BELLE OF THE BALL
Even though prom season is a ways away, these unique dresses are sure to make a statement and show off your personality
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.
Forget the elaborate promposals and stretch limo rentals —everyone knows that prom is really about picking out the dress. Whether you spring for something a little grungier (your author personally wanted to wear a leather jacket over a leather gown), or wear a sweeping, romantic ballgown straight out of Taylor Swift’s “Love Story” music video, we’re pretty confident that everyone wants to be at their fashion-forward best on prom night. After all, when’s the next time you’re going to get all dolled up and go full-glam? Your wedding?
Even though prom season might be a ways away, if you’re looking for the best unique prom dress that’s guaranteed to help you stand out, we suggest blocking out a little extra time for your search. There might not be a Say Yes to the (Prom) Dress, but consider us your personal Randy Fenoli to guide you on your search. First, you might want to create a Pinterest mood board or list of styles you like from your favorite influencers, TikTok, IG, etc. What kinds of special details do you want out of your dress: a mini dress or floor length hemline? A unique color combo or something more neutral? Traditional ballgown silhouette or a co*cktail dress?
The choice is yours, but ultimately you want something that not only feels unique, but fits your personality and feels like you (which might even mean choosing a suit over a dress, or a blazer and skirt combo, etc). To help you find the best prom dress for you, we’ve rounded up trending dresses that are sure to impress, from gothic to glittery, 80s-inspired to vintage sweetheart vibes, and all available to buy online now. Make Prom 2024 a night to remember!
Top Prom Dress Trends for 2024
The new year is approaching, and we’ve scoped out the prom dress trends that will dominate the scene in 2024. Think Euphoria-esque, bold colors, sparkle and shine, and a whole lot of volume.
Metallic and High Shine
1. Camren Formal Sequin Strappy Mermaid Dress
This dress is truly a serve, with iridescent sequins that are sure to pop in every awkward stairway photo or lit up on the dance floor. This standout floor-length mermaid gown has bungee spaghetti straps that shape the strappy back design, and can be paired with a metallic silver heel or long, dangling earrings to boost that wow factor.
2. Anthropolgie L’IDÉE Sirene Puff-Sleeve Pleated Midi Column Dress
You don’t need an out-of-this world print or a wild color combo to stand out, just a sleek metallic aesthetic or a unique texture like this Puff Sleeve Midi Dress. The off-the-shoulder style is defined by those gorgeous puff sleeves, and the allover pleating will create super fluid movement that’ll really come alive when you’re dancing or twirling.
3. Ohvera Women’s Sequined Prom Dress
This chic dress is meant to make you shine, decorated with colorful sequins that’ll reflect off of any disco ball on the floor. The long maxi dress with a slit is the perfect alternative to traditional, floor-length prom dresses, which you can accessorize with a high, strappy heel.
4. Collective the Label Exclusive One Shoulder Metallic Mini Dress
Your prom’s disco ball won’t compare to the metallic shine on this one shoulder mini dress. The asymmetrical shoulder cut is giving us big “Olivia Rodrigo in an Eighties teen drama film” vibes. These would pair nicely with some platforms heels, or even Dr. Martens for a grungy-sweet look.
5. Fanciest V Neck Long Sleeve Prom Dresses
When prom dress shopping, remember that bling is everything. Even if you don’t want a dress entirely made of sequins (we get it), this v-neck long sleeve dress is the answer, giving you silky and sparkly all at the same time. The long sleeves are perfect for chillier prom nights, but the satin skirt is light and oh-so-smooth (bonus! it also comes with pockets).
Satin and Slits
6. Miss Circle Ivona Red Halter Neck Double duch*ess Satin Gown
If you want to feel like you just stepped out onto the red carpet (even if you’re just stepping out of your mom’s minivan), this Golden Age Hollywood-esque satin gown will help you feel the part. The halter neck combined with the subtle ruching at the hip and a draping neckline will say “I’m ready for my close-up”. The boned corset and lace-up ribbon closure are also great if you want something a little more waist-snatching.
7. Mac Duggal V-Neckline Flutter Sleeve Ball Gown With Slit
Now we’re talking! This dress is a bonafide showstopper, and you’ll be sure to turn heads thanks to that silky, ballgown silhouette and unforgettable taffeta florals on the sleeves. Bold doesn’t always have to be brash, and the charming elegance mixed with a touch of fun is the type of personality we love for this dress.
8. Satin Cut Out MaxiDress
With the right accessories, this summertime spaghetti strap maxi can transform Cinderella-style into a belle at the prom dress. We like that you can pair this with some gold hoops and a chain necklace for something a little more elevated, but bring on the strappy sandals and a beachy wave for a night out in the warmer months.
9. Endless Optimism Navy Blue Floral Print Satin Tiered Maxi Dress
Satin dresses don’t have to be monochrome to still feel elegant, and this sleek woven satin number comes with a lush floral print that’s sure to stand out from the crowd. A little garden party, a little beachside wedding, the high, fitted waist and maxi hem with a side slit is just preppy enough for a prom crowd.
10. Satin Corset Mermaid Strapless Prom Dress
Big fan of shades green, but not big into florals? This subtle, satin mermaid dress will pair perfectly with your sparkly bling. The corset also lends a unique silhouette that elevates the fabric from potential pajama territory to night on the town-material.
Feathers and Sheer Sophistication
11.
Go boho chic with this stunning bustier gown from For Love & Lemons and REVOLVE that’s anything but simple. It’s so delightfully extra, from the cascading lace, to the sheer paneling, and that corset bodice. Trust us that you will look like a phoenix rising on the dance floor — accessories not necessary.
12. ASOS Curve One Shoulder Embellished Midi Dress
If you’re looking for a mini dress with a bit more oomph, this throwback 1920s flapper-esque dress has it all — beads, faux feather, and shine. Just like the dress description reads, “Am I… the drama?”. This pick allows you to shake, shimmer, and not feel restricted by a traditional corset or back-tie design.
13. Selkie The Fairytale Gown
By now, we’re sure you’ve seen the viral Selkie dresses all over your IG feed (or on the runway for Fashion Week) and have already added it to your #cottagecore mood board. Voluminous and romantic, we can’t get enough of their Fairytale Gown, a happy marriage between their short and sweet Puffer dress and their longer, more traditional Romance Novel dress. Get ready to be swept off your feet!
14. Enopink Sequin Feather Prom Dress
Mermaid silhouette, baby tassels of feather, and a darker color scheme? Sold. You’ll shine like a star in this glamorous dress with a high slit and deep that’s perfect for showing off some strappy sandals or a high-heeled boot. The feather trim also adds a touch of elegance to what would otherwise be a standard sequin-covered prom look.
15. Lulus True to Heart Beige Floral Embroidered Maxi Dress
For those classy garden party vibes, you’ll want to find a floral number paired with a super luxurious fabric like this maxi dress. The playful chiffon ruffles and sheer mesh add a flirty edge, while the climbing ivory, red, and green floral embroidery says “Romeo, take me somewhere we can be alone“.
