It’s the same questions every year: dates, shoes, after parties. The to-do list for Homecoming is extensive and seemingly endless.
As the dance always causes such controversy and drama at the start of every school year, I’m here to settle some debates.
Should I get a boutonnière or corsage for my date?
Boutonnières and corsages are potentially-outdated-but-classic flower accessories that people typically buy for their date and wear for dances and formal events like Homecoming. They typically cost between $15-45 — which can be a high price tag considering they fall apart the moment you hit the dance floor. Not to mention putting them on is a nightmare.
People already tend to spend a lot of money when it comes to school dances. The cost of homecoming — with clothes, accessories and whatever other expenses come up — can range from $100 to $300 which leaves me wondering, is it even worth it to add even more expenses with a boutonnière or corsage.
The remaining flowers tend to die after a day making the once beautiful bracelet or pin completely unrecognizable. So if you want to buy your date a corsage: go for it! But if you’re looking to cut down on expenses, start off by cutting out the corsage.
Should I go with a date or with a group?
There’s a lot of pressure to go with a date to school dances. A lot of people feel pressured to have a date to the dance out of fear of being the only single check at the table, but having a date isn’t as great as it seems.
In the scramble to find a date, people are often stuck with someone they don’t even know — or like. If you find yourself in this desperate situation, it’s not worth the awkward dinner and pressure to be with a less-than-ideal date for the entire night.
Unless you’re dating or actually friends with your homecoming date, you shouldn’t stress about finding someone last minute because going with your friends in a group can be just as — if not — more fun.
Where should I get my dress for homecoming?
Shopping for homecoming dresses can be the best or worst part of the whole ordeal. Some people order one dress and are absolutely in love, while others scour every website and just can’t seem to find the dress.
A few of the most popular sites are Lucy In the Sky, Revolve or Free People. These places all have beautiful dresses and a huge selection to choose from but tend to be pricey. If you’re having trouble finding a dress, those three are a safe bet.
Some people also feel like they need to get a new dress for every school dance, but the perfect outfit could be as simple as a re-wear. You could borrow from a friend or older sister or thrift a dress. And if you love your dress: rewear it! There shouldn’t be pressure to drop $70 every three months on a new dress to wear once. Just wear what you feel good in, especially if it’s a one-time-wear.