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Homecoming dances and proms are all rites of passage and more importantly require the proper attire. One of the best parts of attending these dances and really any other formal events is the ritual of picking out what to wear.
Below we have found a great array of dresses to choose from that will not only make you look and feel great at all your school dances and events, but can be repurposed down the road for parties, graduations, and even weddings. These dresses come in a wide variety of colors and print options and their extensive size range means there is a dress for anyone and everyone.
With a simple change-up of accessories and addition of your favorite jacket or cardigan, you will get multiple uses out of these dresses and their amazing price points means when you find the one that you love, you can purchase it in many different colors.
Compare the Top Homecoming Dress of 2024
Grace Karin Vintage Tea Dress — Best Overall
The Vintage Tea Dress by Grace Karin has a 50s feel with its sleeveless boatneck style and full swingy skirt. Made of a mostly cotton blend with some added spandex for comfort, this dress slips easily on and off with a concealed zipper at the back, and most of the styles come with a thin, adjustable belt to help contour and flatter the waist. This dress also comes in a wide array of colors and patterns including floral, polka dots, and classic solid options that will work for almost any occasion, day or night.
Pros
- This dress has a generous size range for all body types
Cons
- An iron might be necessary to help with any wrinkling after washing
Sidefeel Off The Shoulder Cocktail Dress — Runner Up
This flattering skater dress by Sidefeel comes with an off-the-shoulder neckline with short sleeves and a fitted bodice that will work perfectly on a variety of shapes and sizes. Made from a polyester and spandex blend, this dress has a soft feel with medium elasticity that makes it easy to move in while helping to keep its shape. Its high-low flared skirt also makes it easily wearable for a wedding, a night out at the club, or you can easily dress it down with flats for a perfect weekend brunch dress.
Pros
- A side zipper makes it easy to get on and off
Cons
- Make sure to read the size chart for important sizing information
II ININ Maxi Dress — Honorable Mention
The II ININ Maxi Dress is a stylish and comfortable choice suited for many occasions. The unique design includes a pull-on closure, maxi length, deep v-neck, spaghetti straps, stretchable material, and a loose fit. The deep V-neck is both fashionable and eye-catching, while the split hemline creates an elegant fluttering movement. Not to mention, this maxi dress comes in a wide range of color and pattern options to choose from, so you can find the perfect one for your needs.
Pros
- Lightweight and non-wrinkling fabric
Cons
- Runs long and may need alterations or heels
Kate Kasin Sequined Evening Dress — Most Notable
Kate Kasin’s Evening Dress can easily be worn to your first homecoming and will be equally as stunning at a wedding or even as the bridesmaid (pending approval of course). This is a mid-length dress with a deep V-neck in the front and back and a flattering empire waist. The main attraction, of course, is the stunning all-over sequins, while its many color options ensure a perfect match for just about any event.
Pros
- This dress has a concealed zipper in the back
Cons
- This dress has no added stretch
Homeyee Sleeveless Cocktail Dress — Contender
If you are looking for a versatile mid-length dress that comes in a variety of colors and prints, this chic cocktail number by Homeyee is a great option. Available in two different flattering versions, a sleeveless or 3/4 sleeve, this dress also features a crew neckline and concealed back zipper. Each color and print option also features lace trim at the waist, giving it a unique, dressy look suitable for many semi-formal occasions or formal events.
Pros
- The fabric is a polyester, cotton, and spandex mix making it stretchy and comfortable to wear
Cons
- Read the sizing chart carefully to ensure the perfect size
FancyInn Spaghetti Strap Dress — Also Consider
Whether you dress it up or down, this sleeveless dress from FancyInn works for most occasions with the simple addition of some fun and appropriate accessories. Made from a super lightweight and stretchy material, this dress will be soft and comfortable to wear even in the warmest of climates. Adjustable spaghetti straps and backless, U-shape design can be easily covered with a shawl, wrap or cardigan and side pockets give it some casual glamour that always makes everyone happy.
Pros
- This classic dress can be worn in a variety of ways
Cons
- You cannot wear a bra with this dress
InsNova Cold Shoulder Skater Dress — Another Option
This dress offers cold-shoulder type sleeves for an unbelievably flattering look. A sweetheart neckline, hidden back zip, and V-shaped back also make for an elegant silhouette that can be worn for a variety of occasions. Consider this semi-formal, fit and flare dress for cocktail parties and wedding receptions while being demure enough to be worn for a school dance, homecoming, and/or graduation festivities.
