How to Dress Casually for a Dance

Women's casual is a dress with simple shoes or pants with a decorative top.

Teen dances vary from relaxed social gatherings to formal events like prom. Throughout the high school years, a variety of occasions call for students to dress in casual dress clothes rather than relaxed street clothing or their black-tie best. While many students are accustomed to dressing down and the thought of even the most casual of stuffy dress clothes may turn off some, dance attire need not be uncomfortable if teens choose fabrics that agree with their skin and shoes with softer soles.

Things You'll Need

• Button-down collared shirt
• Slacks
• Belt
• Dress shoes
• Watch
• Hair gel
• Dress
• Top
• Pants
• Shoes
• Makeup
• Necklace
• Earrings
• Rings
• Bracelet

Instructions

Casual Dress for Boys

1. Wear a button-down collared shirt. Button the collar to the top button with the collar folded down over the shoulders. A tie and jacket are not necessary. Keep the shirt sleeves rolled all the way down with the buttons fastened.

2. Iron your slacks to leave creases, or crisp folds, in the front and back. Drawstrings, sweatpants and jeans are not appropriate. Press these folds into the pant legs with an iron by laying the slacks down on their side and pressing lines along the edges of the legs. Turn the pants over and repeat the ironing. Cuff the pant leg at the ankle. Wear a basic brown or black belt.

3. Polish your shoes to create a neater appearance. Wear dress shoes, slip on casual shoes or lace-up dress shoes. Sneakers and scuffed shoes are not appropriate, as they will diminish the appearance of the outfit.

4. Accessorize with a watch and proper hair. Do not wear large necklaces or sunglasses. Do not accessorize with a hat. Comb your hair neatly. Use hair gel if necessary to keep the hair looking organized.

Casual Dress for Girls

1. Wear a dress that falls mid-thigh or a pair of women's slacks. Save a longer dress for a formal affair. Wear a dress with spaghetti straps, a halter top or without sleeves. If wearing slacks, iron them without creases and cuff them at the ankle.

2. Press a shirt to match the slacks. Do not wear bulky sweaters, sweatshirts or T-shirts. A frilly top, scoop neck, a-line shirt or wrap top will work well with casual pants. Color-coordinate the pants and shirt to make the look polished and presentable.

3. Wear shoes that feel comfortable on your feet but are not sneakers or gym shoes. High heels are fine, but stilettos are unnecessary. Wear shoes that are comfortable yet dressy. A soft-soled flat shoe works as well as a high heeled shoe. Don't wear shoes with an abundance of sparkles or decorations. Save the decorated heels for the long dress and formal dances.

4. Accessorize with your hair, makeup and jewelry. You don't need to put your hair in an updo; a simple brushing and curling at home will serve the casual dance scene. Wear a necklace with a-line tops, scoop necks, sleeveless and spaghetti strap dresses. Keep the necklaces, earrings, rings and bracelets simple and matched to each other.

References

• Virginia Tech; Division of Student Affairs; Business Casual Attire

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish