Valerie Meyerovich ’26
EE Staff Writer
In recent years, social media has become increasingly hyper-focused on girls’ prom dresses, turning what should be a fun and memorable experience into quite the opposite. As prom season rolls around, many girls go to platforms like TikTok to share videos of themselves twirling around and showing off their dresses. Most are hoping for compliments or friendly comments, like “Where did you get it from?” or a “Looks stunning!” But instead, what many receive is harsh criticism and just general hate comments from complete strangers.
Lately, one of the most common criticisms and controversies revolves around dresses supposedly resembling “Easter dresses” rather than what’s traditionally expected for prom. These “Easter” dresses typically feature floral prints, pastel colors, and lighter fabrics. They’re usually not super sparkly, poofy, or dramatic. They lack the extravagance of typical, old-fashioned prom dresses and that alone has made them controversial and a subject of ridicule.
The thing that most people online don’t realize is that these dresses are often chosen intentionally to embody the wearer’s personal style or comfort. Not every girl wants a bedazzled gown or a sequin dress. Many are embracing more mellow looks that feel truer to who they are. Fashion is always evolving, and prom fashion is no exception. The idea that there is only one “right” type of prom dress feels very old and outdated, especially in a time when society is developing so much and when individuality is supposed to be celebrated.
Still, social media often focuses on conformity. Influencers influence, and teenagers listen. Once a trend arises, everyone wants to jump on the bandwagon, simply to avoid being judged for not participating in it. It’s like a wave of conformity, where everyone is fighting to fit in. The pressure to dress a certain way to avoid being made fun of is a true battle that many teenage girls face.
At the end of the day, a prom dress should make the person wearing it feel confident, beautiful, and like themselves. They shouldn’t be seeking approval from strangers online. Whether it’s dramatic or floral, prom dresses should focus on personal desires, not internet trends. So the next time you see someone in a dress that doesn’t fit your idea of what prom “should” look like, maybe ask yourself: does it really matter, as long as they love it?
Photo Credit: sustainablebaddie.com