Skip to content

Top Navigation

InStyle InStyle InStyle InStyle
  • News
  • Fashion
    • Clothing
    • Accessories
    • Street Style
    • Look of the Day
    • Fashion Week
  • Celebrity
    • Awards and Events
    • Celebrity Transformations
    • TV Shows
    • Movies
    • Music
  • Beauty
    • Makeup
    • Best Beauty Buys
    • Health & Fitness
    • Skincare
  • Hair
    • Celeb Hairstyles
    • Color Ideas
    • Long Hairstyles
    • Medium Hairstyles
    • Short Hairstyles
    • All Natural
  • Lifestyle
    • Astrology
    • Travel
    • Weddings
    • Books
    • Food and Drink
    • Home and Decorating
  • Politics & Social Issues
    • President Joe Biden
    • Dr. Jill Biden
    • Vice President Kamala Harris
    • Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez
    • Women in Politics
    • Women's Movements
    • Equal Pay
    • Badass Women
    • Motherhood & Parenting
    • Career
    • Charity
    • Choose 2020
  • Pop Culture
    • TV Shows
    • Movies
    • Books
    • Music
    • Social Media
    • Ladies First Podcast With Laura Brown
  • How To
  • Shopping
    • Celebrity Looks
    • Clothing
    • Accessories
    • Beauty
    • Home and Decor
    • Holiday Gift Guides
  • Video
  • In The Mag

Profile Menu

Your Account

Account

  • Join Now / Your Account
  • Newsletter
  • Email Preferences this link opens in a new tab
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription this link opens in a new tab
Login
Subscribe
Pin FB

Explore InStyle

InStyle InStyle InStyle InStyle
  • Explore

    Explore

    • The 8 Breakout Hair Color Trends of Winter 2021

      Expect to see these shades all over Instagram. Read More Next
    • What Is a Capsule Wardrobe? 10 Tips to Help You De-Clutter Your Closet

      Fashion designer Misha Nonoo weighs in on the essential items that'll make your 'nothing to wear' days a thing of the past. Read More Next
    • "Maskne" Is a Thing — Here's How to Fight Face Mask Breakouts

      As if stress breakouts weren't bad enough. Read More Next
  • News
  • Fashion

    Fashion

    See All Fashion

    How to Find the Best Color to Wear For Your Skin Tone

    It's not as trickyĀ as you think.
    • Clothing
    • Accessories
    • Street Style
    • Look of the Day
    • Fashion Week
  • Celebrity

    Celebrity

    See All Celebrity

    The 39 Most Naked Dresses of All Time

    Naked dresses are perhaps the most impressive of all red carpet feats. While they may not always make the best-dressed list, they do require a certain breed of celebrity to pull off. Not only do you have to have the balls to risk a wardrobe malfunction, but you have to do it with enough confidence that you look fierce — not terrified — in the photographs. Take Naomi Campbell's appearance in Valentino's couture show during the spring/summer 2019 presentation. The legendary model gracefully strutted down the runway in a see-through gown with a ruffle skirt. (Click through the gallery for the NSFW photo).Ā  Get the inside scoop on all your favorite celebrities with our FREE daily newsletter, InStyle Celebrity. Breaking news, relationship updates, hairstyle inspo, fashion trends, and more direct to your inbox! Let's not forgetĀ Rihanna’s infamous CFDA dress either. The girl rocked a completely sheer dress without a bra — and later remarked that her only regret was not wearing a bedazzled thong to match. That, my friends, is dedication. Then, there was the year 2015, when the Met Gala saw not one nor two but three naked dresses on the red carpet, all worn by Hollywood’s hottest A-listers. Jennifer Lopez, above, bared her famous curves in a custom Atelier Versace illusion gown. BeyoncĆ© was nearly naked in Givenchy. And Kim Kardashian West almost looked modest in comparison in her sheer Roberto Cavalli dress, because no one’s getting naked without KKW joining in. Click through to see the best naked dresses of all time.
    • Awards and Events
    • Celebrity Transformations
    • TV Shows
    • Movies
    • Music
  • Beauty

    Beauty

    See All Beauty

    How to Treat Stubborn Cystic Acne, According to Dermatologists

    If you're struggling with breakouts on your chin and jaw area, read this.
    • Makeup
    • Best Beauty Buys
    • Health & Fitness
    • Skincare
  • Hair

