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Prom is one of the biggest nights of high school, and it’s an event that many individuals anticipate year-round. Once you’ve danced the night away and spent all evening with your friends, you might want to keep the fun going – this is where after-prom planning comes in.Our planning guide gives you some of the top ideas to enhance your evening after prom and make your night the most memorable it can be. What Should I Do After Prom? Prom night entails formal dresses and suits, a night on the dance floor, and plenty of pictures of the good times you are having with your friends or prom date. Many individuals find that they want to keep the fun going after prom, but it can often be hard to decide what to do, especially if you are trying to organize a larger friend group. In most cases, individuals leaving prom opt to get food with their friends, spend the night in a hotel or at a friend’s house, or simply go home and relax after their big night. What you do after prom depends on your comfort level, who you are planning to be with, and your personal preferences – remember to only do what you feel comfortable with, and don’t let yourself be pressured into activities that aren’t right for you. After Prom Ideas The following post-prom ideas help give you some inspiration for what you and your friends or date might want to do to keep the fun going after prom is over. Visit a Diner Prom events typically have an assortment of light refreshments or dinner, but if you’ve been too busy dancing to eat or you’ve worked up an appetite during the evening, planning to visit a local diner or restaurant after prom is a great idea. Diners and fast food restaurants are typically open late, making them a perfect choice for dinner with your closest friends after prom. Go Bowling A fun way to keep the memories going is by visiting a local bowling alley. Many of these places are open later, so you can be sure to find a lane after prom, and you can all take turns trying to get the best score. Just remember to switch out your formal prom shoes for bowling-appropriate shoes before you get started! Have a Sleepover One of the most classic post-prom ideas is the sleepover. Choosing a friend’s house to stay at or renting out a home like an Airbnb (with your parent’s help and a chaperone, as needed) is a great way to talk about everything that happened at prom, watch some classic prom movies together, and keep the fun going until you all fall asleep. Check Into a Hotel Checking into a fancy hotel completes the formal prom night vibes, and if you and your friends are willing to split the cost of this, it’s a great way to make your night memorable. You may need a parent’s help making a hotel reservation, but once you have one secured, you can get ready for prom and head back to your room after prom is over to continue the fun. Host a Game Night If you’re into board games or card games, a game night at your home is an easy way to keep the fun going. Invite your friends or date back to your place and have games set out so you can all choose which ones to play. Complete the evening by ordering food or providing snacks, and you’ll have a great after prom game night setup. Visit a Skating Rink Visiting a skating rink after prom is a great idea for individuals who aren’t done dancing and getting their energy out. Trade your formal prom shoes for roller skates or even ice skates, and consider bringing a change of clothes for safety reasons. Once you’re ready to skate, have fun zooming around the rink with your friends or date. Watch a Movie Renting out a movie theatre for your friends or simply gathering at one of your homes to watch a movie is a low-key way to spend your time after prom. You can choose a newly released movie that everyone wants to see or a classic prom-themed movie to round out your prom night. Have a Photoshoot With all the rush of getting ready for prom and making sure you’re organized, you may have forgotten to take pictures. If you want to make sure you get the best shots of you and your friends dressed up in your outfits, make plans to host a photoshoot after prom. You can scout out some fun locations and have fun posing for pictures with your friends. Make sure that any location you go to is safe for visiting after hours, as it will likely be later in the evening by the time your prom is over. Visit an Arcade If you want to try your hand at laser tag, play arcade games, or even challenge your friends to a round of minigolf, find a local arcade to visit after prom. Arcades are another venue that is typically open later, and you can take lots of fun pictures as you attempt to putt a golf ball or run around a laser tag arena in your formal prom outfits. Try an Escape Room For individuals who are up to the challenge, escape rooms are an exciting way to complete your prom night. These rooms offer individuals the chance to try and piece together clues that let them out of a room, and they typically have fun themes such as horror, espionage, and fantasy. Choose a room that your whole friend group is excited about, and head there after prom to see if you have what it takes to escape. Frequently Asked Questions If you’re still unsure of your post-prom activities or have some more questions about how to plan them, read below for answers. Do I Need To Do Something After Prom? After prom planning is something that many individuals do, but you don’t have to do something after prom if you aren’t enthused by the idea. Simply taking the night to yourself, saying goodbye to your friends, and going home to relax is also a great option. As we mentioned above, only participate in after prom activities that make you happy – don’t stress yourself out trying to keep up with planning if you want a quiet night at home instead. What if My Friends Don’t Want To Do Things After Prom? If you want to do something after prom, but you can’t get your friend group on board, don’t worry. You may need to schedule an event for the next day so everyone feels refreshed, or you may need to change the focus of your post-prom activities altogether. Careful and considerate deliberation with your friend group or date is the best way to settle on after prom ideas that suit everyone’s tastes. How Can I Prepare for an After Prom Activity? No matter which after prom idea you’ve decided to go with, you may be wondering how to prepare. We recommend taking a bag with you to prom that contains touch-up items you may need through the night. We also suggest that you bring a change of shoes and a change of clothes if you know you are going somewhere like a skating rink where you will need to be out of your formal clothing. Consider the after prom activity you are engaging in before packing your bag with essential supplies that you might need throughout the night. Making the Most of Your Prom Night Prom is one of those once-in-a-lifetime events that many individuals remember fondly, even decades later. The months and weeks leading up to this event can be stressful as you try to get your outfit organized and ensure everything is ready for your big night, and adding after prom planning on top of this might seem impossible. Fortunately, you can take your time to think about what you’d like to do with your friends or date after prom and review our planning guide for easy ideas that will help you make the most of your prom night. Tags:  Prom

