Homecoming is one of the most exciting events of the school year for teens, often a week-long event, ending with a formal attire dance for all high school classes. In the weeks before, you might wonder what to wear to a homecoming dance.
If you’re planning your outfit or helping a teen get ready for homecoming, here are some of the things to keep in mind.
What Is the Homecoming Dance?
Homecoming (often shortened to Hoco) is one of the most exciting events of the school year. It happens near the beginning of the school year, often following a week of celebrating school spirit and the high school football homecoming game. Homecoming is a time to welcome back alumni and hype up the current school body. The homecoming dance ends the week, marking a celebration of the year to come.
The homecoming dance isn’t as fancy as prom and is open to all high school grade levels, whereas prom is just for juniors and seniors.
What to Wear to Homecoming
Homecoming outfits depend on your school and what they traditionally wear for the dance. No matter what the dress code for your school, you should always try to follow the school dress code to avoid any issues. Make sure to wear something that fits comfortably so you can dance and that makes you feel good about yourself and expresses your style.
Teens will want to wear something comfortable and flattering. Think beyond the perfect pose in the mirror and consider whether or not it is good for dancing.
What to Wear to Homecoming for Girls
Girls often wear short semi-formal dresses to homecoming. A long dress is okay for homecoming, too, but it’s normally saved for prom.
A girl could also pull off a romper or jumpsuit. You can wear any formal attire, though, just go for what looks and feels good so you can have the best time. If you want to stand out, choose a dress with sequins or glitter so it sparkles on the dance floor.
If your high school does semi-casual homecoming attire, you can wear a long maxi or a short party dress.
Many girls are opting for two-piece outfits, with a skirt and flashy matching top.
What to Wear to Homecoming for Guys
Many boys wear a formal suit to homecoming, so a two or three piece suit can be ideal. Boys can also ditch the jacket and wear a collared shirt and tie instead. It’s not quite as formal as prom, so it’s okay to not go all out, even if some do.
Homecoming shoes for guys can be any type of dress shoe that matches their attire, like oxfords or loafers. If you want to go all out, try some dress shoes with tassels or sparkles. Sneakers are also an option, but they should add to the outfit instead of looking like an afterthought.
Accessories For Homecoming
With the right outfit, accessorizing for homecoming can be easy. You might only need a simple necklace and bracelet, but you can always do something more flashy if that’s your style. Other options to consider are hair accessories, a jacket, or flashy shoes to make your outfit pop.
Accessories can set your homecoming outfit apart and give you a chance to emphasize your personal style. It can be a thoughtful part of your look that makes all the difference and makes you feel good in what you’re wearing.
Other Common Homecoming Questions
Is There a Dress Code for Homecoming?
Some schools have dress codes while others just follow years past. Even if others dress a specific way, if it’s allow, you might be able to wear whatever is comfortable for you. Reddit user MileHighCat1807 shares, “I’m a guy tho (should have mentioned that) I was planning on wearing a black hoodie and jeans and I don’t have any fancy pants.”
Do You Use a Corsage for Homecoming?
Corsages for homecoming are popular, especially if you have a date to bring you one. Of course, you can get one for yourself either way, but you also don’t have to wear one. If you have a corsage, you can pin it to your dress or wear it on your wrist.
Should Boys Wear Boutonnieres?
A boutonniere is the male equivalent of a corsage, and it’s pinned to the suit jacket. If one of you is wearing a corsage, a boutonniere is fitting for homecoming.
Should You Wear a Tie or Bowtie to Homecoming?
You can wear either a tie or bowtie to homecoming, depending on the look you’re going for. One idea to consider is matching the tie or bowtie to the date’s outfit.
What to Wear to Homecoming if You Don’t Have a Suit?
Aside from a suit, boys can wear dress pants and a button-down shirt or polo. They can also add a blazer or sports coat to add a finishing touch to the look.
Should You Color Coordinate With Your Date?
If someone said yes to your homecoming proposal, you should discuss whether or not to coordinate! You don’t have to match outfit colors with your date, but it does make the event more enjoyable while making teens feel more connected. Color coordinating with your date also makes for better photos. If you’re going with friends, you can even consider planning a color palette or trend with them.
What to Wear to Homecoming If You Don’t Want to Wear a Dress?
At most schools, you don’t have to wear a dress to homecoming if you don’t want to. You can wear a romper or jumpsuit to dress up for the occasion, and they’re easy to accessorize.
Another option is to wear a suit, with both flashy suits with sequins or more traditional suits being alternatives to wearing a dress to homecoming. You could also opt to wear slacks and a nice top. The goal is to wear what makes you most comfortable while feeling your best.
Do You Have to Wear Heels to Homecoming?
You can wear whatever shoes you want to homecoming! Choose something that matches your outfit but is also comfortable for dancing. Some girls even choose to take off their heels to dance, so you could consider bringing a pair of flats!
What Color Should I Wear to Homecoming?
You can wear whatever color you want to homecoming, just focus on what you feel good in. If a specific color looks good with your tone, try on outfits in that color. Otherwise, choose your favorite color or the dress that suits your style.
Where Can You Buy a Homecoming Outfit?
If you don’t know where to look, shopping for a homecoming outfit can become more complicated. Look for stores at your local mall that sell formal or semi-formal attire, browse local boutiques, or look at thrift shops for hidden gems.
Can I Wear Jeans to Homecoming?
Homecoming is too formal for jeans, with semi-formal often being the minimal dress code. Some schools might have a relaxed feel for homecoming, and jeans could be okay, but double check before planning your outfit. If you wear jeans to homecoming, you can dress them up by adding a dress shirt or blazer to the look.