Prom is an unforgettable night thanks to the memories you'll get to make dancing the night away with your squad — but if you aren't careful, a lot of the traditions and festivities can come with a major price tag. The tickets, the party bus, the shoes, the hair, the bling, the post-dance, late-night McDonald's run with your crew and their dates — expenses can add up, and before you know it, you're dropping $600, and that's not even including your prom dress. Thankfully, with a little strategy, it's super easy to save some money on what can end up being the priciest prom investment: your dress.
To help you get prom-ready, we've compiled a list of the best places to buy cheap prom dresses. Some of your go-to sites for affordable casual fashion on the reg (like Lulus, ASOS, or Revolve) are actually *great* spots to find hidden gem dresses that are as luxurious and fabulous as the gowns that you see go down the runways. Shopping at these affordable brands will save you a good chunk of cash, and you won't have to compromise on style or slayage. You might even win that coveted Best Dressed award with plenty of $$$ to spare. Keep reading for all the best websites to buy cheap prom dresses.
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Pretty Little Thing Black Corset Detail Cross Halterneck Dress
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Lulus Shine Language Rose Gold Sequin Mermaid Maxi Dress
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Lulus Shine Language Rose Gold Sequin Mermaid Maxi Dress
Lulus sells some of the cutest dresses online for cheap, with something for every girl. If you're looking to go more laid-back for prom, grab a tea-length dress, and if you want full-on glam, you'll love their all-sequin gowns.
If you're looking for a dress under $100 that's sure to get everyone at your school talking, Tobi is the real deal. This site sells everything from mini dresses to bodycon pieces that look like you just went shopping in Kim Kardashian's closet.
We're about to let you in on a little secret...Few Moda is a hidden Internet gem that allows you to buy clothing from the same manufacturers your favorite brands purchase from (Reformation, Alice + Olivia, etc) without that extra middleman mark-up to save some $$$.
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Nordstrom Morgan & Co. Sequin Embellished Gown
No matter what your prom theme or your budget, Nordstrom has racks on racks of dresses to choose from. They've got everything from blinged-out midi dresses to massive tulle gowns.
Whether you're looking for something trendy or classic, Windsor is your stop. They've got super cheap dresses that look straight off the red carpet in both quality and style.
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Pretty Little Thing Black Corset Detail Cross Halterneck Dress
The perfect prom dress isn't complete without a little extra *drama*. PrettyLittleThing stocks all the cutouts, sequins, beading, and lace necessary for a standout gown. The site even offers a 40 percent student discount.
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Mariposa Sleeveless Applique Midi Dress Akira
Akira is known for their affordable, totally unique dresses. Shop everything from feathered minis to glitzy printed ball gowns for less than $100.
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Elliatt Across Gown Rent the Runway
If you're afraid of committing to one dress (hey, it's a big decision!), Rent the Runway is the best option. You can wear it, then send it back – and usually for only $60-$100. Shop their prom dresses online or swing by one of their brick and mortar locations.
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Showpo At The Altar Bodice Maxi Dress in Black
Meet Showpo, an Australian brand that boasts everything from corset tops to sweatsuits to full-on tulle gowns that'll have jaws on the floor at prom. You can expect to spend around $100 or less on a formal maxi gown.
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To secure an iconic style moment you'll never forget, you'll want to check out Mac Duggal — the brand sells formal gowns that truly bring the drama and opulence without the four-figure price tag. The brand can also be found at Saks Fifth Avenue and Rent the Runway.
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Nasty Gal Spot Print Satin Cut Out Waist Strappy Maxi Dress
This Girlboss favorite mostly stocks edgy daytime dresses, but if you're willing to dig, you can find some seriously cool prom-worthy gowns and jumpsuits for a super affordable price.
For Love & Lemons is famous for their floral summer dresses and luxe lace underthings, but they also make great party dresses. Their minis make a big impact, with bold statement sleeves, sexy lace, and lots of sequins.
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Hot AF dresses for prom, homecoming, and more can be found at online retailer Revolve. They've got high-quality pieces that you can get for a steal on sale.
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Boohoo Devore Cowl Neck Midi Slip Dress
Want to rock a sequin gown or a slinky slip for prom, but don't want to break the bank with a $100+ gown? Whether you're a size 2 or 20, you'll find a dress you love (and in your price range!!) at Boohoo.
If you've never shopped at Mango before, your life is about to change. On top of stellar formal dresses, they also stock all the trendiest pieces you've seen on Instagram. It's the fashion editor secret to looking chic asf on a budget.
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ASOS Lace Trimmed Maxi Dress With Floral EmbellishmentASOS
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ASOS Lace Trimmed Maxi Dress With Floral EmbellishmentASOS
If you're hunting for a totally unique prom option no one else will have, we recommend you head straight to ASOS. The online retailer has pages and pages of stunning gowns of all lengths, with totally unexpected details.
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Fame & Partners Sweetheart Column Dress
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Fame & Partners Sweetheart Column Dress
Fame and Partners stocks occasion dresses that look so chic, you won't believe the price tag. Most of them are under $250 and all are totally customizable. Add straps, shorten the skirt, remove the ruffles–with a few clicks you can make the gown of your dreams.
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House of CB
House of CB Myrna Tangerine Satin Corset Midi Dress
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House of CB
House of CB Myrna Tangerine Satin Corset Midi Dress
This Kardashian-favorite brand serves up smokin' hot dresses for every occasion. If you're looking for over-the-top sexy gowns that look super expensive (but actually aren't), hit up House of CB.
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You already buy everything else at H&M, why not your prom dress, too? This glitzy little number is less than $65. Choose your accessories wisely and you could nab a full prom look for waaaaay under $100.
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Prom Girl Long V-Neck Beaded-Bodice Plus-Size Prom Dress
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Prom Girl Long V-Neck Beaded-Bodice Plus-Size Prom Dress
A classy dress never fails to dazzle on prom night. This elegant number is just one of the dresses PromGirl stocks that will fit the bill. Plus, their Under $100 tab will keep your budget in check.
Kelsey Stiegman
Senior Style Editor
Kelsey is Seventeen.com's fashion expert and resident Harry Potter nerd. At the office, she spends her day writing about style, beauty, and literally every move Kylie Jenner makes. On the weekends, you can find her sifting through vintage shops and hunting for the perfect burger. Follow her on Instagram at @klstieg.
Hannah Oh
Assistant Shopping Editor
Hannah is the assistant shopping editor at Cosmopolitan, covering all things from cute apartment decor to trendy fashion finds, TikTok products that are actually worth your $$$, and the perfect gift to buy for your boyfriend's mom. She previously wrote for Seventeen and CR Fashion Book. Follow her on Instagram for hot takes on red carpet fashion and unhinged updates on the books she’s reading on the train.
