One of the most common questions we hear every year is:
“When should I start shopping for my prom dress?”
With new styles selling quickly, limited sizes per design, and high demand during prom season, timing can make a huge difference in your shopping experience. The truth is simple:
The sooner you start shopping, the better.
In this guide, we explain the ideal time to begin your search, what can happen if you wait too long, and why early prom dress shopping leads to the best selection, fit, and overall experience.
The Best Time to Start Shopping for a Prom Dress: As Early as Possible
Prom dresses from the newest 2026 collection start arriving months before prom season, and the most popular styles sell out fast. Shopping early ensures you get:
- The best selection of colors
- A full range of available sizes
- Access to the most in-demand silhouettes
- Plenty of time for alterations
Many students begin shopping between December and February, which is considered the ideal window—especially if you want the first choice of new arrivals.
Why Shopping Early Matters
1. Avoid Sold-Out Styles
Prom dresses are not restocked like everyday clothing. Once a style or color sells out, it’s often gone for the season. Shopping early helps you secure:
- Your dream color
- Your perfect size
- Your preferred silhouette
Waiting too long reduces your options significantly.
2. Sizes Can Sell Out Quickly
Boutiques typically carry limited quantities of each size per style. Early shoppers enjoy a full size range, while those who shop later may face:
- Only very small or very large sizes left
- Missing popular mid-range sizes
- Limited color choices
Finding a dress you love is easier when the store’s inventory is fresh.
3. Alterations Take Time
Almost every prom dress benefits from professional tailoring. Hem adjustments, strap changes, bodice tightening, or slight reshaping create a polished, custom fit.
Most alteration timelines take:
- 2–4 weeks early in prom season
- Up to 6 weeks during peak months
Shopping early ensures you’re not rushed and gives you time for any additional adjustments if needed.
4. March and April Are Our Highest-Demand Months
At The Dress Shop, both showrooms experience extremely high traffic in March and April as proms across Nevada, Utah, Arizona, and California approach. During these months:
- Popular styles move fast
- Appointment slots fill quickly
- Walk-in wait times increase
- Alteration turnaround may extend
Shopping before these peak months guarantees a smoother, calmer experience and better selection.
5. You’ll Enjoy a Stress-Free Prom Season
Starting early allows you to:
- Find your dress without feeling rushed
- Coordinate your date’s look
- Choose your accessories
- Plan alterations with confidence
- Focus on the fun part—prom itself
Avoid the last-minute scramble and enjoy the process fully.
When Is “Too Late” to Shop for Prom?
While The Dress Shop carries hundreds of dresses and welcomes last-minute shoppers, waiting until late April or early May means:
- Limited sizes remain
- Fewer color options
- Higher competition for appointments
- Increased alteration demand
We can still help you find a gorgeous dress, but your options will be much broader if you start your search earlier in the season.
Tips for Shopping at the Right Time
Start browsing the moment new collections arrive
You can explore the Prom 2026 Collection here
Plan one month ahead of your school’s prom date
Earlier schools should shop even sooner.
Factor in alterations immediately after purchase
Bring your shoes or heel height to your fitting.
Shop before spring break crowds hit
March and April are the busiest months in our showrooms.
What Stylists at The Dress Shop Recommend
Our professional stylists suggest:
- Begin shopping at least 8–12 weeks before your prom
- Purchase early to secure your size and color
- Schedule alterations right after buying
- Visit both locations if you want to explore full inventory
Shopping ahead gives you the best combination of selection, fit, and peace of mind.
Final Thoughts: Start Early for the Best Prom Dress Experience
So, when should you start shopping for a prom dress?
As early as possible.
Early shopping means the best selection, easier fittings, and a completely stress-free experience. With new 2026 styles arriving regularly and high demand throughout March and April, the sooner you visit The Dress Shop, the better your prom season will be.