Prom and homecoming season = major main character energy.
But before you can make your entrance, you’ve got one important mission: find the dress. Sounds easy, right? Until you’re knee-deep in sparkle, opinions, and TikTok inspo and suddenly don’t know where to begin.
At Twirl Prom, we totally get it, and we’ve seen it all. The good, the gorgeous, and the “oops, should’ve thought that through.” That’s why we’re sharing the 8 biggest dress shopping mistakes girls make and how to dodge them like a pro. Because finding your dream dress should feel fun, not frustrating.
1. Waiting Until the Last Minute to Shop
We know, prom and homecoming can feel like they’re forever away. But trust us, waiting until the last minute to find your dress is a big no-no.
The early birds really do get the best picks. When you start shopping a few months ahead, you’ll get first dibs on all the styles, colors, and sizes. Plus, you won’t have to go through that heartbreak of someone else snagging the dress you’ve been dreaming about.
And let’s be real, shipping delays are no joke, especially during busy seasons. If you need to order a dress, it could take weeks (sometimes months!) to arrive. And once it’s here, you’ll probably need alterations.
Speaking of alterations, they’re way easier to schedule when you’re not in a time crunch. A good seamstress needs time to work their magic, and you’ll want at least one fitting to make sure the dress is a perfect fit.
Our advice: Start looking at least 2-3 months before the big day. That way, you’ll have plenty of time to shop, find the one, and get it tailored without any stress..
2. Not Having a Budget Before You Start
Walking into a dress shop without a budget is like going grocery shopping when you're hungry, you might end up with way more than you planned for!
Knowing your price range from the start helps narrow down your options and keeps you from falling in love with a dress that's out of reach. It also helps your stylist show you options that actually work for your budget.
But here's something many people forget: the dress isn't your only expense. You'll also need to factor in alterations, shoes, accessories, and possibly undergarments. These extras can add up quickly, so plan for them from the beginning.
What to do instead: Set a realistic budget that includes everything you'll need. If you're unsure about costs, call ahead and ask about alteration pricing so you can plan accordingly.
3. Forgetting to Check Your School's Dress Code
Nothing's worse than finding the perfect dress only to discover it doesn't meet your school's guidelines. Every school has different rules about things like hemlines, necklines, and cutouts.
Some schools are pretty relaxed, while others have strict requirements about strap width or how much skin can show. Save yourself the heartbreak and check these rules before you start shopping.
What to do instead: Look up your school's dress code online or ask your student council for a copy. Keep these guidelines in mind as you browse, and don't be afraid to ask your stylist if a dress meets the requirements.
4. Only Trying on One Style (or Copying Someone Else)
Maybe you've had your heart set on a specific style since you were little, or maybe you saw a dress on Instagram that you absolutely have to have. While it's great to have ideas, being too narrow in your choices might mean missing out on something even better.
Your best friend's dream dress might not be yours, and that's perfectly okay! You have your own unique style and body type. What looks amazing on someone else might not make you feel your best.
Part of the fun of dress shopping is discovering what you love. You might be surprised by what catches your eye or how different styles look on you.
What to do instead: Come in with an open mind. Try on a few different silhouettes, colors, and styles. You can always go back to your original favorite if nothing else feels right, but you might discover something unexpected that makes you feel incredible.
5. Bringing Too Many People to Your Appointment
It's tempting to bring your whole squad along for the experience, but sometimes too many opinions can make decision-making harder, not easier.
When you have five different people giving you feedback, you might end up more confused than when you started. Everyone has different tastes, and what one person loves, another might not be crazy about.
Plus, large groups can be distracting. You want to focus on how each dress makes you feel, not on managing everyone's opinions and keeping the peace.
What to do instead: Bring one or two people whose opinions you really trust and who know your style well. This might be your mom, your best friend, or a sister. Keep the group small so you can really focus on finding what makes you feel amazing.
6. Choosing a Dress That's Cute but Uncomfortable
Your dress might look stunning, but if you can't move, sit, or dance in it comfortably, you're going to have a long night.
Remember, you'll be wearing this dress for hours. You'll be dancing, sitting down for dinner, posing for photos, and celebrating with friends. If your dress is too tight, too loose, or just plain uncomfortable, it's going to put a damper on your fun.
What to do instead: Test every dress you're considering. Sit down in it. Raise your arms. Take a few dance moves. If you feel restricted or uncomfortable, it's not the right dress, no matter how pretty it is.
7. Skipping Alterations Thinking the Fit Will Be Perfect
Even if you find a dress in your exact size, it probably won't fit perfectly right off the rack. Bodies are unique, and dresses are made to fit a general size range.
Professional alterations can make a huge difference in how your dress looks and feels. A hem that's the right length, straps that fit properly, and a bodice that hugs you in all the right places will make you feel so much more confident.
Some girls worry that alterations are too expensive or unnecessary, but they're actually one of the best investments you can make. A well-fitted dress will look more expensive and feel more comfortable than even the most beautiful dress that doesn't fit quite right.
What to do instead: Budget for alterations from the start and schedule them as soon as you buy your dress. Most alterations are pretty affordable, and the difference they make is worth every penny.
8. Settling for a Dress You Don't Really Love
Sometimes you get caught up in the pressure to choose something, anything—especially if you've been shopping for a while. But settling for a dress you're not totally excited about is a mistake you'll regret.
If you're feeling unsure about a dress, it's okay to take some time to think about it. Sleep on it. Look at photos. Talk it over with someone you trust.
You want to feel absolutely amazing in your dress. When you find the right one, you'll know it. You'll light up when you see yourself in the mirror, and you'll feel confident and beautiful.
What to do instead: Trust your instincts. If a dress doesn't make you feel fantastic, keep looking. The right dress is out there, and when you find it, you'll be so glad you didn't settle.
Make Your Dress Shopping Experience Amazing
Avoiding these common mistakes will help you actually enjoy the process of finding your perfect dress. When you plan ahead, stay open-minded, and trust your instincts, dress shopping becomes the fun, memorable experience it should be.
At Twirl Prom, we're here to help you navigate this exciting time. We believe every girl deserves to feel absolutely beautiful on her special night, and we're dedicated to making that happen. Our team knows how to help you avoid these common pitfalls while finding a dress that's uniquely you.
If you're in Ohio and ready to start your dress shopping journey, we'd love to help you find the one. Come visit us for a fun, no-pressure appointment where you can try on gorgeous gowns and get expert advice from stylists who truly care about making your experience special.
Your perfect dress is waiting—let's find it together!
