If you want to look elegant for prom, opt for a unique dress that is rare in a sea of others. This prom gown from Bloomingdale’s is another exclusive to the department store. There’s is a one-shoulder design, a thigh slit, and an impeccable silhouette. But what really stands out is the asymmetric mesh-lined cutout waist that’s detailed with a simple trim.
Sizes available: 0-14
Colorways: 1
Material: 95% polyester, 5% spandex
Return policy: Returns accepted for refund up to 90 days after purchase
Shipping: 1-5 business days after order is processed
Pros:
Not tight around the waist cut outs
Minimal rhinestones
Cons:
Sizes are selling quickly
Dillards
B. Darlin Puff Sleeve Two Piece Set
$149
A two-piece set for prom? Yes, please! This rouge one will have you ready to dance the night away. The skirt and top both have stretch taffeta fabrication, so you can move without feeling too restricted. Plus, they give them a shiny, sleek appearance. And those puff sleeves are to die for, need we say more?
Sizes available: 0-15
Colorways: 1
Material: Polyester, nylon, spandex
Return policy: Accepted within 30 days of purchase
Shipping: Ships 24-48 hours after order is placed
Pros:
Offers plenty of stretch
Tie bow at back
Cons:
Might run larger
Morgan & Co. Sleeveless Long Brocade Box Pleat Ball Gown
$169
Dillards is a leader in prom dress offerings, so it makes sense that this stunner would be in stock there. If you want to turn on the Southern charm, this dress is for you. The sleeveless long ball gown is wrapped in an all-over brocade print that’s paired with dainty box pleats. The back of the dress showcases an open back with cutouts.
Sizes available: 0-15
Colorways: 1
Material: Polyester, metallic, spandex
Return policy: Accepted within 30 days of purchase
Shipping: Ships 24-48 hours after order is placed
Pros:
Allover print
Full skirt
Cons:
No other colorways
Prom Girl
Prom Girl Sheer-Bodice Long Prom Dress with Rhinestones
$199
Prom Girl’s Sheer-Bodice Long Prom Dress is one of the more expensive options on our list, but it’s worth every penny. The show-stopping dress has a sheer corset-style waist and a rhinestone-trimmed bodice for extra shine. The skirt has a wrap design around the waist but drapes down to the floor to create a small train. Shoppers report that the dress is even more impressive in person.
Sizes available: 4-14
Colorways: 3
Material: 100% polyester
Return policy: Accepted within 10 days from the date your package is marked as delivered
Shipping: Items ship within 1-3 business days
Pros:
Colors are exactly as pictured when it arrives
Prom Girl offers price match
Cons:
Fabric is more sheer than shoppers expected
Prom Girl Tight Long Sweetheart Strapless Formal Dress
$178
Despite its lack of embellishments, this strapless dress is far from ordinary. It makes a unique statement with its elegant sweep across the floor, sweetheart neckline, and side ruching that flatters the waist and hips. The back of the dress is a true standout, with bands that lace up over a diamond-shaped cut-out detail, a design element that is sure to pique your interest, as the brand describes.
Sizes available: 00-16
Colorways: 6
Material: 100% polyester
Return policy: Accepted within 10 days from the date your package is marked as delivered
Shipping: Items ship within 1-3 business days
Pros:
Under $200
Reviewers love the strappy back of the dress
Cons:
Long for those who are shorter
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