Homecoming (For the Ladies)

A major event of the school year, it is never too early to find an outfit. There is one thing that you need to know about semi-formal functions: you must wear a dress, and it should stay like a pop-in visit to your new neighbor, short and sweet. Main rule ladies: stay classy, not trashy. Everything depends on your figure and what you're comfortable wearing. Do not wear something that does not flatter you. Not as in shape as you would wish? Then don't wear a skintight dress, why wear clothing that gives you an unseemly figure when you can find a dress just as gorgeous that makes you look as fantastic as the fabric? (Answer: there is no reason.)

Now, dressy shmancy fancy events, such as Homecoming, are the perfect opportunities to act like a male peacock and strut your stuff so everyone knows that you are the absolute best person there. This may sound absurd and perhaps even primitive, but give in a little to those animal instincts to win the adoration of others, it’s not as crazy as it sounds, I promise.

To achieve this socially expected norm, you must assemble the perfect outfit. Step 1: find the perfect dress. It must be short, but not too short, or possibly long, but not floor length. Volume will give you a “I’m freaking adorable, look a how cute I am!” kind of feel. As opposed to the tightly fitted dress that is more “Oh hello there, I am gorgeous, look at me and be jealous.” Color and patterns are also the best way to stand out in a crowd. I once wore a tight fitting silver dress that basically made me look like a non-spherical disco ball. It looked wacky but fantastic. Hound’s tooth, plaid, neon, or just plain black can be fantastic options.

Step 2: shoes. The shoes you pick are essential, they complete an outfit. If your dress is busy with pattern and/or color, then I would highly recommend a pair of shoes that maybe have an interesting shape, but are toned down on color and lack pattern. The opposite goes, however for solid color dresses. Bright crazy shoes are exceptionally wonderful.

Step 3: tights. They can be wacky or plain, pick whatever you believe looks best. They are small, but essential.

Step 4: hair. Up-dos are most common for such events. I suggest if you do not decide to do the simple home style—such as straightening or curling—you should invest in going to your hairdresser and have them do something fantastic. Remember to match it to your outfit’s overall look. If you have a hard edgy look going on, try something sleeked back rather than curls.

Step 5: make-up. Go all out. Foundation, eye shadow, eye liner, mascara, lipstick, maybe even some blush. Do not, however, go to heavy on it. Looking like a clown did your make-up is the last thing you want. This step also includes nails. Nail polish is not exactly essential but does add a sophisticated touch.

Summary: A dress is necessary, stay classy, not trashy. Make everything you wear match, and be that peacock, shine your little geeky heart out and blow everyone away.