Why Teens Are Loving Ruffles And Tiered Ball Gown Prom Dresses Over Fishtails This Year
Once upon a time, our prom dress collection was full of fishtail style dresses. Our prom girls loved them and how they showed off their figures, and the sleek ‘mermaid’ look certainly created its very own Disney style look…albeit a far cry from a ‘traditional’ Cinderella style “once upon a time” storyline. While prom season right across Aberdeenshire has always seen a variety of dress styles including traditional ball gown prom dresses, the fishtail look certainly had its moment. Until now that is?
A quick Google search “is fishtail style dress still trendy” will give you a resounding “yes” (although are we really trusting AI overviews?). However, we’ve noticed a decline in the number of designers making a lot of this style for prom dresses.
So while it wouldn’t be correct to say that the fishtail dress trend is over, there is a dress style having its moment in 2026: ruffled or tiered ball gown prom dresses. Kathy and the Midnight Elegance team saw this even at the wedding dress buying event in Autumn 2025, where the bridal looks were bold, sculptural, and romantic. The same can be said for the prom looks this year.
This blog explores different styles of dresses or shapes of dresses. Looking for clarity on the vocabulary? Use this dress styles and dress shapes post as a guide.
The drama of ruffles and tiers
Is the trend towards ball gowns for prom in 2026 Bridgerton inspired? Perhaps. But the high waists and flowing skirt look isn’t entirely of Shondaland’s or Netflix’s doing. Ball gowns with tiered skirts and ruffles aren’t new for prom, even if prom itself is a fairly ‘modern’ concept in the UK (incidentally, we love this round up of prom styles across the years by Cosmopolitan).
If your aim is to look like a Disney princess, this is the dress choice to make that happen. We love how dramatic this style of dress is. Ruffled ball gowns create volume which means the dress literally takes up more room. Perfect for standing out in those group photo sessions! The layers created by the fabric are also very visually appealing. Add a twirl to your photoshoot, and wow, this will look amazing.
Why a ball gown is a good choice for teens to wear to prom
This style of dress works for any shape or size of body, but this style is also a good mix of being flattering, fun and comfortable. The perfect combo! The nature of the style means the texture and volume is good for hiding areas where you might feel self-conscious. Think Cinderella (with or without the puffy sleeves), this style / shape is a fitted bodice and a big, full skirt. Great for those with a bigger bust or broader shoulders too.
The comfort factor of ballgown prom dresses
The second best bit about prom, after getting hair and makeup done and feeling so glam and special, is having a dance. The great thing about a ball gown prom dress is the fact you can really dance in it! These dresses let you sit with ease and dance with ease. If a ceilidh is on the cards (because what Aberdeenshire school prom doesn’t feature a wee Gay Gordons and Dashing White Sergeant) then you’re all set to be twirled around the floor.
Why Gen Z are embracing the petticoat (just like Grandma!)
The word petticoat might have you thinking this is something only older generations wear. But large framed petticoats worn under a prom dress not only makes the experience even more comfortable but will help add to the dramatic look. It can help flatten out the layers so they don’t stick to your legs and makes the detail of the dress pop.
The great thing is, nobody will know you’re wearing it!
Excited for your prom dress shopping experience? Check out our 3 tips for making your prom dress shopping a breeze.
Got more prom dress questions? Check out our FAQs below
How much does a prom dress cost?
Dresses in our prom collection here at Midnight Elegance in Inverurie range from £250-£695.
When should you buy your prom dress?
As soon as possible.Once you’ve selected your perfect prom dress you’ve got time to order shoes, book your hair and makeup, plan a headpiece or select jewellery.
At Midnight Elegance we offer a unique service for our prom and graduation girls – our aim is that each girl feels special on her big day. For peace of mind, we offer dress exclusivity. That means we will not sell the same dress to another girl attending the same event, not even in a different colour. You want to therefore shop early so you have the greatest choice to ensure nobody else from school has already snapped your favourite up!
Do you need an appointment for prom dress shopping?
To avoid wasted journeys to our boutique, appointments are required to try on our gowns.
To enhance the prom and graduation shopping experience for both mum and daughter, an experienced member of our team provides you with a personal service and helps you try on our beautiful collection of dresses.
Book a private prom consultation to experience finding your dream prom dress without interruption
Fill in our booking form, and we’ll get back to you within 3 working days to confirm your appointment.
We can’t wait to be a part of your perfect dress preparations!
