Prom Dresses

How do you choose a prom dress?

Start with the silhouette, then choose the color and details. The shape decides how a gown fits, moves and photographs, so it narrows the collection fastest. Then try your top two or three styles on at an authorized Jovani boutique, because the same size can fit differently in satin, sequins and stretch fabrics.

Which silhouette suits you?

Column prom dresses are the shape boutiques ordered most this season. They follow the body from bust to hem for a clean, modern line, and a high slit adds movement when you walk. Mermaid prom dresses fit through the hips and flare at or below the knee, so they show your curves and give a dramatic hem in photos. A-line prom dresses are fitted at the bodice and widen gradually to the floor, which balances the hips and makes this the easiest shape to dance in. Ball gown prom dresses pair a corset bodice with a full skirt, often tulle or brocade, for the most formal look in the room. Fit and flare sits between A-line and mermaid and flares from the hip.

How is a Jovani prom dress made?

Jovani builds its structured bodices with steel boning and lines its gowns, so the dress holds its shape through hours of dancing without constant adjusting. Corset backs and lace-up closures let a boutique fine-tune the waist, and many styles have built-in cups. Some gowns come with a detachable overskirt, so you can switch from a full skirt to a sleek column after dinner. Browse corset prom dresses.

Which fabric is best for prom?

Sequin prom dresses are what boutiques ordered most this season, followed by beaded prom dresses and satin prom dresses. Sequins and beading catch the light in evening photos. Satin gives a smooth, polished finish and looks best in fitted shapes. Stretch satin and jersey move with you, tulle adds volume to a ball gown without much weight, and chiffon floats, which suits A-lines. If you plan to dance all night, choose a stretch fabric. If you want a sculpted shape, look for mikado, taffeta or a boned bodice.

Which neckline should you choose?

Sweetheart prom dresses and V-neck prom dresses are the two necklines boutiques ordered most this season, almost equally, followed by strapless. A sweetheart curves over the bust and works with both simple satin and heavy beading. A V-neck lengthens the neck and frames a necklace, and a plunging V adds drama. Halter prom dresses draw the eye to the shoulders and give extra support, while off shoulder prom dresses show the collarbone and suit an updo.

What looks best in prom photos?

Sequins and beading sparkle under flash, and satin gives a smooth, glossy line at night. A boned bodice or secure straps keep the gown in place, so you spend less time adjusting between pictures. If you love movement, a high slit or a chiffon skirt shows it best in walking shots.

How do you find your Jovani size?

Measure your bust, waist and hips, then compare them with the size chart. Jovani prom dresses run from size 00 to 24; a size 4, for example, fits a 34 inch bust, 27.5 inch waist and 37.5 inch hips. Measure your waist at its narrowest point and your hips 8 inches below it. Choose the size that fits your largest measurement and have the rest tailored, because taking a gown in is easier than letting it out.

Why choose a Jovani prom dress?

Jovani has designed formal gowns in New York since 1983. Chief Designer Julie DuRocher and the design team create each collection in the brand's New York studio, many details are sewn by hand, and every gown passes Jovani's quality control before it ships. Because Jovani sells only through authorized retailers, you can see the beading up close, try the fit and get a stylist's help before you buy. Authorized boutiques order directly from Jovani, which protects you from copies sold online.

Ready to find your dress?

Filter the collection by silhouette, color, neckline or size, note the style numbers you love, then use Find a Store to see the closest boutique that carries Jovani prom.

Notes from our Chief Designer

“This season our boutiques are betting on the column gown, with the mermaid right behind it. Sweetheart and V necklines are equally loved, and sequins still win the fitting room. Choose your shape first, then let the sparkle find you.”

Julie DuRocher, Chief Designer, Jovani

Prom dress questions

How much do Jovani prom dresses cost?+

Most Jovani prom dresses have a suggested retail price of about $550 to $1,100. Our Signature Luxury styles cost more. Each authorized retailer sets its own price, so call a boutique near you with the style number to ask.

Where can I buy a Jovani prom dress?+

Jovani prom dresses are sold only through authorized retailers: boutiques you can visit to try dresses on, and approved online shops. Use Find a Store to see the closest boutiques, or browse our authorized online retailers.

Can I try a dress on before I buy it?+

Yes. Boutiques carry a selection of Jovani prom styles to try on. Call ahead with the style number shown on every dress page to check which sizes and colors they have.

What sizes do Jovani prom dresses come in?+

Jovani prom dresses are made in sizes 00 to 24. Measure your bust, waist and hips and compare them with the size chart on each dress page. For fuller figures, see Plus Size Prom Dresses.

When should I start shopping for prom?+

Boutiques begin ordering the new prom collection in early summer, so the widest choice is in stores from fall through winter. Shopping early also leaves time to order your size and for alterations.

How do I know my Jovani dress is authentic?+

Buy from an authorized Jovani retailer: the boutiques and online shops listed on jovani.com. Authorized shops order directly from Jovani.