40+ Iconic Prom Dresses From TV & Movies That Makes Us Nostalgic
These jaw-dropping dresses were made by designers on sets of films including A Cinderella Story and Pretty Little Liars, which transformed the fashion industry. These famous dresses offer each year’s prom attendees a glimpse into the timeless designs that characterized the 1970s to the 2000s. Check out some of our favorite dresses below, from the two pieces that ruled hearts in the 1990s to the puffy sleeves of the 1970s!
Carrie in “Carrie”
Carrie’s attire in the film is definitely childish and purposefully unattractive and out of style. But when she showed up for prom, she was picture-perfect in a peach-pink silk slip. Carrie was brave enough to follow her convictions despite her mother’s adamant opposition and suggestion that they burn it as a symbol of atonement.
Carrie In “Carrie”
Spoiler alert: The remainder of the prom is revealed. It is unsettling how her mother’s words, “I might’ve known it would be red,” reverberate throughout the scene. The outfit was pure perfection, but pig blood destroyed it.
Bianca in “10 Things I Hate About You”
The stylish, ladylike Bianca donned a tulle skirt with a dusty pink satin crop top. Her decision successfully captured her personality in a dress, much to her father’s dismay. Even the tiniest glimmer of a belly button was visible.
Bianca In “10 Things I Hate About You”
The pink and white rhinestone neckpiece and the iconic curly updo from the ’90s complemented the look. Given that it is an explosion of pink and fluff, most other characters would have a hard time wearing this attire. not for Bianca, though.
Rachel in “Glee”
Rachel Berry, wearing a peach mermaid dress, was prom queen. It’s understandable why William McKinley High named her prom queen. Starting with the delicate hue that complemented her features and ending with the dress’s shape that fit her perfectly.
Rachel In “Glee”
The tulle at the bottom isn’t too garish or out of character with the theme, and the sweetheart neckline looks really adorable on her. She added a corsage and a little set of dangly earrings to finish the ensemble. Perfection!
Sandy in “Grease”
Dresses for prom will come and go. There will be many leading ladies that come and go from the film, but few will stick in our memories like Sandy from Grease. What a classic!
Sandy In “Grease”
She was dressed in a pale yellow A-line dress to let her personality shine rather than something too tight or poofy. With enough tulle underneath, the cut was just below the knee. With that tiny flower perched at the edge of her hip, the belt completely stole the show.
Serena in “Gossip Girl”
Every day, Serena gets dressed as if she’s getting ready for the prom. On the big day, she went all out in dazzling accessories, a stunning dress, and sky-high shoes. She was dressed in a $19,000 halter Christian Dior Spring 2009 gown.
Serena In “Gossip Girl”
With its distinctive pink crystals and silver embroidery, the rose gown adds a touch of fun to her beauty. Serena’s long, loose curls looked stunning against the flowing skirt of the gown. If it weren’t effortless and beautiful at the same time, Serena wouldn’t be Serena.
Kim in “Prom Night”
Although the movie’s plot didn’t allow us to concentrate on the dress for very long, we still think of it whenever prom comes to mind. How can Kim still seem so stunning when a ruthless assassin is determined to end lives?
Kim In “Prom Night”
Jamie Lee Curtis’s character impressed in a delicate pink frock that was charming, tranquil beauty before the students were pleading for their lives. Like nothing else, the enormous, curly hair shouts the 1970s. It was even better when she danced.
Andie in “Pretty in Pink”
DIY enthusiasts will like Andie’s outfit from Pretty in Pink. If they didn’t have insane abilities, not many high school students would have the guts to attend such a significant event in a self-made gown!
Andie In “Pretty In Pink”
Andie Walsh looks stunning in this pink dress with a cold-shoulder bodice and a collar neck (did you catch what we did there?). She probably attracted a lot of attention due to the sparkling polka dots all over and the loose fit, which were both quite popular at the time.
Alison in “Pretty Little Liars
Rosewood High School is adept at prom attire! Every student could have appeared on the front cover of a magazine since they were all so stylish. Alison, however, stole the show in a gown that appeared to be greatly influenced by Belle from Beauty and the Beast.
Alison In “Pretty Little Liars
The bright yellow dress included an A-line tulle skirt and a thick satin belt, as well as a top with rich floral-patterned rhinestone decorations. The look was topped with the classic red lip. Stunning!
Romy and Michele in “Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion”
This enduring comedy turned 24 this April, yet the ’90s aesthetic is still very much in style. The millennial generation’s undisputed fashion icons are Romy and Michele. Mona May, the designer, wanted the outfits to highlight the girls’ individuality. Low-cut, empire-waisted, sparkly, and completely beautiful; all made of spandex.
