WEST SPRINGFIELD – A Massachusetts celebrity stylist is hosting a prom pop-up shop in West Springfield to give back to students in need.

Nolan Wells, a wardrobe stylist known for his work with celebrities, is providing high end and designer gowns, including La Femme, Mac Duggal and Sherri Hill, to teens at affordable prices. The dresses have a starting rate of $99 and range from sizes 0 to 30. Slated for Feb. 19 through Feb. 25, the event takes place at the Steinmetz Photography building. The stylist is also partnering up with Dress for Success, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering women by providing them with professional attire and job-search support, and plans to donate 100 gently-used dresses to students in need.

The pop-up shop is the first of its kind, and is geared toward making the prom shopping experience “enjoyable for all,” promising every consumer a fulfilling, personalized styling experience no matter their budget, dress size or background. Wells will be in attendance for the entire duration of the pop-up.

Born and raised in Springfield, Wells is known for styling celebrities such as Flo Rida, Real Housewives of New Jersey Melissa Gorga and Karina Smirnoff. He specializes in Red Carpet, Tour Wardrobe, Press Styling and Editorial and Image Consulting. His work has been featured in People Magazine and The Source.

The self-taught stylist told Reminder Publications that he had always been interested in the fashion industry growing up. Shortly after graduating from Sabis International Charter School in 2010, he started interning in various positions within the fashion industry.

Wells said he wanted to use his experiences in fashion to give back to the community.

“With the pop-up, I am able to offer my expertise as a stylist and also work to make sure no one is left out this prom season,” he said. “We want to make sure that every high school girl across the board has the chance to have that feel-good moment.”

He also added that prom is more than just a high school dance, but a coming-of-age experience as well. Wells said he understands that the experience can get quite expensive – with costs stemming from accessories, shoes, hair, make up and a limo – and that many students face hardships and are unable to purchase dresses.

The mission of the pop-up is to provide young women with the powerful tool of self-confidence so they can dance the night away, he explained.

“Self confidence is everyone’s best accessory,” he commented.

The key to confidence comes from dresses that are tailored correctly, with subtle accessories. Some prom styles to watch out for in 2018 include velvet, metallic, open back and soft pastels, said the stylist.

Wells will also personally style one recipient of a “gifted” dress. He and his team will pick one local girl who will receive a “gifted” dress and a complimentary glam makeover from Irene Mendez and the staff at Baked Beauty Bar in Springfield. The winner will receive the full experience, including hair, makeup and nails. Wells expects to announce the winner sometime during the first week of April.

“I want students to know if you reach for the stars you can achieve all of your dreams,” said Wells. “I truly believe fashion gives people the confidence to go after what they truly desire. I want to see young men and women looking fabulous and living a life that matches their inner strength.”