Prom Dress Fashion: A Brief History

As spring rolls around, many high school students have only one thing on their minds–prom! It’s that time of year when eager conversations fill the halls as friends indulge in crucial prom-planning discussions: who’s bringing who, who’s eating where, and–most importantly–who’s wearing what. 

Prom as an American high school tradition began in the early 20th century. As with any formal event, fashion quickly became the centerpiece of the occasion. During the 1930s, drop-waist velvet gowns were incredibly in vogue. However, as wartime set in during the 1940s, imposed national fabric rations produced slimmer silhouettes and simpler garments. One’s shoulders were typically covered, as modesty was championed as an American virtue during the time.

As the 1950s emerged, so did the popularity of tea-length, full-skirted dresses. Ruffles and tulle were especially trendy, as many girls sought to emulate the “Little Bo Peep” look. Chiffon sashes and flower detailing were considered peak accessorization at the time. Satin and lace gloves were also considered particularly stylish.

By the 1960s, empire waistlines had risen in popularity, as well as slimmer skirts and pastel color schemes. Many prom-goers opted for knee-length sheath dresses rather than the formal gowns of previous decades.

With the arrival of the 1970s, we also see the emergence of long-sleeved prom dresses. Most 70s prom gowns were long, flowy synthetic blends with higher waistlines. If a dress featured sleeves, they were typically sheer and blousy. Ruffles once again became quite popular, as well as eyelet lace. 

The 1980s seized the 70s’ love of ruffles and RAN with it. Tulle was back, this time with a penchant for polka dots. By the mid-80s, floor-length gowns were out. Of course, what these new dresses lacked in length they certainly made up for with volume. The short satin pouf was all the rage, with the addition of a positively enormous bow for good measure. 

80s prom: Big hair, big bows, big ruffles, and wrist corsages galore!

Prom dresses of the 1990s reflected a shift toward minimalism which had set in by the late 80s. Off-the-shoulder mini dresses began to rise in popularity, as well as sleek spaghetti-strapped slip dresses. Satin still remained the most coveted gown material. 

The 90s’ love of satin carried into the 2000s. The halter top became a popular dress style in the early 2000s, with these gowns sporting unusually high necklines. Two-piece dresses reminiscent of Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera were super trendy, with red, light pink, and purple being the most fashionable color selections. These dresses also often featured sequin detailing.

Colorful charmeuse gowns exploded in popularity upon the arrival of the 2010s. These dresses typically featured short, figure-hugging bodices, tulle skirts, and LOTS of beading. Bold colors were in–royal blue in particular was quite a trendy color of choice during this decade. Asymmetrical necklines and cutouts became common gown features. Skirts of dresses ranged from tight and form-fitting to wide and flowing. Prom dresses in the 2010s were almost exclusively floor-length.

Sequin detailing and cutouts are some of the most notable aspects of 2010s prom gowns, although these became less extreme as the decade progressed.

And now, in the 2020s! Specifically in 2024, many teenage girls have come to embrace pastel color schemes in their prom attire. Jewel tones are still popular, but these more colorful dresses tend to be less flashy than their 2010s counterparts. Many girls are seen sporting sage and emerald greens, deep reds, and black. Corset detailing has been quite popular for a few years now, as well as the sweetheart neckline and basque waistline. 

One particularly recent fashion development is the emergence of “brunch” prom attire–many girls are choosing to sport floral, pastel maxi dresses this year, rather than a more traditionally formal gown. This abandonment of typical formality marks a shifting perspective on teenage fashion–one that is lighter, more playful, and relaxed. 

Overall, prom fashion has always mirrored the most popular styles of the time. Even today, an appreciation for vintage prom attire still lingers; some teens aim to emulate the luxurious velvet dresses of the 1930s, while others embrace the lace of the 1970s. By incorporating styles of previous generations into contemporary clothing, today’s teens showcase a unique appreciation for creative expression and individuality through fashion.

Happy Prom, Patriots! What is your favorite decade of prom fashion?