Romy And Michele In “Romy And Michele’s High School Reunion”
The clunky heels and feather accents are classic ’90s elements. While avoiding the more commonplace, uninspiring trends like flannel, Mona managed to incorporate all the best styles of the time. As a result, Romy and Michele are remembered in the annals of fashion.
Laney in “She’s All That”
Even though Laney’s prom night didn’t turn out the way she had hoped, it was still a pivotal milestone in her life. For her, the night wasn’t just another night; it was a huge one! Recall the whole “take off the glass and the girl is hot reveal”?
Laney In “She’s All That”
Despite the fact that we don’t believe that a female miraculously becomes attractive when her glasses are removed (come on, they’re only trying to see!), Laney won our affection. Her small frame was emphasized by the straightforward black spaghetti strap dress. She appeared stunning in a sleek ponytail and minimal makeup.
Gabriella in “High School Musical 3: Senior Year”
Gabriella was portrayed as the sweet girl next door in every High School Musical wardrobe, so her prom dress had to live up to that reputation. She didn’t let us down; wearing the cutest little chiffon dress, she exuded major Cottagecore vibes.
Gabriella In “High School Musical 3 Senior Year”
Completed with appliqué flowers, the garment was at its finest mid-twirl. This outfit is perfect for a contemporary Disney princess. She finished the outfit with beach curls, a boutonniere, and the iconic headband from the 2000s.
Kat in “10 Things I Hate About You”
While Kat, Bianca’s older sister, wore a far more mature and elegant outfit for their prom night, Bianca arrived in a pretty-in-pink outfit. Everyone can agree that Kat Stratford was built for the elegant yet understated navy slip dress.
Kat In “10 Things I Hate About You”
She completed the outfit with a pearl necklace, stiletto heels, and piled-on curls. The lightweight scarf was a smart complement to the ensemble. This dress is the epitome of a classic prom gown that has withstood the test of time. Even now, it’s a fairly common option for prom attire.
Marissa in “The O.C.”
Marissa Cooper is that one untouchable senior who was always prepared to take off. From the very first episode of the show, the girl was a walking, talking Chanel wardrobe. So it comes as no surprise that she went in a fancy gown for her prom.
Marissa In “The O.C.”
Cooper’s dress has aged nicely in the more than ten years since the notorious youngsters of Newport Beach attended prom. Some people might find the layers of ruffles and the enormous bow to be excessive, but that was what she was all about.
Buffy in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer”
Being Buffy Summers, there is never a dull moment. Although we don’t know if she expected a typical prom like the majority of teenagers, she was certainly dressed for the occasion (or not). The most stunning strapless taffeta gown was being worn by the young slayer as she battled a band of hellhounds.
Buffy In “Buffy The Vampire Slayer”
The dress was the coolest shine, with a semi-sweetheart neckline. Buffy opted to keep things straightforward with a carefree hairstyle and minimal to no jewelry.
Mercedes in “Glee”
We anticipated that the Glee adolescents would bring out the major guns for prom night because they are known for their extravagant performances. But in reality, Mercedes Jones was the night’s true queen. Mercedes performed her heart out while dancing and singing in her multi-tiered fuchsia gown that shone like a million suns.
Mercedes In “Glee”
Her figure was perfectly highlighted by the sweetheart neckline and tulle skirt. She merely added a straightforward corsage and little dangly earrings because her dress was already a focal point.
Lorraine in “Back to the Future”
Few individuals can say they were there when their mother left her room wearing her prom dress, but Marty McFly most certainly can. His mother, Lorraine, was all dressed up in a typical 1950s dress with an A-line silhouette and a basic polka dot pattern.
Lorraine In “Back To The Future”
The numerous layers of the skirt gave the dress more volume and loudness. It was enormous and gorgeous during her dance, which was also due to the design. Additionally, she seems young and adorable thanks to the sweetheart neckline and the bouffant hairstyle.
Summer in “The O.C.”
True to her name, Summer always had her beach clothes on and was prepared to hit the sand. She rarely deviated from her distinctive look, and the way she arrived for prom was a little more traditional.
Summer In “The O.C.”
She did, however, revive the flowy maxi dress with her prom attire. The strapless, transparent maxi dress had a fuchsia design. In addition, the crown looked just bomb. In the early 2000s, prom-goers looked up to Summer as she posed with her date.
Ariel in “Footloose”
The prom dance is the only thing that could rival Ariel’s gorgeous column dress. Ariel’s choice, the finest shade of bubblegum pink, was a little subdued for the opulent conclusion.