Prom is one of the most highly anticipated events during high school. This end-of-the-year party is known for having unique themes and giving students the chance to dress up and celebrate their transition to life after high school. However, planning prom can be difficult, and there are so many themes out there that it can be hard to choose one. Our article gives you some of the most popular prom theme ideas so you can start getting inspired and planning a memorable prom event. What You Need to Know About Prom Prom is an essential party hosted by the majority of high schools across the United States. This event is held in May, at the end of the school year, and typically only senior high school students attend as part of the celebration of their transition to new things. Some schools do allow underclassmen, specifically junior high school students, to attend, but this does depend on school rules and traditions. Prom night will be planned by a committee of students working with teachers, and most proms feature a formal venue, a fun theme, and semi-formal outfits for all students attending. Picking a theme for prom and decorating the venue accordingly is one of the most time-consuming parts of this process. This is because it’s important that the prom theme is fun and appealing to the majority of students in attendance. Prom Theme Ideas for Event Inspiration The following prom theme ideas will help give you inspiration as you get to work planning this event. A Night Under the Stars One of the most popular prom themes year after year is the ‘night under the stars’ theme. This theme features twinkling stars along ceilings, lots of blues and blacks, and a dreamy atmosphere for students to celebrate their night. Alternatively, you could embrace Van Gogh’s Starry Night painting to give a more unique twist on this popular theme. Gatsby Themed Another highly popular prom theme is The Great Gatsby. This classic piece of literature is a staple in many high schools, and the promise of glamorous parties and roaring 20s vibes hidden in its pages is appealing to many prom planning committees. With a Gatsby theme, expect lots of gold, silver, and black designs, 1920s-themed outfits, and a snazzy checkerboard dance floor. Under the Sea A unique theme that gives an enchanting look to prom, the ‘under the sea’ theme features lots of blue and white, plus fun oceanic decorations like silver tassels and fish-shaped balloons. This theme promises an enchanting ocean wonderland where students can enjoy their prom night. Winter Wonderland Even though prom takes place in May, a winter wonderland themed prom is a great way to add some wintery glamor to this formal event. Lots of blues, whites, and violets are utilized for winter themes, and you can decorate the prom venue with icicles, snowflakes, and cute winter props. Decade Dances Decade dances embrace certain popular decades, such as the 70s, 80s, or 90s. Embracing a certain decade as a prom theme gives a chance to step it up with fun themed decorations and themed prom outfits. Students can enjoy a trip back in time for their prom night, and teachers or chaperones can enjoy some nostalgia. Masquerade Ball Masquerade ball themes are highly popular for proms. These themes embrace more formal outfits, plus there’s the exciting aspect of matching masquerade masks and accessories to prom outfits. Lots of rich reds, blacks, and blues are popular for masquerade balls. You can choose to lean into a more Phantom of the Opera-type theme or a less-specific formal ball theme. Fairytale and Enchanted Forests Fairytale themes and enchanted forests make for a magical prom night. Both of these themes are complete with lots of green colors, decorative plants, and unique elements such as fairytale characters or magical forest creatures. These themes are especially fun when you have a large venue to decorate with string lights and prop trees. Carnival Carnival and circus themes are a unique way to add some color to prom night and include fun activities such as arcades and carnival games. Carnival themes are great for outdoor areas where you have lots of space to set up different booths for students to engage with. Bonus point if you have a large tented area you can decorate in red and gold like a traditional carnival. An Evening in Paris ‘An evening in Paris’ is a popular international prom theme and it typically features cut-outs of the Eiffel Tower, Parisian-inspired décor, and French food and themed drinks. Other similar international prom themes include nights in Venice and Greece, and you can decorate the prom venue with appropriate scenery and color schemes to match. Space Themes Similar to ‘a night under the stars,’ space themes embrace the sky above and offer a magical prom night. With space themes, you can decorate with hanging planets, lots of space colors, and even some neon glow to give prom a futuristic, outer space vibe. Casino Casino themes are popular at prom due to the more formal attire required and the fun of dressing up to play games and walk down a red velvet entryway. Lots of blacks, whites, and reds are great for this theme, and you can organize tables for students to play games. Add lots of decorations themed like decks of cards to complete the look. Beach and Tropical Beach night and tropical themes embrace palm trees, bright yellow and blue decorations, and utilize prop plants to give your prom venue a relaxing atmosphere. A beach party or a tropical getaway prom thing might be just the thing to help students relax and celebrate before everything that their transition away from high school brings. FAQs About Prom Night We answer frequently asked questions about prom night below so you can stay informed about the essentials of this event and put any remaining worries about prom to rest. What Do I Wear to Prom? Choosing what to wear to prom is a big deal for any student, and you no doubt want to look your best at this event. When selecting your prom night outfit, make sure to take into consideration the theme of your prom, and the type of prom outfit that makes you feel happy and confident. Browse our collection for additional prom outfit inspiration. Should I Plan a Prom After-Party? Many individuals attending prom decide to plan an after-party with their friend group to keep the fun going once the official prom event is over. Whether or not to plan and attend one of these events is really up to what you feel comfortable with. Maybe your friend group wants to grab some food after prom, or maybe you plan a sleepover with your best friend. Either way, what you do after prom is up to you and your friends. How Do I Prepare for Prom? Prepare for prom the right way by creating a checklist of the items you need to remember for prom night and organizing plans for before and after prom. You’ll also want to purchase your prom ticket and secure your dream prom outfit well ahead of time. Careful planning and organization will help everything go smoothly on the night of prom and ensure that you don’t forget anything leading up to this big night. Do All Proms Have a Theme? The majority of proms do have a fun theme, though this depends on the school and specific traditions. Some proms may simply throw a fun formal dance in a nice venue, while others may go all-out with prom themes and matching decorations. Speak with your school’s prom committee to learn more about the traditions of your school’s prom. Prom Ideas for the Perfect Night When it comes to organizing and planning the perfect prom night, the prom ideas in our article will help inspire your planning. No matter which theme you decide on, as long as you have plenty of fun decorations and a welcoming atmosphere, prom night is sure to be memorable for everyone in attendance. Tags:  Prom

