HOW MUCH DOES THE AVERAGE PROM DRESS COST? (2024)

PARTY QUEEN / Feb 02, 2024

As prom dress experts, we hear these questions all the time: How much is the average prom dress?

When shopping for a dress, this is a very important question to ask because it helps you prepare a budget. But we’ll let you in on a secret: there’s really no one answer. In reality, you can find an array of beautiful prom dress options no matter your budget.

But to help you get a sense of prom dress prices and narrow your options, here are six prom dresses under three different price brackets.

Average Prom Dress Cost: Dress Options for All Budgets

Our goal at GLS Collective is to offer luxury dresses at affordable prices. All of these prom dresses are under $500. Let’s take a look, shall we?

Prom dresses under $250

Slay without breaking the bank with these dresses:

This Asymmetrical sequin mermaid dress

The average price of a prom dress totally varies—but it’s very easy to find gorgeous gowns for under $250.

Take this fuchsia mermaid dress as an example. Its color and silhouette are very trendy, while the asymmetrical neckline adds a unique touch. The high slit in the skirt allows you to rock your favorite pair of fancy heels. And it's covered head to toe in sequins!

This luxe dress will totally turn heads. Our styling tip? Keep your hair and makeup simple and let your dress shine (literally)!

HOW MUCH DOES THE AVERAGE PROM DRESS COST? (1)

Get the look: GL3204 Asymmetric Sequin Mesh Mermaid Long Dress w/ Cut-out Front


This metallic sequin and glitter mermaid dress

The average prom dress cost for this dazzling gown is also under $250. We know—it’s hard to believe. The metallic embellishments totally make it look more expensive, don’t they?

As you can see, you don’t need to spend a ton of money to create a luxe look. We recommend looking for prom dresses with silver or gold embellishments, like sequins and glitter, to dial up the luxury.

Black is the perfect backdrop for metallic embellishments. It really makes them pop! We recommend embracing this glamorous vibe and accessorizing with a sparkling pair of earrings or lariat necklace.

HOW MUCH DOES THE AVERAGE PROM DRESS COST? (2)

Get the look: GL3370 Metallic Sequin Glitter Mesh Mermaid Long Dress w/ Side Slit


Prom dresses $250-350

Glitter mesh A-line dress

This mesh A-line dress is a stunning option if you’re budgeting for a higher average prom dress cost. Its voluminous A-line skirt will make you feel like a royal. And prom is totally an event to dress the part.

The corset-style bodice, paired with the full skirt, accentuates your curves and hourglass shape. It's also decorated with floral applique, creating a soft, whimsical vibe.

The mesh fabric is covered in glitter, so you’ll shimmer under the evening lights. There’s so much to appreciate here—and yet it’s still such an affordable price! To complete this look, our experts recommend styling your hair in soft waves.

HOW MUCH DOES THE AVERAGE PROM DRESS COST? (3)

Get the look: GL3202 3D Flower Glitter Sheer Bodice Mesh A-line Long Dress w/ Side Slit


Silver embellished mermaid dress

When asked how much the average prom dress is at GLS Collective, our answer is that you can find many options and styles for a few hundred dollars. But of course, some are priced lower and some higher.

This gorgeous silver mermaid dress is under $350 as well, but the head-to-toe sequins make it look much more expensive. The detachable waist drape also helps create an upscale vibe.

Plus, we love the strappy bodice. It’ll make you feel more secure, all while making a bold fashion statement (we always love a 2-for-1 deal!).

How should you style this dress? We recommend eye-catching silver shoes and jewelry. Embrace the sparkle, ladies!

HOW MUCH DOES THE AVERAGE PROM DRESS COST? (4)

Get the look: GL3273 Jewel Sheer Bodice Mesh Mermaid Long Dress w/ Detachable Waist Drape


Prom dresses $350-500

Asymmetrical embellished mermaid dress

If you’re expecting average prom dress prices to hover around $350-500, we have options for you, too.

This yellow mermaid dress pulls out all the stops: a detachable waist drape, feathers, sequins, beads, you name it. They all come together to create a showstopping look.

The sunshine yellow color, paired with the embellishments, is totally giving sun goddess, don’t you think? We recommend finishing your look with bronzer and highlighter to create a sun-kissed effect.

HOW MUCH DOES THE AVERAGE PROM DRESS COST? (5)

Get the look: GL3278 Asymmetric Feather Mesh Mermaid Long Dress w/ Detachable Waist Drape


Strapless ruffled trumpet dress

This last black prom dress makes quite the fashion statement. It has a trumpet silhouette, which is accentuated by a full ruffled skirt. You definitely won’t blend in with a silhouette like this one.

The strapless bodice offers balance to the look, so you won’t feel too covered up in fabric. Show off those collarbones and shoulders by sweeping your hair to the side!

HOW MUCH DOES THE AVERAGE PROM DRESS COST? (6)

Get the look: GL3315 Sequin Sheer Bodice Ruffled Skirt Strapless Mesh Trumpet Long Dress


Let’s find the right dress for your budget

So, how much should a prom dress cost anyway? We hope you never feel pressured to buy a dress based on what you think you should be spending. As you can see, there are beautiful prom gowns for all budgets. So we recommend setting a budget that you feel comfortable with.

While the average prom dress cost is hard to nail down, we hope you have a better sense of prom dress prices and what types of dresses you can find for your budget.

