Fashion
20 Sexy Prom Dresses That'll Instantly Boost Your Confidence For The Big Dance
Prom is one of the few chances that most girls have in their life to get really, really dressed up. Most of us aren't going to land on a red carpet in our lifetime, so there's really just your wedding, maybe a few fancy black-tie events if you're lucky, and prom. Most people go the classy white dress route for their wedding, and most black-tie affairs are work-related, for charity, or otherwise unsuitable for a bedazzled thigh-high slit. A truly sexy prom dress is one that makes you feel confident and gorgeous — both on the dance floor, and when you look back at photos from the big night.
Click through for 20 dresses basically guaranteed to make you feel your best at prom.
A Sexy Statement
OK, so this first one isn’t actually a dress. If you want to stand out at your prom, consider a romper or jumpsuit. Breaking away from the norm is always hot.
BCBGMAXAZRIA Turner Romper, $35 rental, renttherunway.com
For the Girl on a Budget
Right? I were surprised to find this at Forever 21 too. It’s simple and understated the high-low hem feels super flirty. Plus it won’t break the bank.
Draped Chiffon Lace Dress, $45, forever21.com
No Fashion Tape Required
This gown may have quite the plunging neckline, but look closely: There’s illusion netting, eliminating the need for tricky fashion tape solutions that could distract you from dancing.
Way-In Pleated Strapless Gown, $58, shop.nordstrom.com
Sexy Boho Style
You can stay true to your bohemian style and still look glam in this dress.
Glamorous Maxi Dress with Embroidery, $73, asos.com
Cover Your Curves in Glitter
Just because you absolutely can’t go braless doesn’t mean your dress can’t be a total showstopper.
Badgley Mischka Rolling in the Glitz Gown, $75 rental, renttherunway.com
An Intriguing Open Back
Everyone loves an open back, but with this sassy dress you can make all the boys and girls at prom look twice at yours.
BCBGMAXAZRIA Cage Lock Gown, $95 rental, renttherunway.com
Silver Sparkle
This is what Ariel would wear to the prom if she really wanted to get that prince to kiss her.
Nicole Miller Arctic Mist Gown, $100 rental, renttherunway.com
Subtly Sheer
This gorgeous pink dress is sweet and innocent, until you get up from the table and flash a hint of your legs.
ASOS Lace Fishtail Maxi Dress, $135, asos.com
A Fun and Flirty Print
Proof that florals can be edgy, too.
Lipsy Printed Bandeau Maxi Dress, $144, asos.com
Goddess-Worthy
You’ll feel regal and sultry in this amazing black and gold gown.
Theia Golden Trim Gown, $150 rental, renttherunway.com
A Class Act
Another great option that’ll let you rock a proper bra! You won’t have to worry about tugging at straps or bodices all night, so you can focus on feeling awesome.
Virgo Lounge Julisa Wrap Front Dress, $172, asos.com
The Perfect Combo
A floor-length gown gets way more prom appropriate with a reasonable slit that makes dancing easier.
Line & Dot Seymour Sequin Dress, $188, nastygal.com
Make Them Blush
This dress somehow manages to be sweet and innocent but also flirty and alluring at the same time, thanks to the soft pink color and the daring cutout.
Philosophy Blush Flutter Gown, $200 rental, renttherunway.com
The Opposite of Bridal
Wearing white to prom can be tricky (too much lace and you end up in bridal territory) but the trendy cut of this dress overrides the color.
Fame and Partners Wired Cross Wrap Front Dress, $208, asos.com
Show Off That Collarbone
There’s something about an off-the-shoulder look that instantly makes you feel like a Disney princess.
Virgos Lounge Greta Off-Shoulder Dress, $217, asos.com
Flowy & Feminine
There’s that awesome open back effect again.
Fame and Partners Drama Queen Maxi Dress, $272, asos.com
For The Daring
Fake a risque look by opting for some extra illusion netting. You’ll be way more comfortable that way.
For Love and Lemons Luau Lace Mini Dress, $282, nastygal.com
Off the Shoulder
This dress is so sweet and simple, which can be a refreshing take on sexiness.
Forever Unique Plus Off the Shoulder Dress, $336, asos.com
Bright Yellow
A bright color = instant confidence. Pair it with a bold lip for even more head-turning prowess.
Jill Jill Stuart Sleeveless Deep V-Neck Chiffon Gown, $438, bloomingdales.com
Red Lace
A lace bodice feels ultra pretty, and that flowy skirt will look SO good in photos.
Mac Duggal “The Nina” Floral Ballgown, $578, shop.nordstrom.com