Bachelorette parties are highly anticipated events, and many individuals look forward to their bachelorette events as much as their weddings. However, bachelorette party planning can be stressful when you aren’t sure which theme to pursue or how to plan your party. To help you out, our party inspiration guide is here to give you some of the most popular bachelorette themes to inspire you. We also answer important FAQs about bachelorette parties so you can put any remaining worries about this party to rest. What Does a Bachelorette Party Celebrate? Bachelorette parties, often thought of as a way to celebrate a ‘last night of freedom,’ are the bride’s counterpart to the ever-popular bachelor party for the groom. These parties are often highly anticipated events, and they are planned months in advance, much like the bride’s actual wedding. The bachelorette party is intended to provide a fun reprieve from wedding planning and allow the bride and her friends to celebrate the upcoming wedding. Many individuals make sure the theme of the bachelorette party is tailored to the bride’s interests and desires. They also take into account each person attending the bridal party to make the experience fun, worry-free, and a time to remember. Bachelorette Party Themes to Inspire You There are many different bachelorette party themes out there, and it’s common to feel overwhelmed or confused about which theme you should pick. Below, we list some of the most popular bachelorette party themes around today to inspire your own bachelorette party planning. Remember, when choosing a theme you should take into account the bride’s preferences first. In addition, think about the budget for the party and general logistics of throwing the kind of bachelorette party desired. Pajama Party One of the more laid-back types of bachelorette parties is the pajama party. This could be a sleepover theme, or a girls’ night in complete with matching bridal party onesies, an arrangement of snacks, and a collection of the bride’s favorite movies or tv shows. If you have a bigger bridal party and need more space than someone’s house would provide, you can rent a cabin, a set of hotel suites, or an Airbnb for a fun getaway vibe. Nautical Vibes ‘Last Splash’ parties are very common bachelorette party themes, especially if the bachelorette party is going to take place during the warmer months of the year. Ideas of parties with this theme include renting out a pool for the day, chartering a boat, or having a fun nautical-themed party in an area near the coast or along a beach. Renting a beach house is also a great option if your bride loves to be near the ocean and wants a weekend getaway for her bachelorette. Brewery Visit For the bride that loves a brewery tour or trying out interesting new beers, you can arrange a day out at a local brewery or a weekend taking a tour through popular breweries in a specific area. This could be a long weekend, a day trip, or an overnight trip, and you can create party favors for every individual attending that are brewery themed. You may also want to include fun items to help everyone feel their best after drinking, such as electrolyte powder and ibuprofen. Wine Weekend Similar to brewery visits, wine weekends are popular amongst bachelorette parties. For a wine weekend, you can organize winery day tours near the bride’s location or take a fun weekend-long trip to wine country. There, you can spend days coasting through wineries, trying fine wines, and eating lots of cheese. If you do decide on an out-of-town winery weekend experience, make sure that every member of the bachelorette party is informed of the budget for the trip. Make arrangements well ahead of time so you don’t miss your chance to tour the wineries you are interested in. Seasonal Themes Seasonal themes are a fun way to make bachelorette parties memorable based on the time of year they are occurring. For example, if your bride’s wedding is occurring sometime in October, you may want to have a cute Halloween-themed party. If the wedding is around Christmas or other winter holidays, you may want to have a fun winter-themed party complete with activities, drinks, and party games that embrace the seasonal theme. You could even have a Fourth of July weekend at the beach. With seasonal themes, anything is possible, and there is a whole world of possibilities for throwing a great bachelorette party. Camping or Glamping For the bride that loves the outdoors, a camping or glamping weekend is a great way to disconnect and take a deep breath in the wilderness before the wild wedding weekend. For a camping bachelorette party, you can choose a local campsite and pitch some tents. Or, opt for a more glamping experience with a yurt or cabin that’s complete with electricity and modern amenities. Once you’ve got everything organized for your camping weekend, celebrate your bride and engage in fun wilderness activities like smores by the campfire, hiking, and stargazing. Decade Parties Theming your bachelorette party around a specific decade is a fun activity that gives everyone a little throwback, depending on the age of those attending your party. 90s parties, disco themes, and 50s parties all call for fun decorations, themed outfits, and a night out dancing to tunes from those eras. You can even create food and drink that is relevant to the era you’ve chosen, setting up your bachelorette party attendees for a fun, themed event. Wellness Weekend It’s no secret that wedding planning is stressful, and one of the most relaxing bachelorette parties to host is a wellness weekend. Celebrate your bride and the rest of the bachelorette party by taking a weekend away at a spa, engaging in a wellness retreat, taking yoga classes, or hosting a spa night at home. These activities offer fun and bonding for the bridal party, all while being a relaxing way to recharge before the wedding. Pop Culture Themes If your bride is a fan of a specific tv show, singer, or movie, you can tailor your bachelorette party to be themed around this. Popular singers include Taylor Swift and Beyonce, and tv shows that are commonly used at bachelorette parties include Friends and The Office. Theme your food, drinks, and activities using show quotes or song lyrics, and decide on themed outfits according to these fun pop culture themes. Garden Party If you want to add a little bit of elegance to your bachelorette party, consider hosting a garden party. You can keep this more formal and insist on fun hats and outfits, or you can host your outdoor party with a more casual vibe. As long as there are plenty of fun decorations and themed food and drink, your bachelorette attendees are sure to have a great time. FAQs About Bachelorette Parties Our answers to the following frequently asked