I know it might seem ridiculously early to start speaking of prom, but company buyers purchase prom dresses in October to start retailing them at the beginning of January. When it comes to shopping for your dream dress, the early birds win - by far. Who will you go with? What do you wear? What REALLY are the benefits to buying a dress early? Don't worry, I've got this covered.
xoxo,
Jen Stack
If you are planning on expanding your search from the mall to dress boutiques it might be a good idea to go with an adult - especially if they're paying for it. Most boutiques require a parent to be present because of dress pricing. Plus, mom's usually know what looks best and you will FOR SURE get an honest opinion, if that's what you're looking for. Try to limit your number of "helpers" to 2 or 3 people. "Shopping in a group for your prom dress can end in disaster for one or more in the group. Too many competing opinions and interests, are likely to make the job a lot more stressful than it should be... Whoever you decide to bring with you, make sure you have the final say on your purchase. Remember that it is your prom dress, and you will be the one wearing it!"
Don't forget to keep an open mind! Last year, I learned this the hard way. I completely fell in love with a picture online. When I went to a boutique to look at the dress I fell in love with, it was everything BUT what I had imagined. The dress was stunning, but not exactly what I was looking for. "What looks good on the model won't automatically suit you, and insisting on sticking to a shape or colour palate that isn't working, will lead to a bad choice."
Once you are sure you will be attending prom, the earlier you begin your search and make your decision, the better! Looking early allows you to completely browse through hundreds of options while still leaving plenty of time to make up your mind. When you take advantage of time to try on new styles and colors, you may just end up with a dress you never thought you loved. Additionally, you skip the spring rush! "Spring is the 'black friday' of dress shopping." (I also learned this the hard way last year when I went in March!) Considering exams are right around the same time as prom, finding a dress early will take one big item off of your 'to-do list.'
Alterations are usually part of the dress process. Most tailors need 2-4 weeks to complete alterations. "The more complicated your dress is, the longer alterations may take; components like boning, corsets, netting, and intricate closures usually require extra time and attention." Last minute shopping leaves absolutely NO room for error.
Most importantly, prom dress shopping should be fun. When shopping for your dress, try to look your best! This will give you somewhat of an idea on how you will look on the day of prom. By doing this and purchasing your dress early, you will truly be able to enjoy the process.
Good luck dress shopping!
Sources:
https://www.dress2party.net/blog/2016/09/our-5-top-tips-for-buying-your-prom-dress/
https://www.rsvppromandpageant.com/blogs/blog/you-should-start-prom-dress-shopping-now-and-heres-why
https://faviana.com/blog/best-time-shop-for-prom-dress
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