The fashion-girls guide to prom dress shopping

Because there's more to life than jewels and chiffon

Prom season is here and with it comes the usual wave of flouncy pastel dresses and stress. To be perfectly honest I could do without either, thank you very much.

When I was looking for my very own prom (ew) dress (I prefer to call it and evening gown- much more sophisticated) I had a huge problem, mainly because there was nothing I liked in any high street shops- nada. It's also probably one of the few times when I would have preferred to try on styles in person rather than online, but due to the disappointing lack of varied styles- this became somewhat a problem.
So because the internet failed to advise me on this niche topic, I thought I'd share my little wisdom with other girls who are in my predicament.

I'm going to go right ahead and say this post if for people who don't like classic 'prom' dresses like these:

Not that there is anything wrong with these but if you're looking for something a bit more unique, you're at the right place honey.
 Here is some of the inspiration I found when deciding what I liked:
jewel tones

All these and more can be found on my Pinterest board

As you can see there's not so much a running theme- but 2 things were very important to me:

1) having a luxurious fabric

2)being on trend (aka not falling into a prom dress cliché)

If you're shopping in person

1. Do not  go to Finsbury Park. I was recommended to go here by a family friend who's daughter had found her dress there and I can totally see the appeal if you like bejewelled sequiny dresses, but as previously mentioned, I don't. Also they charge ridiculous prices for what honestly looks like a bridesmaid dress from My big fat gypsy wedding. Harsh but true.

2. Go to House of Fraiser. Seriously, I know what you're thinking, that sounds like the least chic shop ever but you'll be surprised. After a whole day of traipsing round Westfield white-city this was a last resort that my mum suggested, and I really wasn't expecting much. Boy was I surprised. For the first time that day I actually found myself trying on things I wanted not just because my mum told me to (that comes in at step 3) and found some beautiful ones from Ralph Lauren and Karen Millen. So if you pass one by, go in!

3. Don't spend ages trying on things you know you'll hate. I did this because I hated every dress we found and knew for a fact that it would look awful on me but my Mum insisted that I did and guess what? I hated them. The only ones I liked and that looked good on me were ones I had picked out so don't waste your time. If it's easier, gwith a friend.

4. DO NOT SETTLE. This sounds over dramatic for buying a prom dress I know but when you're spending a considerable amount of money it's important to get something you love, and will hopefully last you a few years. Even if you think you'll never find one you love, keep looking.

The best shops for on-trend gowns

ASOS- without doubt the easiest option, just be aware, other people could get the same one

Little Black Dress- I found this little known shop which looks great and has some very chic styles- you'll definitely stand out.It also has very handy navigation tools to find exactly what you're after.

 House of Fraiser (much better in store)

House of CB-or those who prefer a sexier look. Seen on celebrities like Beyonce (!!!) and sold in Topshop, this is a winner and has the most modern take on prom dresses.

Boohoo- Yes I know this is an odd one but if you're on a budget, look no further

Fame and Partners -This now ships to the UK, AFTER I GOT MY DRESS!!! I think I might throw something

Now I've shown you my pick of shops, the real hard work is in finding a good dress. To make it easier for you, I've picked the best, in my humble opinion. My favourites are starred*

Sexy

Plum keyhole dress . Orange velvet dress* .  Peplum Fishtail

Sparkly

glitter maxi . sequin jumpsuit* . high low (it's exclusive!)

Patterned

Striped maxi . Halter floral . Feather print

Midi

Embellished* . Wrap dress . Feather dress . psychedelic* 

Accessories are what make an outfit standout so if you'd like to see a post on that and how I accessorise mine, let me know.

Also if you know any good shops for prom dresses I would LOVE to hear about them!