questions about bachelorette parties will help clear up any remaining questions about this important pre-wedding party. What Do I Wear to a Bachelorette Party? What you wear to a bachelorette party depends on the theme of the party. For parties with specific dress codes and themes, speak to the party’s organizer if you need clarification on which outfits to wear. You should also check any information that has been given to you about the bachelorette party to ensure you are dressing according to the requests of the bride. If your bachelorette party is planning on a night out on the town after any fun daytime activities, you may be requested to wear a matching outfit or a simple, flirty cocktail dress with bachelorette party accessories as you and your girls enjoy your night out. Who Plans the Bachelorette Party? Traditionally, planning the bachelorette party is one of the main duties of the Maid of Honor. However, the bride may want to take over planning herself, or other members of the bachelorette and bridal party may want to be involved. It’s important to keep in mind when planning this type of event that planning is stressful. Don’t let miscommunications get in the way of the party’s main goal of celebrating the bride and her upcoming wedding. Should My Bachelorette Party Be Adult-Themed? Many bachelorette parties tend to be adult-themed and include rather risqué decorations, cakes, and party favors. When deciding whether to include these items in your bachelorette party, consider if the bride will be receptive to these items, and everyone’s comfort level with a more adult theme. You don’t want to risk upsetting or offending the bride if adult-themed items aren’t her vibe, and you fill every part of the bachelorette party with them. Do Bachelorette Parties Need to Include Drinking? More often than not, bachelorette parties do include a night out on the town or some aspect of fun alcoholic drinks. However, this doesn’t need to be the case with your bachelorette party. Similar to deciding whether or not you want an adult theme for the party, consider the bride’s preferences and the preferences of others in the bachelorette party. If the vibe is more relaxed, the bride is sober, or drinking isn’t really a consideration, you don’t need to include it in the party. When Do Bachelorette Parties Occur? Bachelorette parties typically occur between one and four months before the wedding itself. Most bachelorette parties occur right around two months before the wedding. This is because the point of the party is to celebrate the bride, build excitement for the wedding, and give a brief respite from all of the wedding planning. Do I Have to Throw a Bachelorette Party? While bachelorette parties are all the rage on social media and are commonly thought of as a must-have, you don’t have to have one of these parties if you simply aren’t feeling it. Many brides choose to have a quiet dinner with their bridal party or skip the bachelorette events altogether in favor of making their wedding reception even more of a night to remember. As with most things in wedding planning, the final choice is totally up to the bride and what they feel most comfortable with. What Is Proper Bachelorette Party Etiquette? As you plan a bachelorette party, make sure to keep in mind proper etiquette. Most notably, the bride typically doesn’t pay for any of the daily activities (this may vary based on your party’s budget) and their preferences should be first for consideration. Remember, the party is to celebrate the bride and have the bridal party bond – it’s not a time for arguments or for one person to take the spotlight off of the bride. Planning a Once in a Lifetime Party Bachelorette parties are a once-in-a-lifetime event that many individuals highly anticipate. If you’re in charge of planning this party, you may be wondering about what the best themes are and how to organize every aspect of this event. Review our party inspiration guide for help deciding on a theme. Remember to include the bride every step of the way so you throw a memorable party that celebrates the bride, the bridal party, and the upcoming wedding. Tags:  Party

Taking a date to prom is a fun opportunity to bond with someone you’ve been interested in for a while, or to spend the evening with a longer-term partner. And, no matter whether prom is your first date or your hundredth date with your partner, you’re sure to be nervous about everything that surrounds this memorable occasion. Our guide helps you prepare for your prom night by telling you everything you need to know about bringing a date to prom. Do I Need a Prom Date? While many individuals anticipate having a prom date, it’s important to remember that you don’t necessarily need a date to attend prom. If you are much happier attending alone with friends, or you don’t want to stress yourself out by trying to find a date in the days leading up to prom, that is perfectly okay. Prom night is about enjoying your last days of high school and celebrating your transition to new things – don’t stress yourself out about finding a date to the point where you can’t enjoy the night you’ve spent months preparing for. Essential Things to Know When Bringing a Date to Prom If you are bringing a date to prom, there are some essential things to keep in mind. Reviewing all of these tips will help you make sure that your prom date feels special and that the two of you enjoy your prom night to the max. Plan a Promposal Promposals are very popular, creative ways to ask someone to prom. Anyone can plan a promposal for their potential prom date, and promposals are often a fun way to involve your friends and your creativity in the prom process. You should aim to ask a potential date to prom a few months ahead of time, as this gives you enough time to figure out your prom plans, decide if you want to coordinate outfits and get ready for the big day. If you are more nervous about asking your potential date to prom, you don’t have to go all out with a big promposal. Simply ask them when you feel the time is right and avoid grand public gestures unless you are positive your potential date will respond favorably – this will save you a lot of stress if the unexpected should occur. Secure a Corsage or Boutonniere Giving a corsage or boutonniere to your prom date is more traditional, and exchanging these items before prom is a great way to show that you’re a couple and to score some amazing pictures. Order your date’s corsage or boutonniere well ahead of time to ensure it arrives ahead of prom night and looks how you expect it to. Match Outfits With Your Date After securing your prom date, you will likely want to talk with them about potentially matching outfits. Many individuals love their dates to have complementary colors, and it could be something as simple as a bowtie matching a dress or more eye-catching, like suits and dresses in matching colors. Whatever you and your partner decide on, make sure that you have your outfit ideas selected and purchased a month or so ahead of prom so that there are no last-minute surprises while you get ready for prom. This also leaves you plenty of time for alterations and to select accessories. Decide on Pre or Post-Prom Activities Both pre and post-prom activities are staples of the prom night event – you may want to have