The Prom Trend Report: What Gen Z Is Already Asking For
Inside the Prom Group Chat: What They’re Already Planning
Word on the street is: Gen Z isn’t waiting until January to start the prom dress hunt. And lucky for you, Poppy’s got people (yes, plural) on the inside. That’s right, our community of prom store owners is already hearing buzz about what your prom queen competitors are dying to wear this prom season.
With National Bridal Market just ahead, it’s officially buying season. Not sure if you’re in the know? If you have to ask, the answer’s probably no. So take notes my friend because we’re spilling all the secrets.
8 Trends Your Prom Goers Will Be Trying On This Prom Season
Trend #1: Bold Colors Are In, Pastels Are Out (For Now)
Neon pink, lime green, electric blue, striking red, and shiny metallics—you heard it here first, colors that make a statement are back. Barbiecore is still lingering in the TikTok world, and the goal of mimicking the look of the iconic fashion doll is very much still there, especially when there’s an excuse to dress up. Although, rumor has it that emerald green and black still hold strong as timeless go-tos.
Trend #2: High-Slit and Corset Gowns Are Queen
Sabrina Carpenter is to thank for this one—shorter hemlines, sparkle, and curve-hugging silhouettes. Gen Z prom attendees are all about showing off their best features with a red-carpet-esque attitude. Whether it’s a high leg slit or a visible corset bodice, they’re on the lookout for bold yet classy gown elements.
Trend #3: Detachable & Convertible Elements
Who doesn’t love a good two-in-one look? Versatility, am I right? This traditional bridal trend is bleeding into the prom world this season—think overskirts, capes, gloves, detachable sleeves and straps. Convertible elements only up the resale potential and rewearability, meaning moms are all about this trend too.
Trend #4: Unique Textures > Basic Satin
Satin is so last season—bring on the unique textures and intentional fabric movement. Shoppers are asking “What haven’t I seen before?”. Social media is pushing this trend big time with texture focused try-ons. You’re going to want to make sure your boutique is stocked with stand out gowns. If it has feathers, ruching, sequins, or 3D florals, it needs to have a mannequin moment or window spotlight.
Trend #5: Customization Requests Are Skyrocketing
Gen Z has made it obvious that they are not a cookie-cutter generation. They are here to promote individuality and confidence. In the past, prom gowns have been ordered in different colors and sizes, but that’s about as far as customizations went for most boutiques. This season, prom goers are asking for more options than ever — “Can it have this added?” or “Can this be removed?”. Boutiques with on-site alterations or custom ordering are here for this trend. The goal is no longer simply to find a pretty dress; it’s shifted to finding something that “feels like me”.
Trend #6: Matching Moments for Groups & Couples
Color coordination, you’ve heard of her, but she’s making a new name for herself—prom goers have a “same but different” mentality this season, and it’s not just for couples. The latest trend is group matching moments, of course this is mainly for prime photo ops. At this rate, prom is just a dress rehearsal for their future wedding day—group chats, color palettes, and all. But are you thinking what I’m thinking? Opportunities to upsell! If they want to make prom big, help them by pairing ties, jewelry, clutches, shoes, etc. with their gown. The focus is shifting from prom dress to prom look.
Trend #7: Gen Z Cares About Sustainability (Yes, Even for Prom)
New isn’t always better in the eyes of this generation. Prom attendees are open to and even requesting secondhand, rewearable, and ethically made dresses. It’s to your benefit to lean into this trend with transparency and offer resale options—you can do this by showcasing a “pre-loved” rack, giving a sustainable designer shoutout in-store, or even giving back to your local community or environment with a portion of your prom sales.
Trend #8: Shopping Earlier Than Ever
Maybe it’s the extra time needed for custom tweaks or the social media FOMO pressure, but one thing’s for sure: the prom shopping timeline isn’t what it used to be. Shoppers are now popping into boutiques mid fall to start the search for spring prom. Be prepared to make your virtual and physical prom debuts earlier than planned.
Gen Z knows what they want—and they’re not waiting to ask for it. The prom boutiques that listen now will be the ones selling out later. You’ve got this!
Let Poppy simplify your prom season prep—from inventory tracking to customer messages—all in one place. Book a demo or start here with our Get Started form.
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