Ariel In “Footloose”
The thin pearl necklace, the flowy sleeves, and the beautifully curled updo are just a few of the exquisite aspects of this dress, which is so well-known that Julianne Hough chose to have it featured in the 2011 version.
Regina in “Mean Girls”
Even getting hit by a bus couldn’t keep Regina George from going to her prom. She might have won the title of Prom Queen just by virtue of her tenacity. Since the strapless pink tiny dress was only available in size five and she struggled with it mid-movie, we can only assume she quickly lost a few pounds!
Regina In “Mean Girls”
The flower decorations around the back and head were artfully positioned to make her appear more feminine despite the braces keeping her body from collapsing. Regina, go!
DJ Tanner in “Full House”
For the series finale, DJ Tanner’s ex-boyfriend Steve made a surprise appearance, and it was all very romantic. Our very own San Franciscan attended her prom in the previous season up the Californian coast. She chose a black dress with puffy sleeves and an off-the-shoulder design that was still in style today. The knee-length and plunging neckline were excellent choices.
DJ Tanner In “Full House”
Tanner completed the ensemble by donning a pair of black stockings. She wore her long, thick cascading hair loose the entire time, keeping it simple yet elegant.
Spencer in “Pretty Little Liars”
Spencer’s fit and flare gown takes the cake as our personal favorite, despite the fact that the prom episode of Pretty Little Liars gave rise to some of the most memorable prom dresses.
Spencer In “Pretty Little Liars”
This outfit was flawless, down to the wrap, the velvet material, the gorgeous emerald tones, and the way she pulled it off. It was a piece from the Walter Collection, called the Nora gown. Another excellent accent was the pair of gold bangles she was sporting to contrast the colors.
Alex in “Modern Family”
A few years after completing her high school education, Alex Dunphy attended to prom with Reuben, her younger brother’s buddy. Reuben was known to have had a crushing crush on the smartass for years, so the premise was funny.
Alex In “Modern Family”
Alex decides to go along despite not particularly liking the geeky teen. For her grey A-line tulle dress with the sweetheart neckline, she merits further benefits. The eldest member of the Dunphy family, Haley, might believe that her sister’s wardrobe requires assistance, but this gown shows differently.
Josie in “Never Been Kissed”
Josie Grossie may not have attended the prom that every high school student hopes to attend, but she looked the part. Remember, the subject was “Meant for Each Other: Famous Couples Throughout History,” and Rosalind, a character from one of Shakespeare’s well-known plays, “As You Like It,” served as the inspiration for the Shakespeare-inspired attire.
Josie In “Never Been Kissed”
She won the Prom Queen title a second time while posing as a 25-year-old reporter. How shall we put it? It goes without saying what the bell sleeves, princess silhouette, and flurry of gold and pink are.
Lily in “How I Met Your Mother”
The pair wasn’t technically attending the high school prom; yet, it still counts. After all, we’re talking about Marshmallow and Lilypad, the self-described cheesy couple that everyone secretly supports despite being disgusted by them on the outside.
Lily In “How I Met Your Mother”
Lily is known for her immaculate sense of style, which unfortunately led to her having a lot of credit card issues. However, the money was wisely spent if it was used to purchase a garment with a cheetah print.
Penny in “The Big Bang Theory”
It’s understandable why Leonard and Penny’s love tale has become legendary in TV history. Just take a look at the charming photo taken during the cast’s season eight recreation of a prom. Penny, being who she is, admitted that she went to an astounding seven proms.
Penny In “The Big Bang Theory”
She wore the v-neck chiffon peplum gown to the prom at her own high school and it was a vivid shade of red. With a thin gold headband and a couple of sparkling earrings, she kept the appearance simple.
Stifler’s Mom in “American Pie”
Stifler’s mother drew our attention at the prom after-party; she was a seductress in every way. It is claimed that she is “chaperoning,” yet her attire suggested otherwise. The light sheath dress perfectly captures her “hot mom” persona and screams the 1990s.
Stifler’s Mom In “American Pie”
For the whole femme fatale appearance, she was also seen throwing a grey vest over her shoulders. The ideal nude to brown lipstick, a pair of black heels, a little necklace, and earrings completed the look.
Brenda in “Beverly Hills, 90210”
Beverly Hills, 90210 did a good job of encapsulating teen television in the 1990s. Brenda Walsh, who was played by Shannen Doherty, chose a period-appropriate B&W outfit completed with an oversized bow for the “Spring Dance,” the show’s generic take on prom.