a nice dinner with your date before prom or stop by a movie theatre or bowling alley after prom to keep the fun going. Whatever you and your date decide on, make sure that you secure reservations when necessary ahead of time and that you both agree on fun before and after prom plans. Take Lots of Pictures Prom is one of the most memorable nights of many people’s lives, and it’s important to take lots of pictures to remember it. And while we encourage having mini photoshoots with your date and friends, we recommend not spending all night posting the pictures you take on social media – go through the pictures after prom to choose the best ones so that you don’t accidentally miss a moment of your prom night while you’re snapping and editing pictures on your phone. Meet Up With Friends Attending prom with your date is a fun activity, and you can make it even more fun by going with a group of both of your friends or partnering up with another couple to enjoy the night. Include your friends in your photoshoots, pre or post-prom plans, and dance the night away with your group, but make sure to save a slow dance or two reserved for your date. Don’t Forget to Dance Dancing is one of the best things to do at prom, and most individuals love spending their night on the dance floor. It doesn’t matter if you’ve never danced before or if you’re used to hitting the dance floor; prom night is a great place to show off your moves and jam out to your favorite songs with your date. And when the slow dances come on, find your date and spend a song or two simply enjoying each other’s company. Frequently Asked Questions Still have a lingering question about prom? Of course, you do! It’s a big night, so obviously, there’s still some situations you may be unsure about. Read on for answers to your prom questions. Can I Go to Prom Without a Date? Even though many individuals might think that you absolutely must have a date before you go to prom, the truth is that you don’t necessarily need a date to attend this event. While many people enjoy spending the evening with a date, others love to attend alone or with a group of friends. The key to enjoying prom and making the most out of your night is simply doing what you feel most comfortable with and not letting others’ expectations hold you back from enjoying yourself. Do I Need to Plan a Promposal? Promposals are a fun way to ask your potential date to prom, but you don’t need to plan one of these showy events if neither you nor your date is enthused about it. You can ask your date to attend prom with you in any fashion that makes the both of you comfortable, as long as you make sure to respect their answer, even if it isn’t what you might want to hear at that moment. How Can I Make My Prom Date Feel Special? If you want to make sure your prom date feels special throughout prom, take time to discuss pre and post-prom activities with them. Engage with them about their expectations for prom ahead of time, and organize events or special touches, such as a bouquet of flowers, that you know your date will enjoy in order to add some magic to your prom night. As with most things, great communication is key, and speaking with your prom date about your prom plans often will help the night go as smoothly as possible. Enjoying Prom Night With Your Date Prom night is one of the most anticipated nights of high school, and many individuals choose to bring dates to this event. Review our guide for the best advice on what to consider when asking your potential date to prom and planning a whole evening’s worth of fun prom events for you and your date to enjoy. And remember, once you get to prom, relax and enjoy the evening with your date – all of your planning led up to this night, so make sure you make the most of it. Tags:  Prom

Engagement parties are highly anticipated events, and these gatherings of friends and family often have varying dress codes based on a number of different factors. If you’ve recently been invited to an engagement party but aren’t sure what to wear, our style guide is here to help you out. Below, we give you items to consider as you choose your outfit for the engagement party and some essential etiquette tips. We’ll keep you looking your best and help you avoid any accidental fashion faux pas. What Is an Engagement Party? An engagement party is a party that a newly engaged couple throws to celebrate their engagement with their friends and family. They can be used as a way to announce an engagement to several people and extended friends and family members. Alternatively, one partner may even throw a party with friends and family with plans to propose during the party. Engagement parties range in formality depending on the preferences of the newly engaged couple. You may be invited to a casual outdoor BBQ to celebrate an engagement, or a formal dinner with black-tie dress required. Because of the many different engagement party options, it’s essential to know which factors to consider as you start to decide on an outfit for an engagement party. Deciding What to Wear to an Engagement Party Deciding what to wear to an engagement party can be stressful, as you want to make sure that your outfit fits the event and doesn’t draw attention away from the engaged couple. Make sure to consider the following items as you set about choosing what to wear to an engagement party. Pay Attention to Dress Code When you’re invited to an engagement party, the expected dress code will typically be listed on the invitation. In general, dress codes that the engagement party might require include: Formal/black-tie Semi-formal Casual Cocktail attire Depending on things like the venue, time of day, and preferences of the individuals throwing the party, you may be expected to dress according to one of these dress codes. It’s a good idea to double-check what the expected dress code is before trying to figure out an outfit to wear, as you will want to make sure your options align with the formality of the event. In the case that the dress code isn’t listed on the invitation, you may need to contact the organizers of the engagement party and verify if there is an expected dress code. If the organizers have no preference, consider what you know about the season, venue, time of day, and party type (such as a formal dinner or an outdoor garden party). This will help you gain a general sense of the expected dress code. Consider the Season Taking into account the season and weather is an important part of picking your outfit for an engagement part. For example, you wouldn’t want to show up for a winter engagement party in a light, brightly colored blouse. Dress for the weather appropriately and include brighter colors and lighter fabrics for engagement parties during the spring and summer. For fall and winter engagement parties, heavier fabrics and neutral or subdued colors are perfect. Check the Venue Verifying the venue is another essential step in choosing what to wear to an engagement party. If the party is taking place at a more upscale venue, such as a country club or a nice restaurant, you will need to dress in more formal attire or cocktail attire. If the couple is hosting the engagement party somewhere outdoors or in a more relaxed venue, semi-formal or casual attire is likely appropriate. When considering the venue, also