Photo: Jay Willett/WBZ NewsRadio
PEABODY, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — Prom is a special time for many, but nowadays, the attire can cost a pretty penny.
Several dress stores around the state have been jam-packed with shoppers getting ready for a big night. Revere-based ‘The Ultimate’ Bridal and Dress Shop has been around since 1969, and its Peabody location on Route One was buzzing on Thursday.
Store Manager Terri said business is booming, with some older styles making a comeback.
“A-line dresses are coming back pretty strong, florals, leopards, polkadots, all those kinds of things are coming in kind of strong,” said Terri. “It’s been crazy as usual, lots of different styles, lots of excitement for prom. Lots of last-minute shoppers, so we’re happy with that.”
Terri said shoppers are facing growing prices on dresses, due in part to tariffs. While it might not change much for some, the last-minute buyers could be feeling the effects.
“Definitely an increase in prices due to tariffs, things like that, but we always get a big selection of dresses,” said Terri. “We start getting our dresses actually, believe it or not, in September-October, by then it does start to take off because most people have shopped early. Girls want to make sure they get the dress they really want and get it on their school page so no one else gets it.”
Despite the sticker shock, it hasn’t been slowing down foot traffic at The Ultimate. Terri said there are a few reasons why some might be running late to choose their dress.
“I think sometimes girls get invited late, or they’re on the fence about whether or not they want to go,” said Terri. “Then they decide, ‘I don’t want to miss this opportunity, let me jump on it and grab a dress.’”
More information can be found on The Ultimate website here.
WBZ NewsRadio’s Jay Willett (@JayWillettWBZ) reports.