5 Places to Shop for Prom Dresses…Stand Out in the Crowd!

April 24, 2015 Feature Posts, Shopping 1 Comment

Prom season is here, and all around the Ocean State, high school students and local business people are dreaming. Those seeking dates are dreaming up creative and elaborate ways to “prompose” to the apple of their eye. Florists are planning colors and ordering flowers for their corsages and boutonnieres. Hairstylists, makeup artists, and nail technicians are preparing for many busy days. Limo and specialty bus drivers are filling their calendars. And, as this apogee of high school culture approaches, young ladies are intently and obsessively imagining perfect dresses. A survey by Visa found that the national average for prom spending in 2014 was $978. While that amount includes attire, limousine rental, tickets, and dinner, everyone knows that it’s all about the dress. The prices for prom dresses have a wide range, with most falling between $100 and $400. Of course, deals can sometimes be found for less than the lower price, and there are many dresses that go well above the higher one.While there endless online outlets for shopping for the perfect gown, Rhode Island boasts many fine stores where shoppers can try dresses on to their heart’s content, show the results to wallet toting parents, and benefit from the knowledge and care of dedicated salespeople. Not to mention, support these local shops that know how to dress you to impress on occasions such as the prom.

1. Zuzu’s Petals, at 288 Thayer Street, Providence; 165 Main Street, East Greenwich; 338 C County Road, Barrington; is the creation of Lois Hollingsworth, who has lovingly built Zuzu’s into a Rhode Island classic over the last 25 years. Each of the four Zuzu’s locations carries different inventory and selection of styles, with some common themes. Knowing that each shopper is unique, Zuzu’s sales staff will help to find the perfect dress, in the right color, and with the right fit. They will also do their best to take not sell a duplicate dress to your prom! Formal fashions by Nicole Miller, Milly, Amanda Uprichard and much more. Hours vary depending upon location. Phone 398-1199.

2. Stefania’s Boutique, at 894 Oaklawn Avenue, in Cranston, is a family owned and managed business begun by Antoinette Carmosino and her daughter, Stefania. The boutique’s goal is to provide the highest quality dress buying experience, with a comfortable and relaxed feeling. Offering a full range of alterations, and designs by Jovani, Tony Bowls, Sherri Hill, Mac Duggal, Riva Designs, Milano Formals, Vienna Prom, Terani Couture, Scala, House of Wu, Janique, Shail K, and Feriani Couture. Hours Mon-Fri 10-6, Sat 10-4, Sun 12-4. Phone 942-3304.

3. Wishing Well Bridal, at 333 Newport Avenue, in East Providence, is a family owned and operated salon that has provided beautiful dresses and exceptional service for generations of shoppers in their more than 54 years of business. Their alterations department has decades of experience and will make sure you love the fit. While primarily a bridal salon, Wishing Well sells formal gowns for a variety of occasions, with prom dresses from Clarisse, Dave and Johnny, Josh & Jazz, and Shimmer by Bari Jay. Hours Mon-Fri 9:30-8:30 Sat 9:30-5 Sun 9-3. Phone 434-4600.

4. Sonya’s, at 766 Oaklawn Avenue, in Cranston, has been fashion forward in Rhode Island for more than 30 years. The store’s seeks to pair shoppers with apparel that is timeless and fabulous. Sonya, along with manager Alyce, and seamstress Cirella, have been providing a glamourous space for it girls and divas since 1983. Prom gowns by La Femme, Jovani, Faviana, Blush Prom, Mac Duggal, Dave & Johnny, Alyce Designs, Kimikal, and Alexia Admor. Hours Mon-Weds 10-6 Thurs 10-8 Fri 10-6 Sat 10-5 Sun 12-5 Phone 946-2388.

5. INfusion Boutique, at 289 Cowesett Avenue # 16, in Warwick, is a pageant and prom focused boutique, and they base their business on the belief that the customer’s need is of the utmost importance. They have a team based approach to service, and their Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages showcase their successes. Gowns from Sherri Hill, Jovani, Mac Duggal, Claire’s Collection, Tony Bowls, and more. Hours Mon 2-6 Tues 1-7 Weds 2-6 Thurs 1-7 Fri 2-6 Sat 10-5 Sun 12-5 Phone 480-8187.