2026 Ultimate guide to prom dress shopping in des moines
Updated for the 2026 prom season on January 26, 2026.
Prom season is one of the most exciting times of the year for high school senior and junior girls, and finding the perfect dress is at the top of every girl's to-do list! Whether you’re eyeing a glamorous ball gown styled dress with a full skirt, a sleek and modern silhouette, or a unique vintage-inspired piece, the Des Moines metro has some fantastic options to explore with a wide range of price points to suit any budget. To make your search easier, I’ve rounded up the best places to shop for prom dresses in Des Moines and surrounding area, complete with details to help you plan your visit.
8 Great Shops To Find Your Perfect Prom Dress in Des Moines
Stacey’s Bridal & Prom
Located in Urbandale on Plum Drive near SuperTarget, Stacey’s Bridal & Prom offers a wide range of prom dresses, from timeless classics to the latest trends. Their experienced staff is dedicated to helping you find the perfect dress to make your prom night unforgettable.
Gwen (Roosevelt High School ‘26) is modeling a blue and white floor length ruffled prom dress by Sherri Hill, purchased from Stacey’s Bridal & Prom.
Anna (Des Moines Christian ‘26) is modeling a red floor length mermaid style ruffled prom dress by Ellie Wilde, purchased from Stacey’s Bridal & Prom.
GLAM Prom
Located in the former David’s Bridal building in Clive, GLAM Prom is a seasonal store specializing in prom and homecoming dresses, open from late December through April for prom and August through September for homecoming. They carry top designer dresses by Sherri Hill, Aleta, Ellie Wild, Jovani, Portia & Scarlett, and many more, with most dresses ranging between $300 and $700. Payment plans are available too! GLAM also offers special orders and registers each dress to your school to ensure a unique look for your event.
Sydney (Urbandale High School ‘26) is modeling a green floor length prom dress with a lace bodice purchased from GLAM Prom.
Izzy (Urbandale High School ‘26) is modeling a red floor length prom dress with a sequin bodice purchased from GLAM Prom.
Schaffer’s Bridal
Located in West Glen in West Des Moines, Schaffer’s Bridal is well known for its extensive collection of designer prom dresses. With a focus on quality and style, their selection caters to a variety of tastes, ensuring you'll find a dress that makes you feel confident and beautiful.
Celebrations Couture
Celebrations Couture is a family-owned boutique located in the heart of Historic Valley Junction right on 5th St. in West Des Moines, with a carefully curated selection of prom dresses from designers like Dave and Johnny, Primavera, Scala, Aerie Couture, and many others. With a focus on personalized service, their team is dedicated to helping you find a dress that reflects your unique style. Prices range from $250 to $1100.
windsor
Located in Jordan Creek Town Center in West Des Moines, Windsor is a great option for girls looking for prom dresses with a modern, trend-forward feel. Their selection often includes sleek silhouettes and elegant details at a more accessible price point than traditional prom boutiques. The mall location also makes it convenient to shop for shoes and accessories in the same trip.
Cassia (Des Moines Christian ‘26) is modeling a teal floor length sparkly fitted prom dress purchased from Windsor.
dillard’s
Also located at Jordan Creek Mall in West Des Moines, Dillard’s has long been known for a wide selection of formal and special occasion dresses that are perfect for prom. While their inventory rotates seasonally, you’ll typically find formal prom dresses at a range of prices, with some clearance options under $100 and others up toward the mid-hundreds, depending on designer and style.
Julia (Urbandale High School ‘26) is modeling a green ruffled floor length prom dress purchased from Dillard’s.
Stuff, Etc.
With locations in both Clive and Ankeny, Stuff Etc is a trusted consignment shop offering a wide variety of gorgeous prom dresses on a budget. Selections changing frequently, so it’s best to shop early and shop often to find your perfect dress.
Many Hands Thrift Market
With locations in Des Moines, Clive, Grimes, and Indianola, Many Hands Thrift Market is a great place to find gently used prom dresses at affordable prices. Their inventory changes frequently, so it’s worth stopping by multiple times to see what new treasures arrive. Plus, shopping second-hand is an eco-friendly choice! Dresses range from as little as $15 on up to $40+.
Bonus option #9!
online prom dresses
If you don’t find exactly what you’re looking for locally, online shopping can be a helpful backup for exploring more styles and colors.
House of CB is a London-based fashion brand known for its glamorous evening dresses with figure-flattering corsetry, luxurious fabrics, and modern silhouettes that make a statement for prom night and other formal events. Their long gowns often feature dramatic draping, tailored bodices, and rich textures that feel elevated and dressy, with many styles in the mid-$200 to $350+ range.
Adrian (Des Moines Christian ‘26) is modeling a lavendar floor length satin prom dress purchased from houseofcb.com..
Ever-Pretty offers a wide selection of prom dresses online with a focus on affordability and variety, including many long gowns in classic and on-trend silhouettes. Most of their prom styles are priced under $100, making it a good option for families seeking a show-stopping dress without a big price tag. Their collection includes a range of fabrics and designs, from sequin and chiffon formal gowns to sleek maxi dresses in many colors and sizes.
Abi (Waukee Northwest ‘25) is modeling a dark purple floor length chiffon empire waist prom dress purchased from ever-pretty.com.
Tips for a Successful Prom Dress Shopping Trip
Start Early: The earlier you begin shopping, the more options you’ll have. Stores can sell out of popular styles as prom season approaches.
Set a Budget: Have an idea of how much you’re willing to spend before you start trying on dresses. Prices vary greatly from $15 for a thrift store dress on up over $4000 for the ultimate splurge.
Bring the Right Accessories: Wear or bring the shoes and undergarments you plan to use on prom night to ensure a perfect fit.
Schedule Appointments: Many stores recommend or require appointments, especially during the busy prom season. Call ahead to secure your spot.
Prom Dresses Des Moines
Shopping for prom dresses in Des Moines is as much about the memories as the dresses, and shopping with friends is part of the fun! Trying on gowns, sharing opinions, and celebrating each other’s style makes the experience unforgettable. These moments with friends are the kind of memories you’ll look back on long after the night is over.
As a Des Moines senior photographer, I specialize in helping high school seniors feel gorgeous and celebrate this amazing milestone in your life with beautiful images and stunning art products that will last a lifetime.
Senior pictures are too important to leave to just anyone with a camera. Contact me today to learn more about the senior session experience, or click the button below to view the senior portfolio.