consider which shoes best work with the outfit. High heels and formal dress shoes for men are likely not the best choice for parties that are completely outdoors due to the risk of heels sinking into grass and shoes getting muddy. Consider the Time of Day The time of day is another important factor to think about when dressing for an engagement party. Daytime events tend to be more casual unless otherwise noted, and there is a higher chance that these events will take place outdoors. In these cases, lighter fabrics, brighter colors, and more casual clothing options might be appropriate. For engagement party events that take place in the evening, semi-formal, cocktail, or formal attire is typically the most fitting choice. Engagement Party Etiquette to Keep In Mind While dressing for an engagement party, you should keep these etiquette tips in mind so you don’t risk showing up with an inappropriate, attention-drawing outfit. Don’t Wear White As with all weddings, white is not a good color choice for your outfit. Men may be able to get away with wearing a white dress shirt when more formal or cocktail attire is required, but selecting a shirt with a tasteful pattern or partnering it with a suit jacket in a matching color other than white is essential. Women should never wear white dresses to anything wedding related, including the engagement party. Gowns that could resemble wedding dresses in more formal spaces should also be avoided. Dress in Layers If you aren’t sure what to expect from an engagement party, you should take care to dress in layers. Start with clothing that can be considered more casual as your base layer, and dress it up for a more formal vibe. This gives you the chance to adjust your outfit based on what others are wearing once you reach the party. In general, it’s better to be a little bit overdressed than underdressed at an engagement party. However, if you show up wearing a formal gown to a backyard BBQ, then you are far too overdressed and likely to cause problems Use common sense when layering your outfit and dressing up more casual items to make them formal. Avoid Bold Colors While bright colors are recommended for many spring and summertime engagement parties, especially events that are more casual, you should stay away from very bold colors. Bright yellows, pinks, greens, and neon colors will all attract attention away from the newly engaged couple, and you should be avoiding this. The goal of dressing appropriately for an engagement party is to show your support for the couple and somewhat fade into the background with your outfit. Pastel colors and light color choices are the best way to do this. Bring Back-Up Shoes When you aren’t too sure what a venue will be like or if there is a chance of inclement weather at a venue, it always helps to have a backup pair of shoes. Bringing a more casual pair of dress shoes for men or a pair of flats for women allow you to switch between formal and semi-formal or casual options as needed. Avoid Jeans and Denim Even if an engagement party is a more casual affair, avoiding jeans and other denim items is seen as good etiquette. If you are absolutely positive that a party is casual and the couple hosting the party has no problem with individuals wearing jeans to their party, choose a pair in a darker color. Stay away from ripped or distressed styles – these are too casual for even a casual engagement party and might leave you looking out of place. Celebrating Engagement the Right Way Engagement parties are a wonderful way for the newly engaged couple to mingle with their friends and family, celebrate their engagement, and announce an engagement to their loved ones. It might also be a way for one partner to pop the question to the other, surrounded by their friends and family. Whatever the specifics of the engagement party you’ve been invited to, it’s essential to dress appropriately when attending this event. Use our style guide to determine which outfit is the best choice for you as you attend an engagement party and celebrate the happy couple. Tags:  Party

Today’s fashion is filled with many choices, and between the fabric types, dress styles, and necklines, it can be overwhelming to select your next outfit. If you’re confused about necklines or new to navigating the world of necklines, our style guide is for you. Below, we give you essential information about some of the most popular types of necklines so you know what to look for next time you’re shopping for a flattering outfit. What Is a Neckline? The neckline refers to the part of a piece of clothing that sits at the top of an upper body garment. Every upper body garment has a neckline, from t-shirts to blouses, to wedding dresses and gowns. Both men’s and women’s fashion have necklines – they’re essential to the design of every upper-body garment created. Because necklines are so universal and important to clothing items, it’s no wonder that there are numerous different necklines with different intentions, such as to draw the eye up or down the rest of the outfit, highlight certain features, or solidify a specific style. The Importance of a Flattering Neckline Finding a flattering neckline is important and often a vital part of how you feel in an outfit. Understanding different necklines and their intentions will help you select one that best highlights your features, draws the eye to certain aspects of your outfit or figure, and completes the overall vibe you are demonstrating with your outfit choices. No matter which type of outfit you are selecting, a flattering neckline is one of the best ways to show off your unique style. Neckline Types You Should Know There are many different neckline types out there today, and every garment is enhanced by the choice of neckline. Whether you have a preference for one type or another, our overview of basic necklines will help you understand what to look out for when shopping for dresses, shirts, and other items. Asymmetrical Asymmetrical necklines are not the same on both sides. They typically feature higher neckline styles with cutouts to create shapes around the collarbone area, or they may be as simple as a one-shoulder design style. Many individuals may consider one-shoulder designs as their own separate neckline category, but because these necklines are not the same on both sides, they are technically in the asymmetrical category. Boat Also commonly called a bateau, boat necks sit under the collarbone. This type of neckline is designed to highlight the shoulder and neck; you may see it on light sweaters, short-sleeved tops, or dresses. The aim of the boat neck is to make narrow shoulders look a little broader, something that can help balance a figure with wider hips. Crew The crew neck is also often called a round neck, and it is a very common design for more casual clothing, such as t-shirts. Crew necks are a simple rounded shape, and they may start at the bottom of the neck or drop lower depending on the size and style of the garment. A variation on the crew neck is the split crew which features a slit around the middle of the neckline. This split may stand alone or have buttons included so it can be fastened according to the wearer’s choice. Cowl Cowl necks feature loose fabric draped along the neckline, which hangs around the neck and collarbone area. This style flatters many different figures and is especially popular in more formal shirts and blouses. Both thinner cowl necks with looser, more flowing fabrics and heavier cowl necks with more layers of fabric may be seen. Halter Halter necklines tie behind the back of the neck, and there is a great variety within this neckline type. You may have thin or thick straps or straps that twist in front of the neck before tying at the back. This neckline is designed to highlight the shoulders and draw the eye up, which can help balance outfits and figures. Illusion The illusion neckline is similar to the sweetheart neckline, as it gives the low-cut appearance of a strapless style, and many outfits with this neckline embrace the sweetheart shape. However, the illusion neckline will have a thin, almost transparent piece of fabric that often extends around the neck and connects to the rest of the dress. Illusion necklines are popular in wedding dresses or other gowns that are designed to look strapless without actually being strapless, and the fabric used to connect the neckline to the rest of the dress might be embroidered with lace or beads to add elegant detail. Keyhole Keyhole necklines are those that typically cover the collarbones and reach up to the neck but feature a keyhole cutout around the cleavage area. There may be a small keyhole or a large one, and the top of the keyhole might have a button or other fastener. You may commonly see this neckline on more formal shirts or blouses that are mostly modest with a hint of subtle sexiness. Off-the-Shoulder Off-the-shoulder necklines are exactly what they sound like – this neckline crosses underneath the collarbone area, and the straps wrap around the shoulders. They expose the collarbone, shoulders, and neck, and it is the perfect neckline style for warm weather or for drawing more attention to the décolletage. Plunging Plunging necklines are one of the sexier neckline types, and this neckline will plunge down past the breasts in women’s fashion. They could also stop higher, right below the cleavage area, or drop down lower to the belly button. The main intention of the plunging neckline is to draw the eye to the décolletage area, and this neckline is often seen in evening wear. Queen Anne The Queen Anne neckline is most commonly seen in formal wear and on wedding dresses, and this unique neckline features a sweetheart neckline with sleeves on either side. These sleeves wrap toward the back of the neck, leaving the collarbone and neck area exposed. Queen Anne necklines are best paired with simple jewelry to accentuate the collarbones and cleavage created by this design. Scalloped Scalloped necklines feature curved designs around the shape of the neckline; the scalloped design can be added to many other neckline shapes, such as crew necks, plunging necklines, or scoop necklines. Scoop The scoop neckline is similar to the crew neck in shape, but it tends to cut lower on the upper body. Scoop necklines will typically reveal collarbones and some of the décolletage area, and they are often seen on semi-formal clothing or office and workplace attire. Spaghetti Straps Spaghetti straps are another design element that can be added to many other necklines. Spaghetti straps are thin straps that hold the garment up and connect it to the rest of the garment. This design is commonly seen with sweetheart, V-neck, and square necklines. Square Square necklines have a square shape that typically cuts across the top of the bust and highlights the neck and collarbone area. They are fitting for both larger and smaller busts, and they can be combined with different strap types, such as halter necks and spaghetti straps. Strapless Strapless necklines have no straps to hold them up, instead relying on a tighter bodice to hold the garment up. These necklines typically cut across the top of the bust area and go underneath the arms, something that helps the garment stay in place. Most strapless necklines are seen in casual clothing or in semi-casual dresses. Sweetheart The sweetheart neckline is commonly strapless, but it may be combined with different types of sleeves or straps depending on the overall design. This design features a neckline that appears much like the top of a heart, with the top rounded shapes covering the top of the bust area and a slight dip in between to highlight cleavage. Sweetheart necklines are very popular in formal clothing and wedding gowns, but they may also be seen on more casual items too. This design highlights the shoulders, collarbones, and neck. Turtleneck Turtlenecks, also known as a high neckline, cover the neck and stop below the chin area. They may be lighter and thinner or feature extra fabric that piles up into layers under the chin. Because of the added warmth that turtlenecks provide, they tend to be a popular choice for winter clothing and are seen on many sweaters or long-sleeved shirts. U-Shaped The U-shaped neckline is similar to the scoop neckline, except it doesn’t make its way down toward the bust area as much. The U-shaped neckline tends to stop above the bust area and may show a little bit of cleavage. This neckline is a popular choice for t-shirts or other semi-casual clothing items. V-Neck V-necklines are flattering to most figures, and this neckline is created with two lines on the shirt dipping down to create a V shape. Both men’s and women’s fashion feature V-necks, and they may be more modest or have a deeper plunge that shows off more of the bust area. Which Neckline Is the Best Choice for Me? Choosing the best neckline for your figure can be confusing, especially when so many options exist. The key to choosing a flattering neckline is keeping in mind your specific body type and looking for a neckline to balance your body. For instance, if you know you have wider hips and more narrow shoulders, you may want a neckline that brings attention to the shoulders and makes them appear broader to balance your overall figure. In addition to these tips, you should keep in mind that whichever neckline you feel the most comfortable and confident in is the right choice for you. Confidence is one of the key items of fashion, and this is essential to have before more on to more of the nuances of design. Figuring Out a Flattering Neckline Figuring out which neckline is the most flattering might seem overwhelming when you first start looking into the many different types of necklines out there. Use our style guide to learn more about popular neckline types and select one that best suits your personal style and your natural body type. Tags:  Trending

