What to wear to a school prom
This is for students: a gown or a suit, formal and with shoes already broken in. Choose one dress or tuxedo you feel confident in, test it by sitting and dancing, and bring flats or plasters for the late evening.
Three outfits that work
Floor-length gown, gold heels, wrap
- burgundy floor-length gown
- gold strappy heels
- small gold clutch
- cream wrap
A floor-length gown suits the formal level of prom, and a wrap covers the shoulders outside or in a cool venue.
Tuxedo, white shirt, polished shoes
- midnight navy tuxedo jacket
- navy tuxedo trousers
- white dress shirt
- black polished shoes
A midnight-navy tuxedo looks formal under bright lights and in photos, and a white shirt keeps it classic.
Long-sleeve gown, hijab, block heels
- navy long-sleeve gown
- champagne hijab
- black block heels
- small gold clutch
A long-sleeved gown in a deep colour stays covered all night, and block heels are steadier on a dance floor.
By weather
| Hot22° and up | A light chiffon gown or breathable suit fabric, and shoes you can dance in. |
|---|---|
| Mild10° to 21° | A gown or tuxedo with a wrap or jacket for the walk in. |
| ColdBelow 10° | A warm coat that goes over the formal outfit, and warm tights or socks for the walk. |
Do and don’t
- Wear shoes that are already broken in
- Test the outfit by sitting, dancing and raising your arms
- Bring flats or plasters for later
- Tell your tailor or seller about the date so there is time to adjust
- Buy shoes on the day before
- Choose a gown you cannot sit down in
- Forget a wrap or jacket for the walk to the venue
- Leave alterations to the last week
Check the night before
- Try everything on, with shoes, a week before
- Check the venue’s dress code and rules
- Pack a clutch with phone, card and tissues
- Prepare plasters and flat shoes for later
- Hang the outfit and steam it
Questions people ask
What do you wear to an Abiball?
Students wear a gown or a suit or tuxedo, and guests wear smart or formal clothes. Floor-length dresses are common.
What shoes should I wear to prom?
Wear shoes you have already walked and danced in. Bring flats or plasters for later.
Can I wear a short dress?
Yes, many students do. For a formal Abiball, floor-length or midi is more common, so check the school’s guidance.
What should guests wear?
Smart or cocktail outfits: a dress or a suit. Avoid jeans and trainers.
Pick School prom in FeinLens and see what you already own
FeinLens builds complete outfits for this occasion from photos of your own clothes, dressed for the forecast where you’ll be.
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