Prom season is almost upon us and for those lucky enough to be attending a prom, it is time to start putting some thought into the all important decision on which of the many prom dresses out there to wear?

Another American cultural import, a prom is usually held to celebrate the final year of school but these days there are also proms celebrating other important milestones like end of sixth form, college or university. A prom is traditionally a formal event for American high school students and in  UK proms can also be known as Leavers’ Ball or parties. Less formal alternatives are known as a leavers do and in Ireland they are called Debs which comes from the the French word word Débutante. Of course the word itself conjures up the aristocratic beginnings of the word where a young lady from a family with status reached the age of maturity, and as a new adult, is introduced to society at a formal presentation known as her “début”.

Modern Débutante Balls are nowadays not quite so traditional, and often held in aid of charity, and more about having fun and getting dressed up rather finding the right blood line to marry into.

When choosing which prom or party dress to wear to a prom or ball, it is advisable to check on the dress code and look at what sort of prom dresses attendees have worn in previous years. Traditionally ball dresses, evening dresses or  prom dresses and gowns are worn but it really does depend on the occasion and sometimes less formal party dresses or shorter cocktail dresses are considered acceptable. Formal prom dresses are usually floor length gowns or mid length dresses and often feature luxurious fabrics, embellishment or details such as dresses with lace.

Designer Prom Dresses

draped party dress

If you choose to get a  designer prom dress, it is a great investment. Once you have been to your prom, it will last for many years to come or you can sell it as second hand so that someone else can enjoy wearing it to their prom. Alberta Ferretti is particularly known for her beautiful evening wear. This goddess like draped dress for her young and trendy label Philosophy Di Alberta Ferretti would make the perfect prom dress.

Maxi Prom Dresses

shimmering foil party dress

A formal style of a maxi dress is a flattering, on trend and cost effective dress to wear to a prom and totally on trend for this season. There are plenty of styles of maxi dress to choose from with the like of Goddiva having some great affordable options to choose from including this glamorous shimmering foil dress with  halterneck top.

Traditional Prom Dresses

Traditional prom dresses are usually strapless and fitted at the top flaring out to a long full length skirt or mid length skirt from the waist. Some times they have thin shoulder straps, net under skirts, sashes or corsage detail. Debenhams have a range of beautiful traditional prom dresses in fabrics like organza and taffeta like this gold rose corsage dress.

Cocktail Prom Dresses

lipsy Party Dresses

For a slightly less formal prom or ball a shorter party or cocktail dress is  a  great option. Detail and features like draping, beading and embellishment will help to make a dress that little bit more special than an average party dress but not quite as dressy as a formal ball gown. Lipsy have an amazing selection of stunning cocktail dresses, we love this one shoulder pleated satin dress.

Cheap Prom Dresses

Cheap Prom Dresses

If you are on a budget but don’t want to compromise on style you can often get great designer dresses by shopping online or at high street shops instead of the specialist prom dress retailers. You could also try shopping the sales for some great bargains. Boohoo.com have some great dresses at great prices that could be worn to a prom or leavers ball. We love the detailing on this beaded maxi dress.

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