While both Homecoming and Prom are a major part of a teenage girl’s life, they are very different and demand a different kind of formal wear at each. Often, both high schools or colleges hold Homecoming in the fall as way to welcome back students as they partake in activities, leading up to an exciting football game and a dance on a Saturday night. Typically, more Homecoming dresses are shorter and flirtier, with a knee-length hemline. On the other hand, Prom takes place in the spring and is a celebration mainly for seniors and some juniors. This event is more formal so floor-length gowns with more glitz and glamour are perfectly acceptable.
How to Not Overdress at School Dances
While the selection of dresses this year might be overwhelming, narrow your choices down by not only considering the type of event and dress code but by perusing some dress choices at Peaches Boutique in Chicago. This will help you find the appropriate dresses of the latest fashions, such as fit and flare styles and bandage minis for Homecoming to princess-type ball gowns for Prom. These tips will help you find the ideal gown for both, without going overboard.
Homecoming
- Opt for shorter dresses and don’t reuse an old prom dress. Instead opt for something new and fresh, and you’ll find a huge selection of fashionable homecoming dresses at Peaches Boutique.
- Stick to a classic homecoming style, which translates to semi-formal options. This generally means knee-length dresses and nothing too embellished or overdone. Stick to autumn or winter colors or even subtle patterns but avoid pastels for Homecoming. You can never go wrong with a little black dress or a metallic dress in silver or gold, depending on your skin tone. Choose one with just enough beading or sparkle to make it dressy and that you accessorize with diamond studs or sparkly pumps.
- Select a dress that’s both flattering and comfortable as you’ll be on the move for several hours through group photos to dancing the night away. Both jersey and chiffon skirts are easy to move in, while the chiffon ones tend to be a more flared style than a hip-hugging one.
Prom
- Choose either a short prom dress or a longer princess-type gown, as they are both appropriate since prom is more formal so you can show up with more sparkle, ruffles, or embellishments on your gown. Keep in mind the same advice when choosing fabrics that allow you to move around and breathe easily but you can select a much wider range of colors for Prom.
- Show just the right amount of skin. It’s classy to have a backless dress, especially if part of it features a nude mesh over it. It may look tacky if your dress has a slit all the way to your thigh, a deep plunging neckline, and an open back. So choose to show just the right amount of skin without going overboard.
- Match your accessories properly. You found the perfect ruby-red prom dress, complete intricate designs on the bodice and cap sleeves. Don’t wreck it by purchasing all your accessories in that shade of reddish pink. Instead, accent your dress with silver heels and a silver or diamond bag, along with diamond studded jewelry to complete the look.
Teen girls often remember both of these dances fondly for years to come so try not to become overstressed about what to wear and focus on having a good time.
Kiwi says
Its totally homecoming season for high school and college! Great tips I wish I knew some of these when I was in school!
lisa @bitesforbabies says
I remember back in the day that less was NOT more at prom, lol! We went all out, lol! These are great tips though since times have changed!
Jenn @ EngineerMommy says
I remember my prom well! I went to the prom with my high school sweetheart, who is now my husband! These are great tips to consider when choosing a prom dress.
Alli Rutherford Smith says
When I was in high school (long time ago) the Homecoming Court always wore a skirt, blouse and jacket. I recently attended my niece’s high school homecoming and they had on evening gowns. Times sure have changed. They looked like they were going to the prom and could barely walk in their stilettos on the football field. 🙂
Debbie Woodruff says
I never had a daughter, so picking a dress for a prom was something I haven’t done since high school. Things have changed a bit.
My Journey With Candida says
Ohhh… it is that time of year isn’t it. I don’t have any kids or Grandkids right now at the age for this, so I forget. Things have changed so much since I was younger.
winifredjac says
Just brought me back to school dance memories… not all great, but… LOL. I feel like you SHOULD be overdressed! I always am, even at the grocery store!
Savannah miller says
I went to prom with my hubby (2006) and I had a big dress :). I was so upset someone else had the same dress!! I love how the styles keep changing, I have boys so sadly I don’t see any prom dress shopping in my future.
Jenn says
These are great tips. I was worried our teenage daughter was going to be under-dressed, but she ended up buying the perfect dress.
Coco says
Great guide for young girls Leelo! Baci, Coco et La vie en rose fashion blog – Valeria Arizzi
Liz Mays says
These are helpful tips. I like the idea of accessorizing with colors that complement rather than match.
Jeanine says
Great tips! I’ve never been to either one so these will be great tips for when my kiddos time comes!
Angelic Sinova says
These are some great tips! I remember when I was in high school I definitely though less was more when it came to my prom dress <3
martsvalenzuela says
Wow. I remember the time I attended prom. Actually, those who stood up as the most attractive are the ones who wears the simplest accessories and not those who are overdressed.
Stephanie Pass says
I so feel like I missed out on this experience. I went to a private religious high school, and the religion did not believe in dancing, so we never had a dance.
Eieen says
This post makes me think back to when I was in high school! It seems like there are so many more choices these days!
Tiany - Social Savvy Mom says
Great tips, I was definitely overdressed at one of my dances and I never made that mistake again! LOL
Stephanie says
I have two daughters and they’ve definitely seen their share of proms. Here, there is a rule that if you’re a Junior you wear a long dress and if you’re a senior you wear a short one.
sizzlesue15 says
We only have one school formal in Australia but it looks like you have covered everything in your post for those attending your Homecoming. Thanks for sharing with us at #WednesdaysWisdom and see you next week.
Sandy Sandmeyer says
I so appreciate you sharing your post at the #AnythingGoes Link Party. I’m looking forward to what you’ll share with us next week.
Peachy @ The Peach Kitchen says
Awesome tips for those in high school and college. Thank you so much for sharing.