Homecoming Dresses for Teens | Do Say Give

Today we’re sharing six tips for finding a homecoming dress that mom and daughter both like, plus a helpful brand list for getting started on your search. Finding a dress does not have to be stressful because we have done the work for you. Scroll down to see some darling homecoming dresses your daughters (and you) will love.

Keep reading and scrolling to get ready for HOCO but first: don’t forget to go over all the manners and social skills girls need to know for homecoming. We outlined them all in our new EBook for Teen Girls!

1. Be patient!

Start early and give yourselves plenty of time!It takes a lot of trying on to find the right dress. Consider ordering several dresses and doing a dressing room try-on at home, then send back what doesn’t work. Many retailers offer free shipping and returns which makes this easier.

2. Measure!

Measure your daughter’s height, bust, etc. and look at the measurements online and use that as a guide as you look online. Some retailers like Revolve will give sizing details like the length from shoulder seam to hem which is helpful. will give the model’s height and normal size so you can use that as a guide as well.

Tip: Sometimes the dresses seem too short online but the models are really tall, so just keep that in mind as you shop!

3. Alter!

Get creative, moms. Order a long dress and have it cut off. Order a bigger size and have it taken in. Sometimes that’s necessary to get the appropriate length or coverage. Also, take the dress to the tailor in plenty of time for the dance to make sure the alterations are correct. Sometimes you need to send back a second time.

4. Teach!

Use this is a teaching opportunity to show your daughter how to find things that flatter her body type. Just because something looks good on a friend (or a model) doesn’t mean it’s right for her. Show and teach her that you can be stylish but still dress in an age-appropriate manner. In the process, find the brands that fit her well that you can come back to again and again.

5. Borrow!

Well-fitting dresses are often from the more expensive brands. But instead of splurging for every dance think about borrowing. The styles haven’t changed too much in recent years, so ask friends and family with older daughters if they have a dress that might work for your daughter. But be sure to know the etiquette of borrowing. And be sure to offer your daughter’s dresses in future years.

6. Practice!

Girls don’t want to worry all night if their is strap is going to fall or down or their dress is going to rip because it’s too tight. So when trying on dresses have her practice walking, sitting and standing in the dress (with heels!).

Be sure to see our full list of dress brands at the bottom of the post but to help you get started here are some 2023 homecoming dresses we love!