School dances are some of the most anticipated events in a teenager’s life. If you’re new to high school, you might wonder about the differences between homecoming and prom. While both events involve dressing up and gathering together, there are key distinctions that could impact your attire. These festivities occur at different times of the year, serve different purposes, and welcome different groups of attendees. Read on to learn more about these events and how to dress for each occasion.
What is Homecoming?
Homecoming is often a week-long event that includes underclassmen and alumni. Usually held in September or October, it celebrates the return to school. The tradition began at colleges in the early 1900s, where schools celebrated the season’s first football game, and alumni visited their alma mater. In high school, homecoming is filled with activities that boost school spirit. Expect pep rallies, parades, a football game, and the homecoming dance.
What is Prom?
Prom, short for promenade dance, is a formal event typically held for upperclassmen at the end of the school year. Prom’s history dates back to pre-war America when public education expanded, allowing more students to experience school activities. The event served as a passage from adolescence to adulthood, initially reserved for wealthier students like debutante balls but soon became universal.
How Do Prom and Homecoming Compare?
Homecoming is generally more relaxed than prom. Students attend with a date or a group of friends. The dress code is semi-formal, with attire such as cocktail dresses, button-down shirts, and slacks. Homecoming dresses are typically shorter, hitting above or just below the knee.
Prom, on the other hand, is more formal and traditional. Teenagers attend as couples, and the dance is usually limited to juniors, seniors, or both, depending on the school. Formal attire like long evening gowns, tuxedos, or suits is encouraged. Prom dresses are typically floor-length and come in various silhouettes and colors.
Despite their differences, homecoming and prom share some traditions. For instance, the exchange of corsages and boutonnieres before the event and the crowning of the king and queen are exciting moments for both occasions. Asking someone to be your date has become a tradition, with homecoming proposals becoming more elaborate, similar to promposals. These gestures are often shared on social media, with the grander they are, the more shareable they become.
How to Choose a Dress for Homecoming or Prom
Both events are great opportunities to showcase your style and personality. Cocktail dresses are the usual homecoming staples; they are short, sweet, and easy to wear, creating a relaxed semi-formal look. You can accessorize boldly since shorter dresses are generally less expensive than gowns. In some regions, teenagers may opt for longer gowns for homecoming, but these are usually still more casual than prom dresses.
Prom is the time to wear a long, formal dress. Choosing a prom dress can be overwhelming, so it helps to establish your vision and budget before shopping. Consider looking at current prom trends to get an idea of what you might want to try on.
Color trends for your prom dress are also worth considering. Jewel tones like emerald or sapphire add a touch of elegance. You can keep it classic with a black dress or add some shine with iridescence. Try to keep your accessories minimal to focus on your dress and stay within your budget.
While homecoming and prom differ, especially in dress codes, wearing the right dress can make the night even more magical. These events mark important milestones, and dressing up with your friends or spending time with your date can create lifelong memories you’ll cherish. When you look back, you’ll also want to remember how lovely you looked and felt.
