What to Wear to Homecoming
Sophie Diego
Table of Contents
We’ve all dreamed of our fairytale moment. It’s the dramatic walk down a spiraling staircase, the slow dance with your crush, and the twinkling lights that scream ‘kiss me’ when Ed Sheeran starts to play. Homecoming is a high school rite of passage, and everybody should enjoy at least one formal event before graduation.
Unfortunately, with the onslaught of COVID-19—some of us were robbed of our ‘main character moment.’ As a result, we’re not totally familiar with what’s considered in-season and what’s so yesterday. The pandemic has a funny way of distorting time.
In more encouraging news, some schools are starting to lift indoor restrictions. If you’re lucky enough to attend one of these institutions, chances are that homecoming is in full swing.
In the mess of homework, socialization, and extracurricular activities, the thought of what you’re going to wear on that special day is probably left on the back-burner.
For those unsure of what to wear to homecoming, consider us your digital fairy godmothers. We’ll reveal 12 different outfit ideas, ranging from sharp tuxedo looks to frilly princess dresses.
If you haven’t scored a date yet, we’re relatively sure that these OOTDs will guarantee a line out your front door.
What is Homecoming
Despite what pop culture says, homecoming is not a thriller series, a stand-up show, or a Kanye song. Instead, it’s a formal event often hosted in American high schools. Guests include current students, staff, and former alumni.
According to some institutions, it’s a way for graduates to visit their old stomping grounds. They’re typically held during football games and early September.
History of Homecoming
Not to be confused with prom, homecoming has a long-standing tradition that dates back to the early 1910s. The origin story behind this event is a bit blurry, given that some institutions claim that they were the first to host it.
The University of Missouri, Texas, and Illinois are typically considered the OGs in homecoming planning. All three schools made it custom to throw a celebratory event during sports matches and games. In some instances, a few institutions threw extravagant parties that included fireworks and parades.
With the yearly tradition of homecoming, high schoolers began to adopt other traditional customs such as corsages and wearing fancy dresses. Today, the event is still considered a rite of passage for many young adults.
What to Wear to Homecoming
Homecoming is your one excuse to look your absolute best. Despite what movies and TV shows tell you, it’s a matter of serious planning.
It involves months of Pinterest pinning, online shopping, try-on sessions, tailoring, makeup, and hair. For those in phase one, it’s important to consider the theme you’re dressing for. Homecoming can entail midnight in Paris, 1920s Great Gatsby, or masquerade.
For those in need of outfit ideas, we’re here to provide some much-needed inspiration. From well-tailored blazers to full-length gowns, we’ve got an arsenal of OOTDs lined up for you.
12 Outfit Ideas for Homecoming
Not a fan of bedazzled bustiers and sequin dresses? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered in our ‘what to wear to homecoming lineup.’ Considering that sage green and silk slips are all the rage this season, we thought it best to combine the best of both worlds by offering up this stunning gown.
Featuring a slim-fit dress, a subtle cowl neckline, and thin spaghetti straps, this number teaches us that simplicity can be beautiful too. Of course, don’t forget to accessorize with dainty jewelry!
Is it just me, or does this dress scream Teuta Matoshi vibes to you? Offered in the same silhouette and iconic bustier front, this gorgeous number features a gathered skirt and off-shoulder puffed sleeves.
It’s definitely a romantic look, as this knee-length gown is speckled with adorable white polka-dots. Dyed in pink, we highly recommend finishing the look off with matching stilettos and a 60s-style headband.
On the lookout for gender-neutral homecoming outfits? If so, there’s nothing wrong with the classic suit and tie combo. If you’re keen on going this route, we highly suggest tailoring your blazer and pair of trousers.
It’s a sure-fire way to look expensive without forking over hundreds of dollars. Opting for a monochrome fit is always the safest bet, as you don’t have to worry about color clashing. Obviously, no “James Bond lewk’ is complete with a set of Italian leather shoes.
It’s common to find a variety of homecoming dance dresses if you fire up the ol’ Google search engine. If you want to stand out amongst the crowd, why not opt for a stylish jumpsuit look? By no means are we suggesting wearing a pair of overalls.
Instead, we recommend an elegant silk number composed of a waist tie, a v-neck top, and wide-legged pants. Sophisticated and slimming in silhouette, this is the perfect number to wear to mitigate ‘Marilyn-Munroeing.’
Vintage in silhouette, this 1960s-inspired dress comes with an off-shoulder bodice and full-circle skirt. It’s definitely giving me Christian Dior’s New Look vibes due to the fit and flare of the gown.
Simple, understated, and beautiful, this ensemble is considered the ‘wall-flower of homecoming fashion.’ Since the dress is quite simple, we recommend donning some glittery heels and a bedazzled clutch to match.
