Prom season is here, which means we’re all about the elegant gowns, statement jewelry, fresh-bloomed flowers and memories that’ll adorn your photo frames and Instagram accounts for years.
Whether you’re off to a night you’ll always remember with a partner or a best friend (or even solo, #hereforit), your dream dress is right around the corner.
If you’re looking to the most popular trends for your prom gown inspo, then airy styles (think lace, tulle and ruffles), sequins, feathers, fringe and vintage 90s looks will be all the rage.
But, those skyrocketing prices may lead you to another more-affordable route — and, rightfully so.
We pulled together this year’s edit of the 30 best prom dresses under $200. We’ve heard it all, too — you’ll only wear it once; it’s only one night — but we’re not planning to compromise style in the process.
Not to mention, these coveted styles can be reworn to future weddings, galas and other formal events if you want something a bit dressier than a co*cktail dress.
Plus, with prom dresses from Windsor, Lulus, Amazon and more, you’ll be dressed to the nines, your most comfortable heels for dancing and clear lip gloss for reapplying in tow (not to mention, a grandeur designer clutch).
Click to jump to a specific prom dress shop:
1. Woosea V-Neck Split Evening Dress, $59
We’re virtually obsessed with Woosea’s V-Neck Split Evening Dress, a flattering, simplistic option that’ll make you pop at prom. It comes in dozens of colors, though this berry fuschia is too impeccable to resist. Not to mention, it’ll pair nicely with some nude heels.
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2. Ever-Pretty Sparkly Embroidered Dress, $65
To make you feel like a princess, look no further than Ever-Pretty’s Sparkly Embroidered Mermaid Dress. It’s another elegant option that comes in many colorways (and plus size options!), though the denim blue is giving off total Cinderella vibes. Plus, the sheer sleeves and vine detailing are oh-so-glamorous.
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3. Dream Wedding Off Shoulder Prom Dress, $70
If you’re looking to make an entrance, then this Dream Wedding Off Shoulder design will have you turning heads the moment you walk through the door. It features a fitted corset-like bodice and smooth satin material, and a high-slit to let you show off your sparkly heels. We adore all of its hues, but this hot pink one especially will even have Barbie herself giving it the side-eye.
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4. Ever-Pretty Mermaid Plus-Size Evening Gown, $70
Look your best with Ever-Pretty’s Mermaid Evening Gown, a lovely plus-size prom dress that has head-to-toe beading that’ll shine on the dance floor. What’s more, the subtle tulle trumpet hem and ombre-style applique are beauties of their own.
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5. Wusan Two-Piece Lace Satin Evening Gown, $75 to $95
We can’t get over this gorgeous two-piece prom dress that’s head-to-toe chic with a glimmer of sexy (we’re looking at you side leg slit). The plum is our favorite girly-girl option, though others are just as lovely, and it’s unheard of for a dress this good to be less than $100.
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6. Susana Asymmetric Off Shoulder Mermaid Dress, $60
Who said you can’t wear the longer version of your favorite LBD to prom? From the off-shoulder design to its simplistic nature, you can’t go wrong with this affordable prom dress option (especially when paired with rhinestone earrings or a gorgeous emerald bracelet).
7. Shine Language Rose Gold Sequin Mermaid Maxi Dress, $99
What better way to ring in the warmer weather than with a shimmery rose gold dress? Everything from its tank straps to its romantic floral pattern keeps bringing us back to this mermaid prom dress. Not to mention, the less-than-$100 price point and intricate sequin detailing.
8. Cassidy Formal Sequin Feather Dress, $63
Just because it’s prom doesn’t mean you have to go with a long dress. This short prom dress boasts total red carpet vibes that’ll really impress your date and friends. Its feather shoulder embellishment paired with the one-shoulder cut is simply divine and, with this mini gown, you’ll look ultra-glam with some shimmery eyeshadow and delicate fine jewelry.
9. Michael Costello x Revolve Addison Maxi Dress, $198
For anyone looking for modest prom dresses, add some flair with this runway-ready design from Michael Costello. Available at Revolve, we adore the scoop halter high neckline, slit and ruched detail (oh, and that eye-catching sky blue color).
10. Missord Mermaid Hem Bardot Sequin Prom Dress, $53
Stand out on prom night in gold! Missord’s Mermaid Hem Bardot Sequin Prom Dress is a fit that will look so good with some natural bronzed makeup and gold evening earrings (like this pair from Amazon). It’s giving us upscale honeycomb-turned-elegant vibes that we just adore.
11. Lulus Song of Love Off-the-Shoulder Maxi Dress, $109
Prom is one of the most thrilling nights of your life, so why not spice things up with hot pink? This bodycon off-the-shoulder option is pure bliss and gives off total Marilyn Monroe vibes. Plus, the $109 price ticket is refreshing for a dress of this style.
12. SHEIN Plus-Size Flutter-Sleeve Prom Dress, $40
Tap into boho with this flutter-sleeve dress that’s flattering on all body types, including plus-sized. Paired with your favorite freshwater pearl necklace and a voluminous hairstyle (made possible with the best curling irons and wands, of course), and you have yourself a prom-night winner.
13. Long Prom Dress with Double-Slit Skirt, $139
If “Bridgerton” took place in 2023, this would be the dress all the socialites would wear. How riveting is this luxe option from PromGirl? From the twirl-around skirt to its lace, V-neck top, it’s an upscale, dreamy option we’d wear if we had to RSVP to prom this year.
