Prom: one of the rare things that all high schoolers have in common. People of all ages and generations share memories of this big event. Throughout the years with the changing of decades, prom stylings have changed dramatically.

Many students have probably heard stories of their parents’ prom nights.

The first thing that comes to mind is how celebrated dancing was back then. Some schools had dances after every home football game. The excitement of the those times just seemed greater; nowaday, proms don’t showcase such an anticipation for a night of dancing.

You would never be caught dead in your mother’s prom dress. Big poofy sleeves, ruffles and teased hair was the picture-perfect style at the prom. It was a special night when people could see everyone dressed up. Although a little showy for this day and age, the attire was modest and formal.

High schoolers today are a little less formal when it comes to the prom. Dresses have changed from pales and neutrals to brighter colors. Many girls get two-piece or form-fitting dresses, and many have sequins or sparkles as well. Girls go get their nails, hair and makeup done, and proms are almost never just in school gymnasiums. Prom expenses have increased, much like all expenses do over time.

Another stylistic change more recent over the last couple of years is the flowers. Wristlets are no longer the top pick. More often than not, girls carry bouquets that they lay on the table as soon as they get to the prom instead of wearing a corsage dangling on their wrists for the rest of the night.

“Students don’t seem as excited for proms. When I was in high school, the proms were a big deal. Now, it almost seems like a chore or something students don’t pay attention to,” Mr. Andrew Smink, English teacher, said.

Fewer prom couples are actually dating nowadays. Some are, but most just go with each other as friends. This is definitely a little different than when our parents went to the prom.

“My senior prom date is very special to me. We ended up getting married a few years later and have been together ever since,” Mrs. Donna Skosnick, math teacher, said.

One of the recent changes to the whole aspect of going to the prom is…

“Promposals? What the heck are these things? Just ask someone to go with you,” Mrs. Katie Koneschusky, biology teacher, said.

Proms are a long running tradition in high school that started in the 1930s. Anyone who has ever been to a high school prom shares this night of dancing and hanging out with friends.

“Even though I’m not big on pictures or dancing or any of that, I still knew it was one of those few special times in my life, and you should give it the respect it deserves,” Mr. Smink said.