Bored of the same black pantsuit shtick? We hear you loud and clear. If you’re in need of homecoming suits for guys that are exciting, we recommend this snazzy number.
Composed of beige plaid, this outfit comes with tailored trousers, a well-fitted blazer, a white-collared shirt, a gold tie, and of course—a matching corsage. It’s a refreshing take on a tired tradition, and it certainly screams homecoming instead of funeral.
Speaking of boring suit and tie combos, this stunning number offers a refreshing take that trendsetters are bound to love. This outfit features a pair of tailored trousers and a fitted blazer dressed in blue and turquoise plaid. Instead of opting for the usual white button-down, we recommend wearing a simple black crew-neck to keep things super casual.
Not only is this ensemble chic and playful, but this homecoming outfit is relatively affordable as well. You don’t have to fork over an extra $100 for Italian leather shoes, as you can simply swap them for black tennis sneakers.
For those still wondering what to wear to homecoming, we encourage you to read the party brief again. Dyed in soft chocolate hues, this retro look harbors a touch of 1970s funk perfect for disco-themed soirees.
It’s an excellent look to have if you want to stand out amongst a sea of ‘penguins.’ Made out of velvety-smooth velour, this pantsuit number is finished off with a colorful cravat for a pinch of spice. You’re welcome to add a pair of sunnies if you’re feeling especially extra.
Is your homecoming theme Boogie Wonderland? If so, we recommend donning a slim-fit disco suit made out of glittering silver sequins. Offered with a classic bell-bottom cut with a v-shaped bodice, this groovy number is for dancers only.
It’s relatively bright on the eyes. If anything, you can help cut party costs by being the actual disco ball. Perfect for those who love the center of attention, we highly suggest styling this look with stiletto heels and a faux fur coat.
So, what do girls wear to homecoming? If you were to ask Google, they’d probably provide you with hundreds of in-season dresses. While you’re welcome to don an Ashley Lauren or a Jovani, we like to turn the tables and say that pantsuits are also on the cards.
Conservative, full-coverage, and flattering to wear, the suit and tie combo is practically genderless. For instance, this stunning outfit features a double-breasted blazer and trousers dyed in orange. Complemented with white buttons, a turtleneck, and matching black shoes, it’s the ideal number to fashion for homecoming.
Short dresses are the easiest way to answer the ‘what to wear to homecoming’ question. While it’s standard practice to don a full-circle skirt moment, we understand that some guests prefer the classic mermaid fit.
For example, this gorgeous beauty features a body-con silhouette composed of a one-shoulder cut and an exaggerated poofed sleeve. The glittering tights and the black stilettos help to elevate the entire look.
As far as traditional silhouettes go, this homecoming dress is definitely out of the box. Composed of a four-tiered skirt, this romantic number features a series of vertical ruffles acting as the bodice.
It’s a beautiful look if you want to be that ‘it’ girl, as this beauty comes in light lavender with a touch of sparkle at the center of the neckline. For those who answered the ‘what to wear to homecoming’ with this dress, we recommend wearing a simple pair of nude heels with dainty diamond studs.
What Type of Homecoming Outfits Can You Get?
Homecoming outfits come by the hundreds. Despite the 12 we’ve featured, there’s a good chance that some of you feel overwhelmed by the number of options. Take a deep breath, and don’t freak out—we’re here to make the shopping process super simple for you.
To help our readers tackle the dreaded ‘what to wear to homecoming’ query, we’ll provide a summarized list of iconic fits to consider.
- Short dresses: considered a homecoming classic, you can never go wrong with a mini dress. Of course, this category comes with dozens of sub-categories, as you can opt for body-con silhouettes, poofy numbers, bedazzled designs, or simplistic styles.
- Long dresses: it’s not typically traditional for homecoming, but again—it depends on the high school. We recommend observing what other people will wear during the event before settling on a long dress.
- The suit and tie: Nothing looks more sharp and professional than a traditional blazer and trouser combo. Instead of opting for standard black and white, we recommend that you jazz things up a little by choosing plaid or colored designs.
- Jumpsuits: We’re not talking about overalls, rompers, or dungarees here. Instead, we’re referring to disco-themed one-pieces made out of glittering sequins and mesmerizing patterns. In our opinion, it’s the love child between short dresses and pantsuits.
How to Choose The Best Homecoming Outfits
There’s a reason why duck-tape dresses are considered an artistic challenge rather than a suitable homecoming outfit. It’s stiff, flimsy, and tacky in design. Those who prefer traditional formalwear should consider 3 factors when shopping: price, quality, and material.
It’s important that you address these points before answering the ‘what to wear to homecoming query,’ as it’ll help mitigate any seam rips, sizing frustrations, and design disappointment in the future.