Homecoming is a special occasion, and this celebration of your classmates, alumni, and school spirit often involves sports events, in-school activities, and a homecoming dance. For many, the homecoming dance is a way to show off your personal style and enjoy a fun night with friends on the dance floor. We know that choosing the perfect dress for homecoming takes a lot of effort, especially if you aren’t sure where to begin this search. That’s why we’ve put together a style guide that highlights 2023 homecoming dress trends to get you started with some style ideas. Below, you’ll find essential homecoming dress trends for 2022 and 2023, many of which are timeless classics that help you flaunt your unique style. The One-Shoulder Look Chic and elegant, the one-shoulder look is an effortless classic. There are plenty of choices in terms of dress color, style, and length, and the one-shoulder look spices up the bodice of whichever dress you settle on. One-shoulder dresses are popular as formal long gowns, but they also make great cocktail-length dresses. Choose whichever one fits your style and your homecoming dance theme the best. Ball Gown Glamor Ball gowns with full skirts definitely make a statement, and if you love the drama of a glamorous dress complete with layered skirts, this style of dress is for you. Ball gown-style dresses are best worn in formal situations, and you can select whichever color and embellishments you feel best suits your homecoming occasion. We recommend delicate jewelry and a pair of high heels to complete this glam look. Flashy and Eye-Catching Popular homecoming dress trends for 2022 and 2023 are dresses with flashy, eye-catching embellishments. Dresses with sequins, mirror cut-outs, and ribbons or metallic fabrics are all the rage. Select a bright silver or gold dress to make a statement at homecoming, or try a bright color like pink or blue for a flashy glam style. Subtly Stunning Plenty of homecoming dresses show just the right amount of skin, and if you’re a fan of this style, don’t hesitate to get one of these subtly stunning dresses. Most dresses designed in this fashion leave spaces for your shoulders, back, stomach, or most of your legs to show through. When paired with high heels and the proper accessories, these looks are stunning, subtly sexy, and sure to turn heads. Casual Cocktail Length If you’re shying away from a formal or longer gown, a more casual cocktail length dress is just the thing for you. This style typically falls around the knee or just above the knee, and cocktail dresses are great for almost every occasion. You can select from a variety of styles when it comes to cocktail dresses, choosing from tighter and more skin-hugging fabrics to casual dresses with flowing skirts. Plus, cocktail dresses are always in style, so you can be sure to be on top of homecoming dress trends for 2023 with this look. What Were the 2022 Homecoming Trends? Many of the trends that are stylish in 2023 are similar to ones that were popular in 2023. The primary difference is that 2023 calls for bolder, more daring versions of what 2022 offered. For instance, if you opted for a flowy, romantic gown in 2022 for homecoming or any other big event, this year, you may want to choose a full-on princess ball gown to really embrace the romantic vibes! Where Can I Find a Stylish Homecoming Dress? If one of these trending styles appeals to you, you are likely wondering where to search next for your homecoming dress. There are plenty of options including local boutique stores, dress stores in malls, and thrift stores. You can also utilize online homecoming and prom dress websites to filter your searches by style, size, and color to easily find a trendy homecoming dress that fits your personal style. Which Homecoming Dress Trend Is the Best? 2023 homecoming dress trends include timelines classics mixed with bold, bright colors. A cocktail length dress, a dramatic ball gown, or a simple formal gown highlighted by an off-the-shoulder look are all excellent choices to wear to your homecoming dance. As for which is the best, that’s for you to decide! Browse our dress collections to find a homecoming dress that resonates with your personal style and will let you feel your most confident during homecoming. A homecoming dress in any style that helps you have fun and feel great will be the best trend for you. Tags:  Homecoming

Prom dress shopping is an essential part of the prom experience, and many individuals look forward to the process of finding their dream prom dress. After all, there’s no better way to feel like a princess than by trying on different gowns either by yourself or with your friends. It’s important to plan what to wear prom dress shopping ahead of time so you can make this process as smooth as possible. Planning ahead means saving you time trying on dresses and decreasing any stress that might come with prom dress shopping. Our helpful prom dress shopping tips below are here to get you started on your journey to finding your dream prom dress. What Should I Wear Prom Dress Shopping? Prom dress shopping can be a long process, and you don’t want to wear clothing to your prom dress appointment or a boutique store that is hard to get out of. We recommend wearing something that is easily removed, such as a cotton t-shirt and shorts or leggings, so that you can change in and out of your street clothing into dresses with ease. If you think you will be wearing a bra with your prom dress, make sure to wear one when you go shopping. Then, you can get a better idea of what your prom dress will look like on the night of prom. You may also want to bring a pair of high-heeled shoes with you, or another pair of shoes similar to your prom night shoes. You can try them on with your dress options to get a better idea of what your entire outfit will look like. Prom Dress Shopping Tips The following prom dress shopping tips help you make the most out of trying on dresses so you don’t deal with stress and confusion during your planned shopping trips. Pick the stores you want to visit ahead of time and realistically plan time to spend in all of them. Eat something before you go – the best decisions are always made on a full stomach, especially if you are shopping for a few hours. Decide to bring a friend or two with you or ask a close family member to come. Wear an outfit that’s comfortable and easy to change out of, including comfortable shoes. Book appointments ahead of time at stores that require them, such as small boutique stores. Bring your phone or a camera to take pictures. You can look at these later to decide on the dress you want. Tips for Trying on Dresses After you’ve got the stores you wish to visit for a prom dress narrowed down, you should keep in mind these tips for trying on dresses to make sure you find the dress of your dreams. Make sure you are trying on dresses that are the correct size. Take note of how a dress fits on your shoulders and waist, as well as the length of the dress. Try on dresses with a variety of necklines to see which style suits you best. You should also try a variety of dress styles, such as mermaid and A-line to see which design most flatters your figure. Decide between sleeveless, strapless, and long or short-sleeved dresses. These items may need to be altered, so make sure you’re shopping with enough time for another fitting if alterations are needed. Choose a color based on your style and what suits your skin and hair tone. Pay attention to the fabric the dress is made out of and how comfortable it feels on your body. Finding Your Dream Prom Dress Finding your dream prom dress might seem like an overwhelming task, but it doesn’t need to be. When you keep our prom dress shopping tips in mind, you’re sure to make the most out of your prom dress shopping experience. Remember, shopping for your gown is part of the fun, so don’t rush through this part. Take it as a chance to really figure out which dress highlights your natural features and lets you look and feel your best. Tags:  Prom