The Ultimate Planning Guide: How to Shop For Your Prom Dress

Your school prom is one of the most exciting events of the year so you need the perfect dress to celebrate and feel amazing! At Sonique Dresses, we’ve helped thousands of girls ‘say yes to the dress’ at our amazing dress heaven, whether you want something long and slinky or the perfect Cinderella gown. But, as the special day approaches you must get organised so you can take your time and enjoy the shopping experience to the fullest!

Here are some top tips that will make prom dress shopping a breeze!

Tip 1 - Start shopping early to avoid disappointment

Most proms are arranged after exams in July and August and while that may seem like months away it will soon come around quickly! For big year 11 proms, it’s a good idea to start thinking about your prom in September when you return back to school for your final year. From October onwards, new collections start to arrive in store so if you want the first choice then you'll need to be quick!

After Christmas, prom shopping starts to hit its peak season so if you leave everything to the last minute your dream dress may have sold out already. Get ahead of the game and visit us before the mad shopping rush - we’re open until 9pm so you can pop in any time after school. Being early also means that you can secure the most gorgeous dress in our prom book so it's exclusive to you and no one else from your school can buy it! We have plenty of appointments available so get organised and book your slot today.

Tip 2 - Plan your appointment

Popular times such as half term holidays and weekends get booked up quickly. From mid January-June most weekends are fully booked so you may find it difficult securing a convenient time unless you book in advance. Prefer to shop when it's not so busy? Why not shop during the week when we’re open until 9pm and avoid the busier times?

Tip 3 - Research your favourite styles beforehand

It’s a good idea to browse our Instagram feed and website for ideas before you come for your appointment. Screenshot your favourite dresses and styles or even create a collage to show our stylists so they can pick out your sizes to try on. Even if you don’t have a solid idea of your perfect dress, doing a little research will give you inspiration and our stylists can select a range of gowns based on what you like.

Tip 4 - Think about a budget

You should also have a budget in mind so you don’t fall in love with a dress that’s over budget! We offer affordable payment plans so you can start paying months before your prom and have everything cleared before your prom date.

Tip 5 - Be open minded!

It’s also important to be open-minded even if you have your mind set on a particular style or colour. You’d be surprised how many girls leave their appointment with a beautiful dress that they never thought they’d choose. We have gowns that suit all sizes, skin tones and heights so make the most of your appointment and get out of your comfort zone by trying on a selection of dresses. If you’re a little unsure of where to start, we can help you pick out the most flattering options and talk you through the different styles we have in store.

Tip 6 - Think about your accessories, hair and makeup

Your accessories, shoes and hair should work around your prom dress and not the other around, however, if you have a particular vision in mind you should consider this when trying on dresses. For example, if you plan on wearing your hair up, then take a look at dresses that complement this such as gowns with beautiful necklines or open backs. If you have already purchased shoes or accessories, make sure you bring these with you so you can try everything on together.

Your prom dress should be the statement piece - how often do you get to dress up like a princess for a day? But, thinking about your hair, makeup and accessories can give you a better idea of the finished look. When you’re trying on dresses if you’re a little unsure about a gown, remember that on your big day you’ll have your hair and makeup done as well as beautiful matching accessories.

Tip 7 - Don’t forget to have fun

Prom dress shopping should be a fun experience so remember to have fun! At Sonique Dresses, we offer more than just a dress boutique. Our dress heaven provides a VIP experience as soon as you walk through the door including 90 minutes with your very own stylist. Try not to stress when you come in - we have so many different gowns that you’re bound to find the perfect dress for you! You only go prom shopping once so appreciate this moment and don’t be worried as it’s your time to feel like a princess. This is your chance to feel gorgeous and you can show off each dress your try on by strutting your stuff on our in-store catwalk!

Tip 8 - Take someone with you but not a huge group of people

Remember, you’ll need to bring an adult or parent with you to your appointment but avoid bringing large groups of people. It’s best to take one or two close relatives such as your mum and dad or a parent and a friend, as having too many people around can complicate things and make your decision even harder! It’s important that you feel your best when you go prom dress shopping and a lot of this is down to who you bring to your appointment. Limiting the number of people you bring also makes your prom outfit more of a surprise so avoid bringing your whole extended family to your try on session!

Can’t wait to start prom dress shopping? Take a look at our beautiful collections of over 2,000 dresses and get inspired. Sequins, lace and princess styles - you name it we’ve got it! Book today and visit our dress heaven.