Half the best stores on Buford Highway are tucked into the big plazas rather than facing the road, and Flower's Dress Boutique fits that pattern. The shop is on the second floor of the Global Forum Shopping Center in Doraville, and its site describes an Atlanta prom dress store with online shopping. Prom is the headline here, with formal and gala dresses alongside it.
The racks lean toward glamour. The store talks about ball gowns, sleek modern cuts and heavy beadwork, and its online catalog adds homecoming dresses, short party dresses, a plus-size collection and a "Luxe for Less" section for shoppers watching the budget. Quinceañera moms get their own collection too. Crowns, earrings and necklace sets round out the accessories, so a crown or earrings can go home in the same bag as the gown.
How the in-store side works during prom season
You do not need an appointment. The store's FAQ says no appointment is necessary, and it asks shoppers to read its in-store policies before coming in. Read them, because prom season changes how the boutique runs. Its In-Store Shopping page lays out the calendar:
Prom season is from January to May. We ask anyone shopping for bridesmaids to shop online as we do not have bridesmaids dresses in store during this period.
During those months the shop works on a first come, first served basis, and once it reaches capacity it starts a waiting list so the floor does not get overcrowded. The same rules cover who comes along, and the boutique adds a tip on timing.
For a prom-season visit
- Come with a parent
- Keep the party small
- Pick a weekday if you want to skip busy weekends
If your dance is in April, take the weekday visit seriously.
A few more things to know, from the store's policies and size guide.
Sales and deposits
All sales are final, and dress deposits are non-refundable.
Website styles
Not every one is in the store, so phone about a particular dress before coming in.
Pricing
In-store prices can differ from online prices.
Afterpay
Online orders can be split into installments.
Sizing
Most dresses run small, so size up and plan for alterations to get the fit right.
Doraville, Chamblee and the Gwinnett line
Buford Highway runs straight through Doraville and Chamblee, so the boutique is an easy trip for students from Cross Keys High School, Chamblee High School, Dunwoody High School and Lakeside High School in DeKalb County. Just up the road in Gwinnett, Norcross High School and Meadowcreek High School families are close by as well. Because Flower's also sells online, girls from across metro Atlanta and north Georgia can browse the catalog first and then come in to try the styles that are on the floor.
For a family that likes to make an afternoon of Buford Highway, a stop at Global Forum fits right in. Just plan around the prom-season rules.
Flower's FAQ
Do Flower's dresses run true to size?
Most run small, according to the store's size guide, so it suggests sizing up and planning for alterations.
Can I shop for prom without a parent?
No. The store's in-store policy says prom shoppers must shop with a parent, and it does not accept large groups.