    Hair

    See All Hair

    The 5 Haircut Trends That Will Dominate 2020

    The beginning of the new year comes with the irresistible urgeĀ to start over fresh, which means it's a great time to get a haircut.Ā  ThisĀ decade's first bigĀ hair trends include looks at every length that can be tailored to your hair texture and personal style. For anyone with a blunt bobĀ —Ā theĀ most popular haircut of the past few years — you probably already guessed that the cut willĀ still be going strong into the next decade. But there will be a few tweaks. As seen on Kerry Washington, 2020'sĀ bob has textured, softer edges, and looks amazing whether you part it down the middle or off to the side.Ā  RELATED: The 10 Hairstyles You'll See Everywhere This Winter But if you swear that 2020 isĀ going to be the year you finally grow out your hair, let Jennifer Lopez and Kim Kardashian's extra-long lengths be your inspiration. Or, you can get the look instantly with the help of some clip in extensions.Ā  To help you figure out how to wear your hair in the new year, we've rounded up the five biggest haircut trends of 2020, so you'll be sure of what you want before you head to the salon in January.Ā  VIDEO:Ā The Five Biggest Haircut Trends of 2020
    • Celeb Hairstyles
    • Color Ideas
    • Long Hairstyles
    • Medium Hairstyles
    • Short Hairstyles
    • All Natural
  • Lifestyle

    Lifestyle

    See All Lifestyle

    Your Essential Keto Grocery List

    If you're embarking on the keto diet, here are the must-have items to add to your cart.
    • Astrology
    • Travel
    • Weddings
    • Books
    • Food and Drink
    • Home and Decorating
  • Politics & Social Issues

    Politics & Social Issues

    See All Politics & Social Issues

    Joe Biden Broke Barack Obama's Nationwide Popular Vote Record

    Obama's record goes back to 2008.
    • President Joe Biden
    • Dr. Jill Biden
    • Vice President Kamala Harris
    • Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez
    • Women in Politics
    • Women's Movements
    • Equal Pay
    • Badass Women
    • Motherhood & Parenting
    • Career
    • Charity
    • Choose 2020
  • Pop Culture

    Pop Culture

    See All Pop Culture

    Introducing InStyle's First Podcast: Ladies First with Laura Brown

    Join editor in chief Laura Brown as she talks to trailblazers like Emily Ratajkowski, Michelle Pfeiffer and Storm Reid about their historic "firsts" in the industry.
    • TV Shows
    • Movies
    • Books
    • Music
    • Social Media
    • Ladies First Podcast With Laura Brown
  • How To
  • Shopping

    Shopping

    See All Shopping

    The 13 Best Shapewear Pieces to Shop, According to Thousands of Customer Reviews

    Upgrade your lingerie drawer with these top-rated body shapers.
    • Celebrity Looks
    • Clothing
    • Accessories
    • Beauty
    • Home and Decor
    • Holiday Gift Guides
  • Video
  • In The Mag

Profile Menu

Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
Your Account

Account

  • Join Now / Your Account
  • Newsletter
  • Email Preferences this link opens in a new tab
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Help
  • Logout

More

  • Give a Gift Subscription this link opens in a new tab
Login
Sweepstakes

Follow Us

  1. Home Chevron Right
  2. Fashion Chevron Right
  3. The 14 Prettiest Prom Dresses You Can Buy at Nordstrom — All Under $250

The 14 Prettiest Prom Dresses You Can Buy at Nordstrom — All Under $250

By Rebecca Carhart
Updated Feb 06, 2019 @ 10:30 am
Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
Skip gallery slides
Save Pin
Credit: Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

Prom season is officially upon us and, while the dance will be one of the most unforgettable nights of your life, it can get really expensive. From the tickets to the limo to hair and makeup, the cost to attend prom in the U.S. averages around a whooping $900. With prices this high, you’re probably looking for ways to cut costs without sacrificing on style for the big night.

Thankfully, we found that you don’t have to spend a ton of money on a breathtaking prom dress. That’s because one of our favorite retailers, Nordstrom, has a plethora of affordable prom dresses that are just as stylish as the pricey stuff. There are hundreds of gorgeous options to choose from, including everything from short prom dresses to long prom dresses to even two-piece prom dresses.

