Freshman Survival Guide To Homecoming

Homecoming is one of the most exciting events of the school year. Starting in October, local high schools will be launching parades, pep rallies, and spirit celebrations in preparation of their homecoming football game, topping the week off with an incredibly memorable dance.

Sometimes, school events like these can inspire a bit of anxiety. We totally understand! While the homecoming dance is a very special night, it is no reason to put pressure on yourself. Your hair, makeup, and outfit don’t need to be too extravagant. Homecoming is about feeling cute, comfortable, and having a good time. Don’t worry – you’ll still have prom one day if you want to go all out.

With Peaches’ guide below, we hope you can gather some tips that may be valuable in preparation of the Homecoming dance. Have fun!

Homecoming Dress Shopping

Homecoming Dress Shopping

Dress and shoe shopping is two things–fun and overwhelming. There are so many designs, patterns, and colors to choose from, but all that tulle and sparkles can send you into a tailspin. Since homecoming isn’t as formal as your first prom, keep these in mind for a less stressful day of shopping.

  • More often we see girls choosing strapless homecoming dresses. But be careful that it fits your upper frame, otherwise, you will be adjusting your dress all night.
  • Pick a length and cut that’s comfortable to dance and move in. A classy and short dress that falls just above the knees is formal enough & fun.
  • If you wear high heels, choose a shoe with a thicker heel and sole. This offsets the pressure when dancing, if you prefer not to get your dance on.

    • Or bring backups like:

  • Flats
  • Sneakers
  • Kitten heels

    • Date or No Date?

    Date or No Date?

    Whether you are asking, getting asked, or avoiding both, there are benefits to whichever one you choose! Let’s list them.

  • Don’t have a date:

    • You have the option to go with your single girl friends or a platonic guy friend. Then you don’t have to worry about awkward conversation or sweaty palms while dancing.

  • Asked or got asked:

    • Ask your date if they want to find a group of couples to go to dinner with, take pictures together, and hang at the dance. There is less pressure on you, and when you want to split from the group, you won’t upset anyone.

    Date or no date–it’ll be fun either way!

    Homecoming Beauty Prep 101

    Homecoming Beauty Prep 101

    A girl’s worst nightmare is to find herself stuck with a bad hairdo, orange spray tan, or raccoon eyes (dark eyeshadow isn’t for everyone) right before the night’s festivities. So follow these sweet and simple tips to avoid a beauty blunder!

  • Test your makeup before the night of the dance. You don’t want any last minute mishaps!
  • Schedule your hair appointment at least a month in advance. You don’t want to be competing for a stylist the week before homecoming.

    • Tip: If you pick an intricate hair style, ask your hairstylist if they can do a style test-run the week before.

  • To keep manicured nails chip free for the big night:
    • Don’t immerse hands in water for too long after getting your nails done
    • Moisturize your nails and cuticles every night
    • Be super careful during sport games and P.E.
  • Don’t immerse hands in water for too long after getting your nails done
  • Moisturize your nails and cuticles every night
  • Be super careful during sport games and P.E.

    • Tip: If the end of a nail chips, apply each tip with glitter polish for a glitzy coverup, just make sure it matches your dress.

    The Night of the Dance

    The Night of the Dance

    You got your dress, hairstyle, and makeup in check! To keep the night running smoothly without any snags, we have a few last-minute reminders for your first homecoming dance.

  • Get to your dinner reservation on time. Being more than 10 minutes late can result in you losing the table.
  • If someone from your group has a license and is hauling everyone to the dance, don’t be “fashionably late.” Chances are the high school parking lot is going to have limited parking spaces.
  • Instead of waiting in line for pictures, claim a table. Don’t worry, the line will die down in time for your photo-op! Plus, you want somewhere to sit when the Homecoming King & Queen are crowned!
  • And last, but most important, know the latest dance crazes, and we aren’t talking about the Cupid Shuffle. And we bet you know these songs!
  • Shmoney Dance
  • Do Yu Gudda
  • Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae)
  • Finna Get Loose