Ball Gowns Out, Brunch Dresses In: Modern Prom Attire
Prom is the coveted event of the high school. It is hailed by many as one of the most special moments of one’s teenage years. With this acclaim comes the pressure to dress to impress. But Tik Tok, the internet’s encyclopedia for even the most niche trends, has shown that prom dresses have taken an interesting turn. Glamour and extravagance have been the factors that have stayed consistent. Now, the silhouettes and styles have gotten simpler, and the internet is not happy.
Current high schoolers have been doing their classic “Get Ready With Me” and transition videos to show off their prom looks. Upon the reveal of these dresses, very opinionated remarks made their way into the comment sections. A common phrase used to describe the outfits is “Easter brunch” dresses. The dresses include tiered ruffles, floral prints, and a lot of tulle.
Yet these dresses are part of a bigger phenomenon of simple dresses. Solid satin dresses and a lack of the typical glitter, sparkles, and applique have been “in” for the last couple of years. Some have credited these styles to the dresses Australians have been wearing to their formals. HNTR The Label is one example of an Australian brand that sells these types of gowns.
Image Courtesy: hanahashimii via Pinterest
With any new craze that gains popularity on the internet, people are bound to be divided. One side of the internet says it is unoriginal and lacks the glamor expected for a formal event like prom. The other perspective is understanding and even supportive.
My opinion aligns with the second viewpoint. I've even embraced this trend for my junior and senior year prom. In defense of my fellow brunch dress enthusiasts, this trend is much more financially feasible. For instance, many simple maxi dresses cost less than $100, making them a budget-friendly option. When you consider the additional expenses of makeup, hair, shoes, and flowers, the cost of prom can quickly add up. Even a ticket to the event itself can cost up to $150. Opting for a simple dress can significantly reduce this financial strain.
Another major problem with buying a fancy, expensive dress is that it is a one-time wear. The Sherri Hill dresses that thousands of girls have begged their parents to break the bank for are probably collecting dust in a closet. Or the alternative is desperately trying to sell it to a high school underclassman for their prom. Understandably, a fancier dress is a great option, but it is not viable for everyone. You can wear the Easter dresses anywhere. Your cousin's wedding, a baby shower, even an elegant Sunday brunch with the girls.
And honestly, they are much more comfortable. One can both sit down for their subpar dinner and awkwardly dance with ease.
So, what conclusion should we reach? Let's just wear whatever we want! High school is already more cliquey than it needs to be. Prom should still be a night where you can wear something special, but in a way that is authentic to yourself. A frequent complaint from commenters is that they will now have to wear something similar to their prom. Or that they are "so glad 'brunch' dresses weren't trending" for their prom. Yet the videos feature girls proudly showcasing their looks instead of encouraging everyone to follow suit.
There have been many unpopular styles in the past, two-piece dresses, animal prints, and neon colors, to name a few. Yet, when many look back at their prom photos, they do so with a fond attitude, even if there is some embarrassment. So wear that Love Shack Fancy or Sherri Hill dress with pride.
Image Courtesy: 10 Things I Hate About You / Touchstone Pictures, Walt Disney Studios
In general, high school is an awkward time when you feel as though you have to fit in. Yet, in the end, trends come and go, so choose what makes you comfortable and represents you!
Strike Out,
Kim Nguyen
Boca Raton
Kim Nguyen is a Content Writer for Strike Magazine Boca. When not overthinking, this fangirl is either consuming romance media, Vietnamese coffee, or Beyoncé's discography. You can reach her by email at kimvunguyen14@gmail.comor on Instagram @kimnguyen1_.
