As prom season approaches, so does the quest for the perfect prom dress. However, finding “The One” outfit for this special night can seem nearly impossible amidst the commotion of final exams and the everyday rush of student life. This is where online shopping steps in, offering a world of options.
Online shopping has become extremely popular nowadays, particularly among Generation Z. Statistics show that 32% of Gen Z consumers shop online at least once daily, surpassing the habits of millennials, Gen X, and baby boomers.
However, despite its popularity, online prom dress shopping isn’t without its challenges. There’s a stigma attached to the process—a hesitation rooted in concerns about sizing, quality, and the overall shopping experience.
But worry not, as we’ve got your back! Today, we’re going to talk about the dos and don’ts you should keep in mind when planning to shop for prom dresses online, aiming to provide guidance and help you navigate this virtual marketplace with confidence.
Keep reading to know more…
The Dos of Online Prom Dress Shopping
Let’s start by discussing the things that you should do while shopping for your dream prom dress.
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Start Early
The journey to choosing a prom dress is exhilarating, but leaving everything to the last moment can add to the stress, leaving you all anxious and confused just days before the big night.
So, it’s recommended that you start the shopping process at least two months in advance.
Don’t forget that there would be other girls searching for their ideal prom dress as well, and if you delay it for too long, the dress you want may already be sold out.
Online prom dress stores usually release their new collections in November or December, so starting your search during that period ensures that you get the dress of your dreams without much hassle.
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Do Your Research
Now that you know the importance of starting your search as early as possible, it’s time to research your ideal dress. But how do you do it? How to decide which style or color you want to wear on your special night? Well, the internet can be your best friend at this time.
Before heading to the store’s website, take some time to browse online fashion magazines or go through your social media platforms to get inspiration from your favorite influencers or celebrities.
You can also create a Pinterest board featuring the trendy prom dress styles and hues that catch your eye and match your personal style.
This research will help you get a clear idea of what you want in your prom dress, and you won’t end up scrolling aimlessly at the online prom dress shop’s website.
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Set a Budget
Many people ignore this aspect while shopping for prom dresses online. Prom dresses come in a variety of prices, from affordable to extravagantly expensive. If you don’t set a budget beforehand, you may get lost in the whirlwind of options available.
Deciding on a budget will help you narrow down your options and ensure you don’t overspend. Prom dress shops online usually have a filter to see the dresses that are only within your budget. This option can be highly beneficial as it’ll prevent you from getting distracted.
While deciding on a budget, remember to consider other additional expenses, such as alterations, accessories, shoes, and even undergarments. With a solid budget, you’ll find a dress that looks amazing on you and won’t break your bank.
The Don’ts of Online Prom Dress Shopping
Now, without further ado, let’s hop onto the things you should not do.
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Ignore Sizing Charts and Measurements
This is one of the biggest mistakes that a person can make while shopping for prom or any other occasion. Every brand or designer has different size charts, so if you usually wear medium-size clothes, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the prom dresses you like will also fit you in medium.
So, understanding your measurements is extremely crucial while selecting a prom dress. To do that, take a measuring tape and accurately measure your bust, waist, and hips.
For the bust, wrap the tape measure around the fullest part of your bust. Measure your waist at the narrowest point, usually above the belly button and below the rib cage. Hips should be measured at the fullest part of your hips. Accurate measurements will help you choose a dress that will fit you like a dream.
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Dismiss Reviews and Feedback
Have you ever liked a dress so much just by looking at it that you don’t want to read the reviews about the online shop you’re about to purchase it from? If yes, then you’re not alone, as the images are captured in such a way that it creates an allure that often overshadows the importance of checking reviews.
However, remember that images can sometimes be misleading. Therefore, it’s recommended not to entirely dismiss reviews and feedback, even when the dress looks flawless in images.
These insights provide real experiences from individuals who’ve already purchased the dress you love. They can offer invaluable information about the fit, fabric quality, color accuracy, and overall satisfaction with the product.
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Overlook the Return Policy
What if my dress doesn’t fit me as expected? This is a question that many people ask when shopping for a prom dress online. It has a simple solution – return or exchange.
Online shopping platforms usually have a set return and exchange policy. So, make sure that you read this policy thoroughly before purchasing your dream dress.
Sometimes, it’s not even about the fit; maybe you just don’t like the dress anymore or it isn’t looking as flattering on you as you thought it would. In cases like these, these policies are like a lifesaver.
The Bottom Line
There you have it! Shopping for your dream prom dress online can be a breeze if you stick to these dos and don’ts. At the end of the day, it’s all about choosing a dress that makes you feel comfortable and like yourself on the big day.