A few years ago, my teen daughter and I shopped for the first time for a semi-formal dress for her 8th grade banquet. Other than a small alteration, it was a stress-free experience that we both enjoyed. I’m biased, but I think she was the most beautiful girl at the banquet. Now that she’s in high school, it seems like we are always on the hunt for a nice dress for an event. Homecoming, Sadie’s, prom, etc. As soon as one formal event is over, it’s time to start thinking about the next one!
I wasn’t necessarily ready for all of the dress shopping, date/dinner reservation drama, and the after party theme (which is another planned outfit event on its own around here). We’ve done our fair share of shopping around and have some local and online stores to share with you. So, whether it’s homecoming, prom, winter formal, Sadie’s, or a wedding–your daughter will have plenty of options for finding beautiful, teen formal dresses in Birmingham!
Local Stores
South
200 Summit Blvd, Birmingham
Bella’s Bridal and Formal
3789 Riverchase Village #800, Hoover
Glitz and Gowns
225 Kent Stone Blvd, Alabaster
The Clothes Tree
2880 Old Rocky Ridge Road, Vestavia
Von Maur
2400 Galleria Circle, Hoover
Fit for a Crown Pageant and Prom
300 Main Street, Trussville
Local Consignment Shops
2nd Hand Rose
4200 Oakview Lane, Vestavia
Clotheshorse
2512 Rocky Ridge Road Suite 104, Vestavia
You might also snag a good deal on a formal dress at TJMaxx in Hoover or Marshall’s on 280!
Online
If you have time for shipping and potential returns, you will have a huge variety of dresses to choose from in the online spaces. We’ve had success at Lulu’s and Hello Molly.
Other Things to Consider:
- Shop Amazon for inexpensive options for shoes and jewelry.
- Spray tans, manicures, and pedicures, oh my! I usually let my daughter choose one. These events can get very pricey!
- Go ahead and ask around on your neighborhood Facebook groups for suggestions for alterations. As soon as your daughter has her dress, have her try it on to see if alterations are needed, and don’t delay! Alteration businesses can have a long turn around time.
- Check the store’s return policy before you buy a dress.
- Don’t forget to order the boutonniere if your daughter has a date!
- Does your daughter need a hair or makeup appointment for the day of the event? Book ASAP!
- Conversations to have with your daughter prior to the event–Who is buying the event ticket? Who is buying dinner? Who is driving?
- After party—it’s a whole event by itself. Ask your daughter for contact information for the parents that are hosting. Don’t be afraid to reach out if you don’t know the parents so you can know their approach to underage drinking, phones, social media, curfews, etc.