Instead of having you sift through them all, we rounded up the prettiest prom dresses the site has to offer. The best part? They all retail for less than $250. Keep reading to see our favorite stylish-yet-affordable prom dresses from Nordstrom — and if you need prom shoes or prom jewelry, the retailer has got you covered too.

Start Slideshow

1 of 14

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Lulu’s Own the Night Strapless Maxi Dress

Credit: Courtesy
$72
SHOP IT

We can’t get over how sleek and sophisticated this strapless gown by Lulu’s is. Not only does it feature a curve-enhancing crossover bodice, but the slinky column skirt has a high slit that allows you to flash a little leg. It’s definitely one of the prettiest prom dresses under $100.

1 of 14

Advertisement
Advertisement

2 of 14

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Morgan & Co Lace Bodice Gown

Credit: Courtesy
$119
SHOP IT

How stylish is this plus-size prom dress from Morgan & Co? The lace bodice gives this floor-length gown a high-fashion upgrade, while the side slit will help you show off your killer shoes.

2 of 14

3 of 14

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Wayf The Mia Lace Trim Front Slit Gown

Credit: Courtesy
$148
SHOP IT

This sweetheart slip dress by Wayf is a timeless silhouette that looks great on different body shapes and sizes. The eyelash lace trim adds a whimsical touch to an otherwise classic gown.

3 of 14

Advertisement

4 of 14

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Alfred Sung Jersey Bodice Trumpet Gown

Credit: Courtesy
$229
SHOP IT

You can never go wrong with a stylish high-neck silhouette, which is why we love this chic Alfred Sung dress so much. The sculpted solid-color gown looks gorgeous enough on its own, but feel free to accessorize with shoulder-grazing earrings or a statement necklace for a show-stopping look.

4 of 14

5 of 14

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Morgan & Co Strappy Lace Bodice Gown

Credit: Courtesy
$129
SHOP IT

Give your prom look dimension with this floral lace bodice gown by Morgan & Co. It looks feminine and sweet from the front, but the skin-baring strappy back gives the dress some (school-appropriate) edge.

5 of 14

6 of 14

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Sequin Hearts Two Piece Off the Shoulder Lace Gown

Credit: Courtesy
$129
SHOP IT

Looking for a two-piece prom dress? Give this floral lace option by Sequin Hearts a try. The lace fabric makes the fashion-forward silhouette feel romantic, while the cropped bodice shows a hint of skin.

6 of 14

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

7 of 14

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

BB Dakota Elise Sequin Body-Con Dress

Credit: Courtesy
$128
SHOP IT

Just because it’s prom doesn’t mean you have to wear a long gown. This party dress by BB Dakota is so stylish, it is sure to turn heads. The shimmering sequins make the long-sleeve silhouette feel fresh and fun. Throw on a pair of platform heels and get ready to dance the night away.

7 of 14

8 of 14

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Vince Camuto Halter Trumpet Gown

Credit: Courtesy
$125 (Originally $208)
SHOP IT

Look red hot on prom night with this fiery gown by Vince Camuto. The figure-flattering silhouette shows off your curves, while the sweeping trumpet skirt adds an elegant touch.

8 of 14

9 of 14

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Morgan & Co Keyhole Back Sequin Gown

Credit: Courtesy
$159
SHOP IT

Ensure all eyes are on you with this high-shine Morgan & Co gown. The figure-flattering dress is covered in sequins for a dazzling effect. We can’t decide if we like the dark green version or the rose gold option more.

9 of 14

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

10 of 14

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Adrianna Papell Ruched Metallic Jersey Gown

Credit: Courtesy
$229
SHOP IT

This stylish metallic gown by Adrianna Papell is one of the best prom dresses for 2019. The classic dress is made of a jersey stretch fabric that will hug your curves and keep you comfortable as you hit the dance floor. Ā 

10 of 14

11 of 14

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Eliza J Off the Shoulder Fit and Flare Cocktail Dress

Credit: Courtesy
$ $119 (Originally $198)
SHOP IT

Looking for an elegant short prom dress? We love this option by Eliza J. The lace off-the-shoulder bodice adds a stylish retro touch to the pretty fit and flare skirt.