For dresses, pantsuits, and jumpsuits, shoppers should be on the lookout for high-quality materials. This typically includes a mix of cotton, chiffon, silk, satin, corduroy, worsted wool, and flannel. If you’re wearing something tight, it’s essential to find an outfit that offers a wide degree of stretch. This includes fabrics such as elastane and spandex.
In addition, a good homecoming ensemble should come with a few integrated features, like pockets, built-in bra support, or a tulle petticoat for added structure.
Of course, a well-constructed homecoming outfit will be expensive. All of these factors depend on your overall budget—but we recommend staying below the $1,000 limit, as that should only be reserved for prom.
How to Style Homecoming Outfits
Homecoming isn’t the time to be boring. It’s a celebration: an event that congratulates its students for their hard work and dedication. Whether you’re dancing with friends or on a romantic date, it’s important that you look your absolute best. Below, we’ll share some styling tips to consider wearing with dresses, pantsuits, and jumpsuits.
- Jewelry: this styling tip is a no-brainer. You want to draw as much attention to your face as the center of attention shouldn’t be your outfit. While homecoming is all about ‘going out,’ we recommend keeping things simple with a dainty necklace or pair of earrings.
- A colorful suit or bow tie: This isn’t a funeral or a wedding. Homecoming celebrates color, which is why you should definitely swap black for paisley print or bright blue.
- Sneakers instead of loafers: Compared to prom, homecoming is a lot more casual. You can always sub your Oxfords with Converses for a more laid back look.
- Kitten heels: If you answered the ‘what to wear to homecoming’ question with a dress, you should definitely consider wearing kitten heels instead of 5-inch stilettos. Your feet will thank you later.
- The corsage: considered a must-have for homecoming and prom, we recommend wearing something that matches the color of your corsage.
Fashion Tips to Avoid With Homecoming Outfits
If you’ve figured out what to wear to homecoming, it’s time to address some fashion faux pas. Believe me, there’s a lot to unpack when it comes to styling no-nos. If you don’t want to stick out like a sore thumb during ‘Thinking Out Loud,’ here are some tips to avoid:
- Anything that isn’t a pair of tailored trousers: jeans, cargo shorts, and sweatpants are not to be worn at homecoming. If you intend on wearing bottoms, we recommend pleated trousers only.
- Ballgowns: as we mentioned before, homecoming is a lot more casual than prom. For those who want to wear a long dress, make sure that it’s simple in design and free of a train.
- Super-casual wear: I know, we already stated that homecoming is more laid back than other high school events. But, you shouldn’t take it as an opportunity to wear leggings, biker shorts, or socks with sandals.
- Extreme heels: it’s rather tempting to don a pair of 5 inch pumps to homecoming, but we highly recommend opting for 4 inches or less. Believe me, you’ll want to remove your shoes after an hour of dancing in them.
- Revealing clothing: this applies to dresses, jumpsuits, and suit-and-tie combos. You don’t want to wear something that shows too much skin. As always, it’s a good idea to skim through your school’s dress code.
How To Take Care Of Homecoming Outfits
Considering that most homecoming outfits stay in the closet for years-on-end, there’s a good chance that you won’t need to maintain them. But, if you’ve run into stains, wrinkles, and other emergencies on the day before, here are some ways to clean your ensemble at home:
- Read the laundry tag before throwing it in the laundry. Most garments can’t be machine washed, so it’s important to read the cleaning instructions first.
- If it’s laundry friendly, turn it inside out, wash it with cold water with mild detergent.
- If it’s hand washed, use a small mix of mild detergent with cold water to rub out any stains.
- All homecoming outfits should be air-dried.
- Stay away from bleach and hot water, as both substances can lead to color fading or bleeding.
- Some garments may need to be dry-cleaned. In this case, it’s probably best to leave it to a professional instead.
Best Places to Buy Homecoming Outfits
Congrats! You finally know what to wear to homecoming. Once you’ve completed your vision board, it’s time to do some shopping.
For those unsure of where to start, we’ll share some reputable places to support:
- Jovani
- Nordstrom
- Windsor
- Lulus
- For Love & Lemons
- Nasty Gal
- Indochino
Final Thoughts
High school is a hassle-and-half. Sure, it’s a time of self-discovery, making long-lasting friendships, and uncovering your passions. On the other half, it’s a lot of homework, deadlines, and trying to maintain a decent level of socialization.
Can we get a round of applause for our hardworking students? You guys deserve a special occasion to unwind, relax, and have fun. That’s where homecoming comes in.
Hopefully, you’ve gathered some inspiration from our ‘what to wear to homecoming’ lineup. From sharp tuxedo looks to poofy dresses, we’re sure that you’ll be the belle of the ball when the moment arrives.
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