Have you started looking for your prom outfit? May is approaching fast, which means prom is right around the corner. It’s time to hunt down the perfect outfit. Junior Emily Hoelscher suggests ordering your dress or suit at least a month in advance, so there is time for it to arrive and to get it tailored. 

Typically, stores tend to release their new collections at the beginning of the year to prepare for the prom season. The sooner you go shopping, then the larger variety of options you will have.

In the article, “All the 2023 Prom Trends That’ll Take the Dance Floor by Storm,” Samantha Olson explains that the trending dress styles this year have lace, tulle, ruffles, and sequins and dresses will be light, chic, and comfortable. 

Olson also explains that looser-fitting dresses will take the spotlight this prom season. Olson said that ruffled men’s shirts and sheer pants will make an appearance. Men’s Wearhouse suggests going with the all-black style tuxedo with eye-catching details. They said the detail should be in the tie, pocket square, or even a vest. They suggest wearing a tie and a vest that contrast colors. 

Men’s Warehouse also has a tux rental option for less than $100. This is a great option if you don’t foresee any other formal events in the future. The suit will be sent approximately 7 days before the event and you are expected to return it the day after your event. Though, seniors might be better off to buy a suit. It could serve multiple purposes, considering graduation is right around the corner. In a poll conducted on the Scribe Instagram, 66% of male student participants said they would rather buy their tux than rent it. 

Henri’s Cloud Nine located at Polaris is a popular place to shop for prom dresses. According to their website, they carry designer prom dresses and they have a variety of custom dresses. Though it would be really cool to wear a custom dress that no one else has, it comes with a price. Hoelscher explains that she likes to go look at the dresses and try different styles on to see what looks the best on her, though she isn’t super interested in buying her dress there. Most likely, you can find similar dresses online for a cheaper cost.

Senior Katie McEnery said she’s planning to spend no more than $200 on a dress. Senior Bailey Mulick agreed. Mulick said, “Spending $800 on a dress you’re going to wear one time is crazy.”

Mulick said there are much cheaper options. Hoelscher said she’s ordered from Lucy in the Sky in the past and she’s been satisfied with her purchases. This site has all types of dresses and the prices range from $50-$200. Hoelscher has also bought dresses from Windsor. 

Fairy Godmother’s is an all-volunteer organization that aims to “promote confidence and self-esteem in central Ohio high school youth,” according to their website. They do this by providing formal dresses and accessories to those who are unable to purchase the items themselves. They take donations too, so if you have an old prom dress that you don’t plan on wearing, consider donating it. 

Another idea is to thrift your outfit. Try checking the local thrift stores or buy used clothing from online websites such as Poshmark, eBay, or Depop. Facebook Marketplace may also be a good option. 

If you decide to order your dress online, it’s important to make sure the site is legit. You can do this by checking to see where the site ships from. If it’s shipping overseas it will likely take longer for it to arrive. Also, be sure to check the return policy. If there’s something wrong with the dress you want to be able to return it.