[Meta: Homecoming dresses come in a variety of styles, though many of them are short. Our article explains why homecoming dresses tend to be on the shorter side.]
Homecoming is a major event for many individuals, and getting the correct outfit for your homecoming dance is essential. Short dresses are commonly seen at homecoming events, but you may be wondering why this seems to be a major trend.
Our article gives you information about why short dresses are so popular at homecoming in addition to style advice to help you decide between long and short dress styles so you can find the best homecoming outfit for you.
The Convenience of a Short Dress
Most homecoming events happen in the first half of the school year, and homecoming is typically a week-long period of school spirit events and football games that culminates in a homecoming dance. The homecoming dance is often strongly anticipated, and most schools treat the homecoming dance as a semi-formal event.
Short dresses tend to be the dominant style at homecoming dances because they fit this semi-formal theme more easily. Most short dresses are versatile, and they can easily be more casual than a full-length gown, plus they are more convenient to wear for individuals that plan on dancing the night away.
Additionally, short dresses have a range of styles and embellishments that allow individuals to embrace their individual style, all while being comfortable. Short dresses are typically lighter and more comfortable than a formal long dress.
It’s important to keep in mind your school’s homecoming dress code rules, as many welcome short dresses that adhere to the semi-formal vibe of the event, but there may be dress code restrictions that apply to the exact length of your short dress.
For most individuals, a short homecoming dress that falls around the mid-thigh or knees is the best way to show off their style with the convenience of a short dress and remain within dress code rules.
Should I Get a Long or Short Homecoming Dress?
The decision between a long and a short homecoming dress is totally up to you and what you are comfortable with. Review our pros and cons of homecoming dress styles below to get started thinking about the style that suits you best.
Homecoming Dress Pros and Cons
A short dress is a common choice for homecoming events. Short dresses may be preferable because they:
- Allow for more ease of movement when dancing
- Are typically lighter and more comfortable than longer styles
- Allow you to show off your legs and a great pair of shoes
- Tend to fit more semi-formal events and are more versatile for other occasions
Reasons you might not want a short homecoming dress include:
- You want a more formal style
- Short dresses aren’t your thing and you prefer the fit of a longer style
- Your homecoming event specifies that formal and long styles are necessary as part of an event dress code
- You love the elegant look of long dresses and want the chance to wear one
Every individual is different, and the choice between a long and short dress is yours alone. Make sure to really think about which would make you the most comfortable and ensure you have a night filled with fun, instead of a night worrying about your homecoming dress choice. We also recommend viewing Sherri Hill’s homecoming dresses, since they have both long and short options – as well as jumpsuits and two pieces.
Important Homecoming Style Considerations
The following homecoming style considerations are important to keep in mind as you decide between a long and a short homecoming dress, and as you pick out which style of homecoming dress suits you best.
Before starting your search for the perfect homecoming dress, consider:
- Your school’s dress code – there may be a length requirement or regulations about sleeves and the types of dresses or suits that may be worn to homecoming.
- Your comfort level – only select a dress style that you are comfortable wearing and won’t be worried about all night. No one wants to spend their homecoming worried about a wardrobe malfunction.
- Specific homecoming styles – there may be a theme you want to match for your homecoming dance, or a specific style of dress that you know is the most flattering on your figure.
- Your homecoming location – outdoor and indoor events require different accessories, such as jackets, and you want to make sure you dress appropriately for the expected weather.
- Accessories – these are an important part of styling your homecoming dress, so if you have accessories you love, keep that in mind when choosing your homecoming dress style.
You should also consider any pre and post-homecoming plans that you may have with your friends or a date when choosing your homecoming outfit and packing a bag of homecoming essentials.
Selecting the Perfect Homecoming Dress
Whether you opt to follow the trend of short homecoming dresses, or you want to embrace a longer dress style, you should always select the homecoming dress that you will be most comfortable in.
Make sure you review our homecoming style considerations above in addition to the pros and cons of wearing a shorter dress before you make a final decision on which length of homecoming dress to invest in.
