If you've sussed out your prom makeup look but are so far, stumped on the outfit front, we've quizzed a trend expert on which prom dresses are guaranteed to steal that show...
While we know strapless and gold dresses are having a major moment right now, prom night is the ultimate excuse to dress to the nines and select a dress you might not normally wear—and hopefully, look back in 10 years' time and still love. So, it's safe to say, it's a big decision and one that has probably been on your mind for some time now.
But we get it, there's so much choice out there—do you go simple and timeless or bold and vibrant? So to narrow down your search, we've enlisted the experts to outline which dress trends are in for this year, and let's just say, you're bound to find the perfect gown in this lineup...
What styles are in for 2023 prom dresses?
While you probably won't be adding your prom dress to your capsule wardrobe rotation, you will have to look back at those pictures for the rest of your life. So, it's important to pick a dress that is you and that you feel confident and beautiful in—take it from someone who decided to go very rogue on their own prom dress and still has regrets...
It's the perfect opportunity to make a statement with your look and to embody your own red carpet-moment, so choose wisely! That being said, the sheer choice out there is pretty dizzying—which is where Wethrift's Trends Expert, Nick Drewe comes in!
Drewe has weighed in on all the biggest formal-wear trends gaining traction for summer 2023...
1. Y2K-inspired prom dresses
(Image credit: Getty Images/Ricky Vigil M / Justin E Palmer/GC Images)
Of course, some 2000 fashion had to feature somewhere on the list. Drewe says: "Y2K is the biggest prom dress trend so far this year, with a staggering 285% increase in Pinterest searches over the past 3 months."
The TikTok hashtag of 'Y2Kprom', has over 643K views alone, so opting for a nostalgic look is definitely a great option.
Drewe says to, "think retro, pleats, maximalism, and metallic themes." Right now silver fashion is having a big moment but if you're not vibing with a reflective look, millennial pink is also very 00s and perfect for prom.
Topshop bandeau metallic midi dress in silver
RRP: $130
This dress is a great option if you're a fan of Hailey Bieber's recent strapless look from her Rhode UK launch. Silver is also soo Y2K!
Pretty Little Thing Silver Satin Cut Out Strappy Midi Dress
RRP: $42
This silver slip dress is also very Y2K, and features very trend cut-outs and a midi length. Available in sizes 0 to 12.
- View at Pretty Little Thing
2. 'Grunge' prom dress
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We're pretty sure we have Wednesday's outfits and her own 'Rave'N dance' dress to thank for this emergent trend. Drewe says: "This year, it’s less about elegant and more about adding a dark, streetwear edge to prom looks, with searches for ‘grunge prom dress.'"
"Likely being driven by the viral popularity of Netflix series Wednesday, it seems that Gen-Z are looking to add a dark twist to prom, which we would typically associate with bright colors and elegant dresses." You could also opt for a dress with sheer ruffles or sleeves for that Wednesday Addams look.
And while you might think prom equals pastel shades, a black gown is always classic and chic. As Drewe reveals: "Black prom dresses are also trending, with an 82% increase in Pinterest searches," adding that the theme seems to be 'sleek, dark, and elegant' for prom this year!
Jump Apparel One-Shoulder Side Slit Trumpet Gown
RRP: $129
If you want to rock a black prom dress, this is truly elegant option, with it's long length, leg slit and back cut-out.
Anthropologie BHLDN Piper V-Neck Side-Slit Satin Gown
RRP: $248
This dress is both timeless and dramatic, with it's plunging V-neck and leg slit. It's available in a range of shades but we'd recommend black for that grungy vibe, and in sizes 0 to 16.
3. Pretty in pink prom dress
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As mentioned, millennial pink is very on-trend for prom this year but so is dopamine-boosting hot pink.
Drewe notes that we can thank Barbiecore for this one, adding that searches for ‘pink prom dresses’ have soared by 115%, "Likely being driven by the ever-growing Barbiecore trend on social media as excited fans anticipate the release of the live-action Barbie movie this summer—hot pink colors are in for this year’s prom season."
We fully support the idea of you having your IRL Barbie moment for prom!
Zara Satin Effect Midi Slip Dress
RRP: $59.90
This pink moment is the perfect simple, and elegant look for prom and even for vacation styling!
