What Types of Clothing Do Teens Wear to Homecoming Dances?
The homecoming dance is an iconic high school event commonly depicted in movies and television shows as a coming-of-age moment to remember. Though the homecoming dance is rooted in tradition, its specifics may differ from school to school. Usually, however, the homecoming dance is considered an elegant affair and students are expected to dress according to a particular dress code.
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Female Formal Attire
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Female attire for a homecoming dance that is categorized as "formal" is usually an elegant gown. An elegant gown is usually made of a sleek or shiny fabric, such as charmeuse, satin, organza, and taffeta, rather than more casual fabrics, such as cotton, polyester and wool. Many female attendees wear floor-length gowns in styles similar to those seen on the red carpet at the Oscars. However, some female attendees may choose to wear short dresses to formal events. While a short length is acceptable, the dress must still retain a level of elegance based on its cut and fabric. Any dress that sits above the dress wearer's fingertips when her arms are at her sides is not formal enough or appropriate for a high school homecoming dance.
Male Formal Attire
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Male attire for a homecoming dance with a "formal" dress code is usually a tuxedo; however, a two-piece suit (matching trousers and suit jacket) or a three-piece suit (matching trousers, suit jacket and waistcoat) is also acceptable. A suit should be paired with a necktie to fit a formal dress code. Male attendees who do not own a tuxedo, as is the case with many high school students, can rent one from a tuxedo rental shop. Shiny tuxedo shoes are also available for rent. Most male attendees wear standard-cut black tuxedos, though some prefer to wear white tuxedos or tuxedos with tailcoats and a top hat.
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Female Semi-Formal Attire
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For a "semi-formal" homecoming dance, female attendees usually wear a dress or skirt that ends at the calf or knee. A floor-length ball gown would be considered too formal for this occasion. The dresses are not usually as extravagant in style as formal dresses, perhaps containing less glitz in the design and less fullness in the skirt fabric. A female attendee can wear dressy flats or heels that match the rest of her outfit.
Male Semi-Formal Attire
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If the homecoming dance is categorized as "semi-formal," male attendees usually wear a two-piece suit or simply a button-up, collared shirt with trousers, as a tuxedo would be considered overly dressy for a semi-formal event. A neck tie is optional and may even be considered too formal and stiff for the occasion. Male attendees can pair their outfits with leather dress shoes that match their trousers and/or belts, or for a more unique look, with new, stylish street sneakers. This informal touch adds a casual yet funky feeling to an otherwise smart-looking ensemble.
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References
- Photo Credit evening gown image by Earl Robbins from Fotolia.com
