Prom dress inspiration for girls
The perfect outfit for your graduation ceremony: tips to look elegant & sophisticated
Receiving your high school diploma on stage marks the end of your time at school and graduation is an important milestone in your life. This is a smart occasion for which you will need an elegant and chic outfit that is more understated than your prom outfit.
Below we will give you some ideas for your graduation outfit:
Graduation ceremony dresses
A dress is always a good choice for a graduation ceremony. Mid-length summer dresses that don't show too much skin are optimal. However, you can't go wrong with either a simple A-line dress or a knee-length cocktail dress. Subtle colours such as pastel shades, classic colours such as black, grey, dark blue or understated patterns look chic and are suitable for such an occasion.
It's best to choose comfortable shoes to wear with your graduation ceremony outfit, as you will be standing a lot. A pair of flat sandals or ballerinas are ideal, but shoes with a low heel are also an option.
Graduation ceremony dress alternatives
If you'd prefer not to wear a dress to your graduation ceremony, there are stylish alternatives for your graduation ceremony outfit that are just as elegant:
A chic jumpsuit in a classic colour such as black or trendy pastel tones will give you a modern look that exudes elegance.
A tailored trouser suit is also a great choice. Paired with a feminine blouse, it looks smart yet understated.
For an elegant but casual look, you can pair a skirt with a stylish blouse. Alternatively, you can pair a chic blouse with a pair of elegant trousers.
Prom dresses: tips & inspiration
Going to a prom is a major highlight for many and the perfect occasion to dress elegantly and formally. It is one of the rare occasions in life when you can wear an elaborate ball gown if you so wish. Alternatively, you can opt for something more modern, such as a trouser suit or a jumpsuit in which you will look equally stunning. Thus, if you are on the lookout for the perfect prom outfit, we have plenty of ideas and tips for you.
Prom dresses that flatter your body type
A classic, floor-length ball gown is one of the most popular outfits for a prom. It exudes elegance and creates a formal look that perfectly suits this type of occasion. However, there are different types of dresses, each with their own charm:
Princess dress/duchess cut: the shape of this dress is perfect if you want to look particularly glamorous. This type of dress has a voluminous skirt, which can consist of several layers of tulle and a tight-fitting top. If you are looking for that “wow”-factor, then this is the dress for you.
Mermaid dress: if you prefer a figure-hugging shape, a mermaid dress might be the cut for you. This style has a tight-fitting cut and flares out slightly from the knees downwards, giving it a particularly elegant look.
A-line dress: this classic dress shape is characterised by a figure-hugging top and a loose skirt that flows outwards in an A-shape. The A-line dress flatters most body types and is an elegant but more modest choice.
Empire dress: the Empire dress is particularly suitable for those who prefer a more romantic look. It is characterised by a high waist which starts under the bust and a flowing skirt that falls loosely. This cut will visually elongate your figure and make you look more petite.
Short dresses (mini dress & shift dress): if you prefer a youthful, modern look, short dresses are a great option. A mini dress looks fresh and bold, while a shift dress conveys elegance and class with its straight, flowing cut.
Even if this type of occasion calls for a more elegant look, you should stick to your own style and make sure you feel comfortable in your prom dress. There are no limitations on the colours you can wear, so you can let your personal preferences guide you. However, it is important that your prom dress fits well and gives you enough freedom of movement. After all, you will be spending most of the evening on the dance floor.
Girls’ prom outfit ideas: jumpsuit & trouser suits
Traditionally, a dress is the first choice for many women when searching for a prom outfit. However, nowadays there are a lot of modern alternatives that can look just as smart. If you are not a fan of dresses or if you are looking for something unusual, the following options might offer you the alternative you’ve been looking for.
Girls’ prom outfit ideas: jumpsuits
A jumpsuit is the perfect choice for women who prefer a modern, stylish look. It combines the elegance of a dress with the comfort of trousers. Therefore, it is a great option as a prom outfit, in which you can comfortably stand, sit and dance all evening. Make sure that the jumpsuit you choose fits well and offers you enough freedom of movement. Precious fabrics such as silk or satin will give your jumpsuit that extra air of elegance for your prom.
Discover our range of jumpsuits
Girls’ prom outfit ideas: trouser suits
A smart trouser suit is a classic alternative if you don't want to wear a dress to your prom. It’s a unique and sophisticated look that will set your outfit apart from traditional prom outfits. Whether you opt for a classic black trouser suit or play with colours such as dark blue, bordeaux or even pastel tones, there is a wide range of trouser suits available to match your personal style.
It is important to choose good quality fabrics such as satin, silk or a fine crepe to give your prom outfit a smart touch. When it comes to the cut, you can match a fitted blazer with a pair of slim-fit trousers to give your overall look a slender appearance. Alternatively, you can opt for a pair of wide-cut trousers such as culottes to make your outfit look more modern.
The perfect outfit for your prom: accessories
To finish off your prom outfit perfectly, you will need the right shoes and accessories. We have put together some tips to help you complete your outfit:
Shoes for your prom outfit: make sure that your shoes not only look chic but are also comfortable. High heels give you an elegant silhouette, but you should be able to walk in them safely. Alternatively, a pair of pretty ballerinas, elegant sandals or cute Mary Janes are also good choices.
Tip: take a pair of flat shoes with you for the evening hours in which you can dance well.Jewellery for your prom outfit: when choosing the jewellery you want to wear, you should make sure that it complements your look. If you are planning on wearing an elaborate dress or jumpsuit, then the rule ‘less is more’ applies. If your outfit is plain, you can opt for more extravagant jewellery, such as large earrings or a statement necklace.
A bag for your prom outfit: a small clutch is ideal for a prom as it looks elegant and gives you just enough space for the most important things such as your mobile phone, lipstick and so on.
Conclusion: make your prom unforgettable with the perfect outfit
Whether you opt for a classic dress, a modern jumpsuit or a trouser suit, it is important that you feel comfortable in your prom outfit and stick to your own style. The right accessories and a matching hairstyle will complete your look perfectly and make you stand out from the crowd. Your prom is a once-off occasion, so choose an outfit that will make this special evening unforgettable.
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The image sources in this text are in chronological order
Cover photo: iStock.com/PeopleImages
1st image in text: iStock.com/urbazon
2nd & 3rd image in text: C&A
4th image in text: iStock.com/wanderluster
All other images in text: C&A