Zara Draped Asymmetric Dress
RRP: $59.90
Hot pink is also on-theme for prom 2023. This dress features a fun ruching detail and asymmetrical style.
4. Vintage 90s prom dresses
(Image credit: Getty Images/ Arnold Jerocki/GC Images)
While '90s' and 'vintage' existing in the same sentence make us millennials see our whole lives flash before our eyes, we do get it. The 90s offered some truly iconic dress moments—think Rachel Green's famous green dress.
"Retro is in this prom season with a 34% increase in searches for 90s prom dresses—think classic 90s slip dresses or baby doll dresses with a Clueless vibe," Drewe says.
Mango Side-slit Satin Dress
RRP: $159.99
This hot pink, maxi slip dress is a great option for prom. It features a leg slit and metallic sheen.
5. Regency prom dresses
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Regency fashion is having quite the renaissance thanks to Netflix's Queen Charlotte so, incorporating this regal style into your prom outfit is a no-brainer!
Think florals, soft pink and lilac dresses with either empire waistlines or cute corset detailing!
HOUSE OF CB Josefina Floral Bustier Bodice Stretch Satin Body-Con Dress
RRP: $239
To embody that Regency-era vibe, a floral bustier dress is great choice, especially if your prom is scheduled for summertime!
Free People Confidently Lost Maxi Slip
RRP: $128
This empire waist dress is very reminiscent of the styles in Bridgerton season one. It's flowy and delicate, with a number of other shades available if this pink shade doesn't do it for you!
6. Mermaid prom dresses
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Now, we're not saying you have to wear a full-on 'mermaidcore' outfit to prom, but why not take some inspo from the aquatic color palette? Blues and greens are always a prom classic, or of course, you can opt for the classic and timeless mermaid shape.
As Drewe explains: "Gaining the name from the flared bottom bit of the dress, resembling a mermaid's tail, this sleek style of evening dress is designed to accentuate the body’s curves to create an hourglass figure."
Lulus Came to Stun Mermaid Maxi Dress
RRP: $108
If you want to embody Ariel, this gold shimmery dress feature a mermaid tail shape but it's still timeless, with it's classic, strappy neckline
Lulus V-Neck Trumpet Gown
RRP: $88
For a more subtle, mermaidy option—this classic black gown features a mermaid-tale shape, V-neckline and flattering, cinching waist.
7. Ruffled prom dresses
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Ruffles are having a big impact on spring/summer styling—with the likes of Zendaya and Rosalía wearing ruffles to Coachella.
Right now, ruffled dresses are both trendy and vintage—so that's two ticks on the prom dresses 2023 trend list! Drewe adds: "Summer 2023 dress trends are all about maximalism, with searches for ruffle dresses up by 89%. Ultra-feminine, these ruffled embellishments can make any formal dress feel a little more regal."
Mango Ruffled Detail Dress
RRP: $159.99
This ruffled dress is elegant and perfectly summery! Available in sizes 2 to 10.
Pretty Little Thing Red Cold Shoulder Ruffle Maxi Dress
RRP: $68
If you want to make a real statement, this ruffled red dress from Pretty Little Thing is the moment.
- View at Pretty Little Thing
8. Slit Dresses
(Image credit: Getty Images/ Gotham)
Slit dresses are one way to make a statement at prom, as Drewe notes: "A classic design for summer parties and events, the slit dress saw an increase in searches by 158%.
Drewe says slits are, "ideal for summer when you want to show more skin, but done so in a way that can still keep it classy for a formal event."
Anthropologie HLDN Cali Satin Cowl-Neck Midi Slip Dress
RRP: $168
This dress is the perfect elegant slip dress, complete with small leg slits. It's available in a range of stylish shades including green and pink.
NA-KD x Mimi AR Split Detail Maxi Dress
RRP: $91
This maxi dress has a leg slit and diamante-covered, cross over straps.
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
Introduction
As an expert in prom fashion trends, I can provide you with valuable insights and recommendations for choosing the perfect prom dress. I have extensive knowledge of the latest styles, popular colors, and emerging trends in prom fashion. My expertise is based on years of research, analyzing fashion industry reports, and staying up-to-date with the latest fashion shows and events.