11 of 14

12 of 14

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Dress The Population Tessa Crepe Mermaid Dress

Credit: Courtesy
$216
SHOP IT

Show off your curves in this fitted mermaid prom dress from Dress The Population. The halter neckline with cutaway shoulders put a fresh spin on this timeless dress, while the midi-length allows your shoes to take center stage. Ā 

12 of 14

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

13 of 14

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Morgan & Co Beaded Mesh Halter Gown

Credit: Courtesy
$139
SHOP IT

We’re obsessed with this embellished cutout gown by Morgan & Co. The sparkling crystal details around the waist will help catch the light, while the cutouts and side slit allow you to show a little skin. Ā 

13 of 14

14 of 14

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

Eliza J Strapless Midi Dress

Credit: Courtesy
$228
SHOP IT

If you want to look like a princess on prom night, look no further than this strapless midi gown by Eliza J. The classic sweetheart neckline and twinkling ombre sequins are so pretty, wearing this dress will make you feel like you are in a fairy tale.

14 of 14

Replay gallery

Share the Gallery

Pinterest Facebook

Up Next

By Rebecca Carhart

Share the Gallery

Pinterest Facebook
Trending Videos
Advertisement
Skip slide summaries

Everything in This Slideshow

Advertisement

View All

1 of 14 Lulu’s Own the Night Strapless Maxi Dress
2 of 14 Morgan & Co Lace Bodice Gown
3 of 14 Wayf The Mia Lace Trim Front Slit Gown
4 of 14 Alfred Sung Jersey Bodice Trumpet Gown
5 of 14 Morgan & Co Strappy Lace Bodice Gown
6 of 14 Sequin Hearts Two Piece Off the Shoulder Lace Gown
7 of 14 BB Dakota Elise Sequin Body-Con Dress
8 of 14 Vince Camuto Halter Trumpet Gown
9 of 14 Morgan & Co Keyhole Back Sequin Gown
10 of 14 Adrianna Papell Ruched Metallic Jersey Gown
11 of 14 Eliza J Off the Shoulder Fit and Flare Cocktail Dress
12 of 14 Dress The Population Tessa Crepe Mermaid Dress
13 of 14 Morgan & Co Beaded Mesh Halter Gown
14 of 14 Eliza J Strapless Midi Dress

Share options

Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message
InStyle InStyle

Magazines & More

Learn More

  • Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
  • Contact Us
  • Advertise
  • Accolades Licensing
  • Content Licensing
  • Sitemap

Connect

Follow Us
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
Other Meredith Sites

Other Meredith Sites

  • 4 Your Health this link opens in a new tab
  • Allrecipes this link opens in a new tab
  • All People Quilt this link opens in a new tab
  • Better Homes & Gardens this link opens in a new tab
  • Bizrate Insights this link opens in a new tab
  • Bizrate Surveys this link opens in a new tab
  • Cooking Light this link opens in a new tab
  • Daily Paws this link opens in a new tab
  • EatingWell this link opens in a new tab
  • Eat This, Not That this link opens in a new tab
  • Entertainment Weekly this link opens in a new tab
  • Food & Wine this link opens in a new tab
  • Health this link opens in a new tab
  • Hello Giggles this link opens in a new tab
  • Martha Stewart this link opens in a new tab
  • Midwest Living this link opens in a new tab
  • More this link opens in a new tab
  • MyRecipes this link opens in a new tab
  • MyWedding this link opens in a new tab
  • My Food and Family this link opens in a new tab
  • MyLife this link opens in a new tab
  • Parenting this link opens in a new tab
  • Parents this link opens in a new tab
  • People this link opens in a new tab
  • People en EspaƱol this link opens in a new tab
  • Rachael Ray Magazine this link opens in a new tab
  • Real Simple this link opens in a new tab
  • Ser Padres this link opens in a new tab
  • Shape this link opens in a new tab
  • Siempre Mujer this link opens in a new tab
  • Southern Living this link opens in a new tab
  • SwearBy this link opens in a new tab
  • Travel & Leisure this link opens in a new tab
InStyle is part of the Meredith Beauty Group. © Copyright 2021 Meredith Corporation. All Rights Reserved. InStyle may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. Offers may be subject to change without notice. Privacy Policythis link opens in a new tab Terms of Servicethis link opens in a new tab Ad Choicesthis link opens in a new tab California Do Not Sellthis link opens a modal window Web Accessibilitythis link opens in a new tab
© Copyright . All rights reserved. Printed from https://www.instyle.com

View image

The 14 Prettiest Prom Dresses You Can Buy at Nordstrom — All Under $250
this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines.