Prom Dress Shopping in Maryland? Here’s What to Know

Prom comes with a lot of pressure. The dress, the photos, the group chat chaos—it can get overwhelming fast. But finding your look doesn’t have to be stressful, especially if you know where to go. Maryland has some great prom shops, and not just in the obvious places.

Everyone talks about DC boutiques, and yes, those can be amazing. But if you live in Maryland, don’t sleep on the local spots. You’ll find well-stocked stores in Columbia, Towson, Waldorf, Annapolis, and even smaller towns like Hagerstown or Salisbury. Some carry the big-name designers. Others carry stuff you won’t see anywhere else—and that’s kind of the dream, right?

One thing I love about Maryland prom dress shops: the staff usually know their stuff. They’re not just trying to make a sale—they’ll actually ask about your dance, your school, your style. I’ve had friends walk into shops feeling nervous and leave smiling just from how kind the stylists were. That kind of vibe matters.

Also worth noting: many Maryland boutiques register dresses by school. That means once you claim your dress, no one else from your school can buy the same one there. It’s not a guarantee, but it definitely helps avoid that awkward “she’s wearing my dress” moment at the photo meetup.

If you’re looking for plus sizes, ask ahead—some stores have extended sizing in-store, others can special order. And if you’re hoping for something custom, a few Maryland shops work with in-house seamstresses for minor changes or full alterations.

So take your time. Try on a few things you wouldn’t normally choose. And bring someone who will give honest feedback and take way too many mirror selfies. Prom is just one night, but the memories start now—right in those dressing rooms across Maryland.