Brenda In “Beverly Hills, 90210”
We adored her formal updo and the way that her fringe kept it airy and light. She accessorized with a pearl necklace and a matching pair of pearl stud earrings. Another 90210 cast member, Kelly Taylor, also wore the dress because it was so popular.
Hanna in “Pretty Little Liars”
Pretty Little Liars’ troublemaking teenagers showed excellent dress sense. Hanna’s selection for their prom served as a reminder of how crucial it is to express your individual taste. This sequined bodice gown with a v-neck and a high-low tulle skirt was her favorite outfit for the evening.
Hanna In “Pretty Little Liars”
Hanna continued to stand out by choosing these cream knee-high laced boots rather than the more traditional stilettos or heels. Hanna was determined to win everyone over with her braided bun and smoky eye.
Jackie in “That ’70s Show”
Jackie’s prom gown from That ’70s Show would be the dress that best embodied the decade of the 1970s. The purple dress had chiffon ruffles and an illusion neckline, and it was either a hit or a miss.
Jackie In “That ’70s Show”
We adored it mostly because of the adorable teen Jackie’s ability to pull it off. She was the most attractive girl next door with her curled updo and pretty pink lipstick. The fact that the gloves and enormous corsage may seem excessive is one of the look’s numerous appeals.
Rachel in “Friends”
Throughout the entire show, Rachel is without a doubt the fashion expert; she is the one that everyone turns to for tips on how to look their best. It’s hard to see Rachel, a Ralph Lauren employee, attending her prom in such flamboyant attire, but what can we say—it was the 1980s.
Rachel In “Friends”
Georgette and chiffon fabrics, as well as voluminous sleeves, were hallmarks of this era. We see Rachel’s true nose and her blue off-the-shoulder princess ball gown as the pals play a VHS film from her and Monica’s prom.
April in “Parks and Recreation”
Prom was not one of the situations when April Ludgate flourished. She nevertheless attended in a long-sleeved, out-of-the-ordinary prom dress made of black lace. The inner layer of the gown was violet and muted gold, with a lacey coat that fastened at the waist and layered down the sides.
April In “Parks And Recreation”
She ought to have won the prom that night just based on that. She complimented the dress’ strong medieval gothic vibes with a statement headpiece and black lace gloves.
Joey in “Dawson’s Creek”
This season, the straightforward prom attire from the 1990s is returning, and we are beyond thrilled. It was a time of silk garments, bland cosmetics, and solid hues. We all wish we had a tiny black dress like Joey’s with spaghetti straps.
Joey In “Dawson’s Creek”
A traditional French-twist updo and vibrant red lips elevated the appearance. Joey chose to keep it simple with a pearl bracelet and tiny glittering earrings rather than use this occasion to go overboard with the accessories.
Courtney in “Jawbreaker”
Given all the little intricacies, it’s not surprising that the protagonist’s relationship with this clothing changed over time. We adore the way Courtney chose to embrace her inner cosmic galaxy queen with this ensemble. This isn’t really a full gown; it more closely resembles a long tube top with a sheer overlay.
Courtney In “Jawbreaker”
Courtney incorporated the trend for glitzy accessories that became popular in the 1990s into her outfit by pairing a silver wrap with the same color makeup, a tiara, and stiletto pumps.
Bella in “Twilight”
Let’s be honest. Bella wasn’t known for her sense of style. Her casual, carefree fashion demonstrates that she spent more time with mythological beings than in her closet. No tea, no shade, but her prom dress was a novel departure from what she usually wore.
Bella In “Twilight”
The extravagant halter-neck dress was tucked into a daringly unique embroidered cardigan. Without her iconic Converse shoes, she would not be Bella Swan. Amazing gem tones are also present.
Aria in “Pretty Little Liars”
There is just one way to describe Aria’s fashion: eccentric, fun, and new. The girl arrived at prom wearing a striking two-piece and antique jewelry. The middle of the royal blue halter neck top featured floral imprints, with a thin black border around it.
Aria In “Pretty Little Liars”
She wore that with a floor-length floral skirt that was even more vibrantly colored and a thick blue belt. She completed the ensemble with a rose-adorned headband that was similarly thick. With that much color, you could hardly miss her!
Sharpay in “High School Musical 3: Senior Year”
Everyone is aware that Sharpay Evans, her brother Ryan, and a lot of vibrant pinks are present everywhere they are. It came as no surprise that our beloved-mean-girl wore a pink outfit to prom night since she almost trademarked fuchsia pink.
Sharpay In “High School Musical 3: Senior Year”
We also appreciate how she enhanced the appearance with a sleek updo and matching long pink gloves. Naturally, a Sharpay-appropriate outfit wouldn’t be complete without some bling; just look at the enormous diamond on her finger!
