Back-to-school season is always filled with exciting activities that help you say goodbye to summer and hello to a new academic year. From buying a new backpack to picking your first-day look, you just have to be there. But as you curate your back-to-school outfits for the new school year, there’s one you shouldn’t forget—homecoming dresses.
Preparing for homecoming, aka hoco, is one of the best parts of a new school year. Whether you’re a current student, an alumna, or on the planning committee, you need the best hoco dress to make it a perfect night. Below, we break down everything you need to know about the long-standing homecoming tradition and show you dress ideas to help you look your best while you have fun.
What is Homecoming?
Homecoming is more than simply “coming home.” It’s a week-long event that includes both students and alumni. It typically holds in September or October and doubles as a return-to-school celebration.
Every high school has its tradition, often filled with different activities, including football games, parades, pep rallies, and the homecoming dance. But generally, the event allows alumni to visit their high schools and see old friends, teachers, and underclassmen.
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How is Homecoming Different Than Prom?
While prom and homecoming are mega school dances, they aren’t the same. Proms are more formal than homecoming. Teenagers attend as couples, and the dance is reserved for upperclassmen, specifically juniors, seniors, or both, depending on the school. Typical prom outfits include floor-length dresses, tuxedos, or suits in different silhouettes and colors.
On the other hand, homecoming has a more relaxed vibe than prom. Students attend with a date or a group of friends. The dress code is semi-formal, with attendees wearing cocktail dresses, button-downs, and slacks.
The biggest difference between homecoming and prom dress codes is that homecoming dresses are shorter, staying above, slightly below the knee, or midi. They’re short, easy-to-wear, and perfect for any casual event where you want to feel sexy. Also, hoco dresses aren’t as pricey as prom outfits. However, both events allow you to showcase your style and personality.
What are the Best Homecoming Dresses?
When it comes to dressing for homecoming, comfort is key. It’s why many girls opt for cocktail dresses featuring various lengths (from short to midi), fabrics, silhouettes, and eye-catching details. These dresses are flirty, elegant, and often made from dressier fabrics like satin, velvet, or lace. Popular styles include:
Strapless Homecoming Dresses
These styles keep your shoulders and hands totally bare. They’re perfect for when you want to own the room with a dose of sensuality. Rock them as tube or sweetheart necklines and you’ll be a stunner.
Spaghetti Strap Homecoming Dresses
If you need that likkle likkle detail on your shoulder, go for hoco dresses with spaghetti straps. They add spice to your shoulders, especially if it’s a colorful dress.
Off-Shoulder Mini Dress
Off-the-shoulder hoco dresses are cute. They’re perfect for when you want the bareness of strapless and the coverage of sleeves.
Homecoming Dresses with Cutouts
Feeling sultry? Show some skin at strategic points like your waist, shoulders, or back with a cutout dress. They’re modern and sensual, and range from subtle to daring cuts.
Halterneck Homecoming Dresses
This style runs from the front of the dress to the back of the neck. It generally leaves the upper back uncovered. So, if you want to draw some attention to your neck and back, go for it.
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Corset Dresses
Want to look snatched as you do your homecoming dance? Its lace-up back and structured figure-flattering top create a cinched waist and an hourglass figure.
Flared Dresses
Flared dresses flatter most body types, whether you’re petite, curvy, or straight. The design enhances your natural curves and gives you an elongated silhouette. Unlike tight-fitting gowns, this one is flexible and allows for easy movement.
Flocked Dress
Flocked dresses have a velvet-like texture created by attaching short fibers to a base material. They have an aesthetic appeal with a rich, textured look. Wear one if you want to look luxurious and elegant.
Sequin Homecoming Dresses
Sequin dresses are a showstopper. The small, glittery pieces create a visually striking, glamorous, and attention-grabbing look. They’re a popular choice for celebratory occasions like homecoming.
Satin Hoco Dresses
Satin dresses offer a polished look with their soft sheen and smooth drape. After your hoco party, feel free to wear them to other casual or formal events.
Beaded Hoco Dresses
Beads transform your hoco dress into a stunning masterpiece. Work with a great tailor to create custom-made dresses with bead embellishments or simply buy one off the rack.
Backless Hoco Dresses
If you have a toned back, this dress is perfect for flaunting it to the world. They’re sultry, sensual, and leave anyone who stares at you gasping for more.
Choose the Best Dress for Your Homecoming Moment
Homecoming dresses exude a semi-formal look. When in doubt, opt for a cocktail-styled short or midi dresses that help you stay elegant. Prioritize fun silhouettes, varied fabrics, and embellishments like beads and sequins. They help you express your personality while adhering to your school’s dress codes. Homecoming events welcome playful and creative attire. So, don’t hesitate to wear dresses that express your unique style.
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