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14. ASOS Design All-Over Fringe Tassel Dress, $135
ASOS is back and better than ever in this lilac fringe prom dress that’s undeniably one of the most one-of-a-kind styles we’ve seen. We dare you to try and *not* twirl in this getup and, when paired with a black clutch, it’s primed to perfection.
15. Geo Sequins Mermaid Hem Prom Dress, $55, original price: $57
This iridescent prom dress is everything we’ve been dreaming of, from its purple and gold-speckled print to its flattering trumpeted style. For less than $100, it’s a tried-and-true steal and when we say nobody will have anything like it — we mean it.
16. Ever-Pretty Plus-Size Off-the-Shoulder Sequin Dress, $70
As one of the most affordable (and flattering) plus-sized options out there, Ever-Pretty has this beautiful mauve dress with stunning off-the-shoulder and sequined detailing. We can’t believe it’s less than $50 from Amazon (and comes in other colors, too).
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17. Jaeden Mermaid Trumpet Prom Dress, $167
They say “business in the front, party in the back” but, for this royalty-leaning prom dress, the party is definitely at the bottom. Available in practically every color under the sun, Amazon is making Sherri Hill affordable with Jaeden’s style, particularly for its quality, sweetheart neckline and irresistible train.
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18. GRAB A DRESS Side Slit Glitter Party Dress, $100, original price: $130
Let’s talk about the glittery pattern for prom — a unique colorway and one that’ll look absolutely gorgeous in photos (and with a white corsage). This slit-front dress is elegant, timeless and one that you’ll be comfortable in all night long. Did we mention it also comes with pockets?
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19. Kaliyah Formal High Slit Lurex Dress, $100
For $100, it’s worth picking up the Kaliyah Formal High Slit Lurex Dress from Windsor. The crossover off-the-shoulder bodice is prom-ready, along with its front hem and subtle sequined nature.
20. Romance in the Making Floral Velvet Maxi Dress, $69, original price: $88
If comfort is on your mind, Lulus’ Romance in the Making Floral Velvet dress is calling your name. This 90s-inspired prom dress will have your friends totally buggin’ for its simplistic yet velvety soft design. Plus, it’s the biggest bang for your buck since you can wear it again at a future occasion.
21. Morgan & Company Lace Corset Gown, $149
When it comes to prom, you can’t go wrong with a lacy black design. It’s less than $150 and is a plus-sized prom dress option made to perfection, hugging your body in all the right places. The corset top would also look incredible with an updo.
22. PromGirl Corset Bodice Short Prom Dress, $69, original price: $199
Let’s face it, everything’s better in pink and this PromGirl look combines girly with glam boasting a fitted corset bodice patterned with sequins. Thanks to the shorter length you can easily let loose on the dance floor and without feeling weighed down or restricted by a heavy ballgown.
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23. B Darlin Strappy-Back Satin Gown, $109
Now, this is Red Carpet-ready. Available in a swoonworthy amount of shades, B Darlin’s Strappy-Back Satin Gown is one nobody will forget. Specifically, this teal color is one we want to wear and never take off.
24. Taokepy Chiffon Off-Shoulder Prom Dress, $75
Elegant and classic is Taokepy’s Chiffon Off-Shoulder Prom Dress, a beautiful gown with a flowy skirt and accented applique detailing. We love this peachy color, though this affordable style comes in other pastels and moody tones, too. Just note that some shades can take up to five weeks to ship!
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25. Morgan and Co. Metallic Brocade Ballgown, $159
Ditch the classic matte look and opt for a unique prom dress you can’t help but shine in (no, but actually). The metallic-like material provides a jaw-dropping shimmer, while the floral pattern ties the whole look together. What’s even better? It has pockets! Now you can keep your phone or emergency lip close close to you all night long.
26. Xji*zu Long Puffy Sleeve Prom Dress, $97
If you’ve ever imagined yourself running through a castle in a tasteful ballgown — it was most likely in this one. The puffy sleeves and button down front ooze elegance while the delicate sweetheart neckline make it impossible for you not to be the belle of the ball — or, in this case, prom. If you’re prone to getting cold easily, then this long sleeve prom dress will definitely keep your arms covered so you can keep the cardigan at home.
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27. City Studios Off-The-Shoulder Tiered Mesh Gown, $159
Skip the chiffon and silk, and instead, opt for this tulle tiered prom dress. It’s a modern take on 80s prom dresses featuring a lace off-the-shoulder bodice and a sheer tulle skirt that will have you reaching for your nearest leather jacket to add some punk rock to the whole look.
28. Dress the Population Palmer Sequined Bodycon Dress, $168, original price: $258
Like Taylor Swift says, you’ll “make the whole place shimmer” thanks to the sparkly metallic pattern of this captivating prom dress. The one-should design means you can still through your hands in the air once “Bejeweled” starts playing. Plus, thanks to the midi-length, it’s a great happy medium for anyone looking for a little bit of length, but not too much coverage.
29. MSK Metallic-Print Pleated Blouson Gown, $129
We can’t get over the old Hollywood glamour vibes that this prom dress is serving. It comes with a high halter neckline if you’d prefer a more modest prom dress, and the pleated skirt will look absolutely hypnotic when you strut your way to the dance floor.
30. Aidan by Aidan Mattox One-Shoulder Cutout Gown, $195
Simple doesn’t always mean boring and this classic prom dress is anything but plain. The one shoulder strap goes across you chest, while the side cutouts provide some nice ventilation while adding some edge. Plus, peep that side slit that’s just begging you to pair it with a pair of glittery heels.
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