Prom season has arrived and with it the expense of tickets, flowers, a limo, corsage, the obligatory after party and of course the dress! Here at TFC we feel your (or your parent’s pain) that’s why we’re sharing our favorite DIY Prom Dresses that are just as fab as what you’ll find in the store but much less expensive. Because we’re in fashion we wont post anything here that looks cheap, tacky, requires pricey materials or is downright impossible to do. We’re also going to stay away from anything that looks too crafty, like dresses made from Duck Tape or tissue paper.
For the Gal who Sews:
Every pattern company has prom dress patterns that are actually pretty cute. If you sew (or can beg your grandma to sew for you) this is a great option. Check out options by McCall’s and Simplicity. Be sure to check the skill level required, some are very easy and other are for experienced sewers. Our favorite is this keyhole floor length gown by McCalls, no 7866.
If you’re not great at zippers no worries, purchase a fabric with 4 way stretch (stretch in all four directions, not just two) and nix the zip. Pro Tips: Heavier weight stretch fabric can be very forgiving – we love neoprene! Stay away from sequins and velvet as these are ridiculously hard to sew.
SEWING YOUR OWN: PATTERN $8 + FABRIC $20 = ESTIMATED COST $28-50
For the Thrifty Type:
You can find amazing things in thrift stores but the prom/evening section always seems to be lacking. In between bridesmaids dresses from the 80’s and 90’s are stained and ripped pieces. Most aren’t your size and you leave discouraged, thinking ‘What am I to do?!?’. Well, think of those dresses as separate pieces – maybe a top works for you and you can cut off the skirt or vice versa. Also check the basic tops sections and skirts.
Pro Tip: It’s all about shape and fit! Find something you love the shape of that also fits you, it can be an actual dress or even lingerie.Cut off the parts you don’t like and, like Dr. Frankenstein, connect them to pieces that you do like. Remember this dress has to last one night so there’s no shame in hot glue or even staples – but we recommend (especially if you’re going to dance) using some strong fabric glue. Use binder clips to hold the pieces together while they dry overnight. Cover any imperfections with a simple ribbon belt.
Combine separates that you love for one killer prom dress! Thrift Store Separates $20 + Glue $6 = $26-38
For the Bling Lovers:
Embellish, embellish, embellish. This is all about transforming something plain into something prom worthy! Go to your mall, pull something off of Charlotte Russe’s $10 rack and make it your own. You can do this to low cut shapewear too for a deep V top! Buy strong fabric glue and choose your embellishments:
Rhinestone patches or glitzy trim: Do your research because this can get pricey. Look at the size of each item – the photos can be misleading.
Regular Patches: For a non-traditional punky look.
Lace fabric: Lace is wonderful because you can cut it into shapes and the fabric will not fray. It adds luxury to any garment!
Pro tip: Be sure that whatever you’re adding allows you to still wear your garment; especially if there is no zipper and the fabric stretches.
Make it Shine: Cheap dress $10 + Embellishments $20 + Glue $6 = $36
For the Princess:
Tutu or full ballgown netted skirts are classic for prom. The shape looks amazing on everyone and you can choose one color or several colors of tulle to create different effects. The length of your skirt is also up to you, will you do a short cupcake dress, a midi length or a long ball gown? Pro Tip: Buy yards of tulle fabric and not the rolls they sell at craft stores – they’re much too thin.
Tulle Ball Gown: Tulle Fabric $8 + Elastic $1 + A Top = $9+
The best thing about all of these options is you can mix and match. You can bling up some lingerie and make this simple tutu skirt or cut off the bottom of a thrift store find and create your dream princess prom dress!
Email us with any questions and Happy Prom!