Pros
- The fabric has been upgraded and is now wrinkle-free, making traveling with this dress a breeze
Cons
- This dress may fall below the knees on more petite figures
Buying Guide: Homecoming Dresses
Homecoming can be a wonderful experience for you and your friends. It is an excellent time to show off your style and create an impressive transformation moment. The most important thing about homecoming is not what you look like but having a great time. With that said, looking and feeling fabulous means one less thing to feel self-conscious about on the night, so you can spend the whole evening having fun.
Your homecoming dress should compliment your skin tone while expressing your personality. The right dress will also be made specifically for your body shape. This is the most important thing to consider when choosing a dress for any occasion. Continue reading for our tips to find out which type of dress will best suit you.
Save Long Dresses for Prom
Prom is a more formal occasion, compared to homecoming, that seniors attend. Traditionally girls wear long dresses to prom and shorter dresses to homecoming. However, the most important aspect of a homecoming dress is to feel comfortable. You do not want to let insecurity ruin your night. Do not feel afraid to go against the grain, and choose a style you love.
Choose a Dress That Compliments Your Body Shape
To find your perfect homecoming dress, you must know your body shape. Of course, each body shape is unique, but most can generally be sorted into the following categories.
Slender
Slender body shapes are lean and thin. They usually have long arms and legs with few curves. If you have this body shape, a mermaid dress will suit you best. Although many mermaid dresses run to the floor, you can find some that are calf-length. The shape of this dress will add some curves to your hips and bum.
Belted dresses will also compliment your figure by making your waist seem slimmer than your hips and bust; it adds the illusion of curves. Ruffled dresses will add some density to the places where you do not have many curves. Scoop neck dresses are a great way to accentuate your height, and a sweetheart neckline is feminine, creating an elegant look on slender physiques.
Hourglass
Hourglass body shapes measure the same around their hips as their busts or shoulders. However, they go in at the waist. Hourglass body shapes look great in almost anything but look their best when wearing something that comes in at the waist. Look for a dress with a belt or a tied wrap to accentuate to achieve this look.
Fitted dresses also fit the bill. This body type can wear a variety of necklines and will look great in an open-shouldered dress, a sweetheart neckline, and a V neck. Try a one-shouldered dress if you want something a little more unique-looking.
Busty
If you have a larger than average bust, you are considered busty. However, you can still be busty and hourglass-shaped. If this is the case, incorporate advice from both our busty and hourglass sections. Choosing a nice dress when you are busty can seem difficult. For example, the breast panels are often too small, or something considered elegant on flat-chested women is considered provocative on a large-breasted woman.
To get the right balance, look for a shift dress. You can find plenty of cool retro dresses in this style. A mermaid dress is also an excellent option for you because it will make your bum and hips look more prominent. In addition, an open neckline will draw attention to your slender collar bones and help the rest of your body look more balanced.
Pear
Pear shapes have slender shoulders and breasts and large hips and thighs. In addition, people with this body type have a well-defined waist and slender arms. The right dress for you will draw attention to your upper body. A high waist or an empire waist is a great option.
Also, opt for a v neckline as this looks elegant on anyone slim on top. If you want to accentuate your curves, you can wear a mermaid dress or a bodycon mid-length dress.
Apple
Apple shapes are round at the waist and stomach with small hips and larger shoulders. Since you do not have much of a natural waistline, you should consider purchasing a dress that creates one. Dresses with a belt or a different color on top than the bottom will create a thinner-looking waist.
Although short dresses are traditionally worn to a homecoming dance, apple shapes look better in long dresses. Look for a dress with a hem wider than its shoulders and avoid bodycon dresses. Wearing a dark-colored dress with bold accessories is also recommended.
Consider Your Height
Your height will also slightly affect what best suits you. If you are 5’3 or under, consider purchasing a short prom dress with an asymmetrical hemline. You could also wear a dress with pleating and ruffled underskirt. However, avoid anything too cutesy, or you will look younger than you are.
Opt for block colors if you are short, as you will have less material to work with, and small patterned dresses may look too busy.