If you found a prom dress you loved in this blog or our online catalog, we recommend reaching out to a store near you to try on the stunning number! Or, if you’re still exploring, take a look at these blogs for more prom dress inspo:

  • Red and Black Prom Dresses: Two Hot Shades to Wear This Season
  • The Black Swan: How to Stun in Black Prom Dresses
  • Prom Color Ideas: Six Gorgeous Shades You Won’t Go Wrong With
  • Six Cute Sparkly Prom Dresses for Girls
  • Prom Outfit Ideas Perfect for Your Kibbe Body Type
  • Trendy Prom Dress Ideas: Five New Styles That’ll Take Home the Crown
HOW MUCH DOES THE AVERAGE PROM DRESS COST? (2024)

FAQs

HOW MUCH DOES THE AVERAGE PROM DRESS COST? ›

If you're expecting average prom dress prices to hover around $350-500, we have options for you, too.

What is the average cost of a prom dress? ›

The Prom Dress $85 – $700

Prom dresses will most likely be the most expensive part of attending the event for you. Even if you plan on making your own dress, fabric for formal gowns isn't cheap. So, the best way is to plan your look ahead of time so you can shop seasonal sales.

What is a good price to pay for a prom dress? ›

Imo anything between £30 and £100 for the whole shebang (what a word!) is reasonable. Anything over £100 is just pointless for one night. I would say a £30 to £60 for dress plus maybe £20 to £40 for shoes, handbag etc.

Is 600 a lot for a prom dress? ›

The costs of prom dresses have risen over the last decade with now the average girl spending around $300-600 on the perfect dress. The average cost of a prom dress in 2016 was roughly around $300 but now more companies are charging more than ever for prom dresses.

Is 300 too much for a prom dress? ›

Prom gown: around $300-$700, before alterations

But if you're checking out the off-the-rack selection at a store like Hershey's Cocoa Couture, $300 is going to be the low end. “Our dresses here, we try to keep them under $500,” said Jill Brown, owner of Cocoa Couture.

Who usually pays for prom? ›

The person who asks someone to prom is responsible for paying for the night's expenses, traditionally.

Why does prom cost money? ›

With prom being an exclusive event for only juniors and seniors, there are fewer students in attendance. This causes a need for higher ticket prices to cover the various costs that are included in hosting a large scale event.

What does prom stand for? ›

Although prom in its precise definition is short for promenade dance—a formal dance party for high school students held toward the end of the school year—there are several other activities that typically take place on prom night, including group photo sessions, dinners and afterparties.

How to have a cheap prom? ›

Everyone should be able to look their best at prom
  1. Turn your house into a salon.
  2. DIY your corsages and flowers.
  3. Homemade potluck > fancy dinner.
  4. No limo? No problem.
  5. Keep it low-key.

Should the guy pay for prom? ›

While some couples will go dutch, the gentlemanly thing to do is to pay for the prom tickets for you and your date. Yes, it may seem like a lot of money, but your date is likely spending much more money (and time) on the perfect dress, hairstyle, makeup, manicure, pedicure, etc.

What is a size 2 in prom dresses? ›

In American sizes: size 2 is equivalent to XS; size 4 to S; size 6 to M; size 8 to L; size 10 to XL and size 12 to XXL. Typically, this is the case, but sizes may vary depending on the store.

What are girls wearing to prom in 2024? ›

From elegant long mermaid gowns, romantic cottagecore dresses, sleek prom suits, trendy black sheer dresses that could have come straight out of the Euphoria set, and gothic gowns inspired by Wednesday Addams, and affordable prom dresses on Amazon, there's no shortage of options.

Is a short prom dress OK? ›

Absolutely, it's more than okay to wear a short dress to prom! Prom night is one of those high school experiences that is filled with expectations, cultural significance, and a bit of coming-of-age drama.

Is $500 a lot for a prom dress? ›

If you're expecting average prom dress prices to hover around $350-500, we have options for you, too.

What is a prom dress code? ›

Prom is a formal event and you are expected to wear formal attire. Formal prom attire may be classified as a dress, tuxedo, dress suit, including a tie or bow tie, a dress shirt, which may include a vest or cumme*rbund, and dress shoes. ● Dresses may be strapless (if they fit properly) or include spaghetti straps.

What is a size 10 in prom dress? ›

Blush Sizing
SIZEBUSTWAIST
63528 1/2
83629 1/2
103730 1/2
1238 1/231 1/2
9 more rows

What is the most common prom dress? ›

Pastel Colored Dresses

Even though neons have been all the rage these days, pastel gowns are still one of the most popular prom dress picks. Sugary shades like pastel pink, baby blue, pale yellow, spearmint, and lilac represent girly, stylish, flirty, and subtle vibes.

How do you budget for prom? ›

What is a good budget for prom?
  1. Buy or rent prom attire: $100–$500. ...
  2. Hair and makeup $50–$300. ...
  3. Flowers $20–$100. ...
  4. Limousine $80–$300. ...
  5. Hotel $150–$300. ...
  6. Skip the “promposal” ...
  7. Save on prom clothes and accessories. ...
  8. DIY corsage.
May 3, 2022

How much does prom cost to plan? ›

Prom, but at what cost?
Aspect of promCost
OtherRented tables, chairs, linens and centerpieces (around $2,000); $300 tent if it rains and security is around $300-$400
After Prom$800 to rent bowling alley, $2,000 for t-shirts, $2,000-$2,500 for prizes
Total (Prom)Around $12,000
Total (After prom)Around $5,000
5 more rows
Mar 30, 2019

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