Prom Queens

In these trying retail times, shop owners must find creative ways to attract customers—and Charlene Mulholland and Jeanine Sherry, sisters and partners in Media’s Sorella Boutique, have done just that, converting their shop’s lower level into the Prom Lounge. To court younger shoppers, they’ve filled the space with trendy looks from designers like Tony Bowls and Atelier Alyce—gowns you won’t find just anywhere, including King of Prussia Mall.

But trendy doesn’t have to mean expensive. “We’ve kept the prices of the gowns at $500 and under,” says Mulholland. “I’m a mother, too—and I know how expensive proms can get once you add all the extras.”

While parents should love the price points, girls will love the fact that Sorella goes out of its way to avoid a potential fashion faux pas. “I won’t even let someone try on the dress if it’s already been sold to a girl going to that prom,” says Mulholland.

Sorella’s inventory includes everything from a Grecian-style Aidan Maddox ivory chiffon gown to a leopard-print Mori Lee. “Any gown can be special-ordered for size or color,” says Mulholland. “We want to make shopping here a special experience.”

23 E. State St., Media; (610) 566-2393, sorellashop.com.