Caroline in “The Vampire Diaries”
It’s simple to write off Caroline’s prom outfit as garish and excessive, but the styling and accents turn the girl into an attractive enchantress. The lovely fit and flare in beige with a sweetheart neckline.
Caroline In “The Vampire Diaries”
The garment was decorated in sequins, beads, and crystals from the bodice to the knees. We both agree that if the beading reached the floor, it would be too much to take in, but at one point, it bursts out from the center, revealing the tulle beneath. She accessorized the dress with a basic necklace and a tidy bun.
Blair in “Gossip Girl”
There’s little doubt that the Upper East Siders’ prom will be a lavish event, as Blair Waldorf’s black and gold dress attests to. The stunning outfit is from the Marchesa Spring 2008 collection.
Blair In “Gossip Girl”
This unique couture garment was created with silk tulle fabric and gold appliques. Given that this clothing was never made available to the general public, it is absurd to think that Queen Bee would accept anything less. You’ll understand why she is untouchable once you add the crown to the ensemble.
Emily in “Pretty Little Liars”
Each of the girls’ clothes was carefully chosen by the show’s costume designers, and we especially love Emily’s. It isn’t flashy or extravagant, but it is elegant, refined, and seductive—three adjectives that perfectly capture Emily’s personality.
Emily In “Pretty Little Liars”
Emily wore a deep V-neck dress with black and silver accents from the Michael Costello Fall 2015 line. She appeared even taller and thinner due to the shoulder pads, long sleeves, and mermaid silhouette. Without a little smokey eye and the finest black tiara, how could she finish the look?
Betty in “Riverdale”
Betty never set the “trend”; instead, with her unassuming yet endearing personality, she always blended in with the lockers. The nice girl next door’s transformation into a princess from another land at prom from an ordinary high school student wearing sneakers was a proud moment.
Betty In “Riverdale”
Betty looked stunning in a satin dress and dressed her hair in a side sweep with tiny rhinestone clips placed along the corners. We adore her pick of a greyish-purple tint because it is so aesthetically pleasing. Additionally, the high-low skirt and off-the-shoulder style were enhancing her physique beautifully.
Elena in “The Vampire Diaries”
Elena, played by Nina Dobrev, looks stunning in anything other than the typical sparkles and sheen. We nearly pardoned her for stealing it from Rebecca because it is so stylish and elegant.
Elena In “The Vampire Diaries”
The fuchsia-printed dress had an A-line silhouette and a sweetheart neckline. The stylist for the show gave this one some care, as evidenced by how perfectly the dress matches her olive skin and brown hair.
Silver in “90210”
Both the initial series and the more recent one from 2008 had to be included. Here, you can see how completely princess-like our season one tomgirl Erin Silver looks. Despite being the last character in the program that one would anticipate to look so feminine, it works for her.
Silver In “90210”
We adore the way the pink dress hugs her little waist before poofing out in all its tulle and magnificence. For some people, Silver’s too-cool-for-school mentality can be an overload thanks to the sparkles on the outfit and the bling jewelry she is wearing.
Cheryl in “Riverdale”
Red would also be our go-to color if we looked so nice in it. Cheryl is aware of what suits her. Cheryl radiates her brightest in the sexy side slit and cherry red color.
Cheryl In “Riverdale”
The sheath shape on the chiffon fabric works beautifully with the plunging v-neck. She had her boldest red lipstick on, as promised, and her hair was pulled back in a neat ponytail. She strode along the hallways like the diva she is while holding her handbag in one hand.
Hermione in “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire”
Although Hogwarts referred to it as a “Yule Ball” rather than a prom, we would like to think that it was in some way a prom. In the most magnificent pink ruffled tier gown that is undeniably Hermione, Hermione went all out for the gala.
Hermione In “Harry Potter And The Goblet Of Fire”
The dress, which has chiffon sleeves with a v-neckline and wraps around the bodice, is actually very challenging to pull off. Even the waist had a thin eggplant belt. She had a plaited bun on her hair, with a few strands curled to the side.
Samantha in “A Cinderella Story”
If you’re going to wear a princess gown to your prom, you might as well go about it the Sam Montgomery way, which is the proper way. This dress has become known for its endless layers of fluffy tulle, sparkling bodice with lace, classic sweetheart neckline, and clean white color throughout Hollywood prom history.
Samantha In “A Cinderella Story”
Having said that, we are still baffled as to how Austin failed to recognize her despite the fact that she was wearing the slightest mask. Well, they worked out anyways, so congratulations to them!