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The best prom dresses to buy now - and yes, we asked a celebrity fashion stylist for her favourites

Whether you're a prom queen or after something more subtle, these are the best prom dresses to buy

prom
Lauren Cunningham
Freelance Writer
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Prom may be a little while away yet, but we've heard through the grapevine that some people are already on the hunt for their dream dress. The earlier you search, the luckier you'll be finding your dream prom dress to dance the night away in.

READ: 19 pretty high-street bridesmaid dresses to fall in love with

Working out to wear to prom can be hard! Trust us, we've been there. You want something that looks great, is easy to move in and that you can also eat in – because there's usually a full three-course meal on offer, and you want to feel comfortable all night long.

So, whether you're looking for a prom dress for yourself, your daughter, niece, granddaughter or friend, then you've come to the right place.

How to choose a prom dress

As a stylist, I've worked with the styling teams for some of the UK's favourite celebs, dressing them for red carpet events such as the BAFTA's, TV Awards and film premieres. And for us non-famous people, prom is the time to glam up and get as close to red-carpet-ready as we'll ever be – and of course, it's a lovely send off from school. 

But, it can get a bit confusing. It's hard to know where to start with thousands of options from mermaid dresses to two-pieces, maxi, midi and fishtail. And if that's not enough to get your head around, then there's the shoes, bags and accessories on top.

Luckily, we've put the leg work in for you, scouring the web for the best prom dresses from ASOS, Next, Coast, Lipsy and more. So whether you're looking to be a prom princess or sleek and sophisticated, these are the dresses to buy.

SHOP: 22 stunning celebrity bridesmaid dresses: from Holly Willoughby to Frankie Bridge

MORE: 19 amazing websites to buy wedding dresses online: ASOS, Net-A-Porter, Revolve, eBay and more

Prom Queen-Worthy Dress We Love

pink sequin prom dress

Sequin Bodice Tulle Skirt Maxi Dress, was £299, now £239.20, Coast

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For anyone looking to win the Prom Queen crown, this princess style dress is the one for you. Pretty in pink with sequins, tulle, and a low back, it's every typical prom look in one. 

Slinky long Prom Dress We Love 

mustard slinky dress

Mustard Slinky Dress, £34, PrettyLittleThing 

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Get ready to wow in this dreamy mustard prom dress. Featuring asymmetric drape detailing and a maxi length, this dress has Love Island finale written all over it.

Short Prom Dress We Love

sage dress

Sage Sequin Skater Dress, was £64.99, now £45.28, Quiz

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Typically, most prom dresses are maxi or midi length, but that's not for everyone. If you're looking for something on the shorter side, then look no further than this Quiz skater dress. The sequinned bodice puts it firmly in the promwear category, and the mint green colour will really pop with nude shoes and silver accessories.

Red Prom Dress We Love

red prom dress

Halter Neck Bodycon Dress, £45, River Island

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Red will definitely make you stand out from the crowd, and this River Island prom option ticks all the right boxes. The halter neck gives it a sophisticated look while the bodycon fit with a split hem adds just a touch of sexiness. Team with a pair of strappy heels and delicate jewellery to complete the look. 

Sequin Prom Dress We Love

silver sequin dress

Sequin Midi Dress, was £199, now £146.30, Warehouse

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This Warehouse prom option really fits the bill for those who love a lot of sparkles (guilty as charged!). Currently on sale for 30% off, you can wear this one to parties, weddings and celebrations for years to come. Its midi length, balloon sleeves and cutout back add real interest, while the silver sequins make it a showstopper.

V Neck Prom Dress We Love

asos purple bridesmaid

Ruched Bodice Drape Maxi Dress with Wrap Waist, £80, ASOS

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A little secret when it comes to shopping for prom dresses, make sure to look at bridesmaid dresses too! More often than not, the two are very similar, and most brands crossover their products for both occasions. This ASOS dress is classic, simple and elegant – you really can't go wrong.

Midi Prom Dress We Love

blue midi prom dress

Bardot Xander Sparkle Midi Dress, £104, ASOS

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Featuring a high neck, ruched sides and a long sleeve, this dazzling sparkle dress couldn't be more perfect for prom. Pair with black or white shoes and silver accessories and all eyes will be on you.

Affordable Black Prom Dress We Love

warehouse black prom dress

Slinky Rib Open Back Halter Midi Dress, was £79, now £32, Warehouse

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Anyone who isn't in love with the typical prom dress style, this one may be for you. Currently on sale for a huge 60% off, this classic black maxi dress is a great fuss-free option. The halterneck and open back design subtly nod to prom while being simple enough to re-wear for years to come.

Tiered Prom Dress We Love

blue ruffled

Monsoon Tiered Embellished Maxi Dress, £110, John Lewis

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A tiered dress may seem like an old fashioned design, but it definitely gives a regal feel to the whole event. This Monsoon maxi is a gorgeous colour, and the embellished belt adds just a touch of sparkle. Perfect for prom!

Neutral Prom Dress We Love

next sequin dress

Maya All Over Sequin Cami Maxi Dress, £150, Next

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We all know that neutral colours are in right now, and this Maya dress is the perfect choice. Covered in silver sequins, it elevates the nude colour to prom worthy status. Wear with silver or nude shoes and simple silver jewellery.

Sexy Prom Dress We Love

navy satin prom

Satin Ruched Halter Neck Maxi Dress in Petrol Blue, £100, ASOS

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So many girls want to look sexy for prom. But trust us, going for something uber short, low cut or with cutouts can really backfire. This ASOS option is just beautiful, and the slinky silky material adds just enough sexiness while still looking elegant.  

Tulle Prom Dress We Love

tulle prom dress

Anaya With Love Tulle Maxi Dress, £72, ASOS

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Tulle is one of the most common fabrics used for prom dresses. Light and airy, it gives great dimension as well as a floaty feminine feel, and this sage green maxi version does just that. Featuring a one-shoulder design and a flattering fitted waist, this dress can be paired with white heels and gold accessories for an elegant finish. 

Floral Prom Dress We Love

floral prom

Floral bodice gown, £320, Needle & Thread

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Florals are a classic option and throw in some sequins and tulle, and you're prom ready - this Needle & Thread gown encompasses all of those designs for a beautiful, breezy and elegant gown.

Timeless Prom Dress We Love

blue prom dress

Satin Cami Blue Maxi Dress, £95, ASOS

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Sashay the night away in this beautiful dusky blue gown. Boasting a romantic scoop neck, adjustable straps and a flattering slinky fit, this timeless number is the perfect forever-piece.

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