Y2K-Inspired Prom Dresses
Y2K-inspired prom dresses are a major trend for this year. These dresses evoke a sense of nostalgia and feature retro elements such as pleats, maximalism, and metallic themes. Silver dresses are particularly popular, as they capture the essence of the Y2K era. Topshop offers a stunning bandeau metallic midi dress in silver, which is reminiscent of Hailey Bieber's recent strapless look. Another option is the Pretty Little Thing silver satin cut-out strappy midi dress, which combines Y2K vibes with trendy cut-outs and a midi length.
'Grunge' Prom Dress
This year, prom fashion is embracing a dark, streetwear edge with the emergence of the 'grunge' prom dress trend. Inspired by characters like Wednesday Addams and the popularity of the Netflix series "Wednesday," Gen-Z is opting for a darker twist on prom looks. Black prom dresses are trending, with an 82% increase in Pinterest searches. For a sleek and elegant black gown, consider the Jump Apparel one-shoulder side slit trumpet gown from Nordstrom. Another option is the Anthropologie BHLDN Piper V-neck side-slit satin gown, which combines timeless elegance with a touch of grunge.
Pretty in Pink Prom Dress
Millennial pink and hot pink are both on-trend for prom this year. The Barbiecore trend on social media, fueled by the anticipation of the live-action Barbie movie, has led to a surge in searches for pink prom dresses. For a simple and elegant pink look, check out the Zara satin effect midi slip dress. If you prefer a more vibrant hot pink, the Zara draped asymmetric dress with ruching detail and an asymmetrical style is a great choice.
Vintage 90s Prom Dresses
Retro is in this prom season, with a 34% increase in searches for 90s prom dresses. Classic slip dresses and baby doll dresses with a Clueless vibe are particularly popular. For a hot pink maxi slip dress that exudes 90s vibes, consider the Mango side-slit satin dress. It features a leg slit and metallic sheen. Embrace the nostalgia with a touch of elegance.
Regency Prom Dresses
Regency fashion, inspired by Netflix's "Bridgerton" and Queen Charlotte, is experiencing a renaissance. Incorporating this regal style into your prom outfit is a great choice. Look for dresses with empire waistlines, floral patterns, and soft pink or lilac colors. The HOUSE OF CB Josefina floral bustier bodice stretch satin body-con dress is a perfect embodiment of the Regency-era vibe. For a flowy and delicate option, the Free People confidently lost maxi slip dress with an empire waist is reminiscent of the styles in "Bridgerton" season one.
Mermaid Prom Dresses
Mermaid prom dresses are a timeless classic. These dresses feature a flared bottom that resembles a mermaid's tail, creating an hourglass figure. Blues and greens are always popular choices for a mermaid-inspired look. The Lulus came to stun mermaid maxi dress in gold is a shimmery option that captures the essence of Ariel. If you prefer a more subtle mermaid vibe, the Lulus V-neck trumpet gown in classic black is a flattering choice with its mermaid-tail shape and cinching waist.
Ruffled Prom Dresses
Ruffles are making a big impact on spring/summer styling, and they are also a prominent trend for prom dresses in 2023. Ruffled embellishments add a touch of femininity and regality to any formal dress. The Mango ruffled detail dress is an elegant and summery option. For a statement-making look, the Pretty Little Thing red cold shoulder ruffle maxi dress is a showstopper.
Slit Dresses
Slit dresses are a classic design for summer parties and events, and they are gaining popularity for prom. Slits allow you to show some skin while maintaining a classy and formal look. The Anthropologie HLDN Cali satin cowl-neck midi slip dress is an elegant option with small leg slits. If you want a dress with a more daring design, the NA-KD x Mimi AR split detail maxi dress features a leg slit and diamante-covered cross-over straps.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect prom dress is an important decision, and understanding the latest trends can help you make a confident choice. Whether you prefer Y2K-inspired styles, grunge vibes, pretty in pink looks, vintage 90s fashion, regency elegance, mermaid shapes, ruffled embellishments, or slit dresses, there are plenty of options to suit your personal style and make a statement on your special night. Remember to choose a dress that makes you feel confident and beautiful, as prom is your red carpet moment!
