How to Choose and Accessorize Your Perfect Homecoming Dress on a Budget
Right behind prom and graduation, homecoming is one of the most hyped nights of the school year. The dancing, the group pics, the late-night fries after? Unreal. But first things first: you need a dress.
Finding homecoming dresses that fit the theme and your vibe can feel like a whole lotta pressure. You want something that feels a little grown-up but isn’t going to get you side-eyes from the chaperones. Bonus points if it doesn’t wreck your budget. Whether you’re into minis or maxis, sparkles or simplicity, warm nights or chilly ones—we’ve got your back. Keep reading for our go-to tips on how to find the perfect hoco dress that ticks all the boxes.
What’s the Vibe? Let the Homecoming Theme Guide You
Let’s talk themes. Whether it’s Hollywood Nights, Enchanted Forest, Casino Royale, or disco fever, dresses for homecoming should fit the vibe without going too literal, because let’s be real, that can get a bit cringey.
For that enchanted theme, think mesh maxi dresses with a little shimmer or maybe some fluttery tulle. Old Hollywood? Channel your inner Marilyn Monroe with a strapless gown in satin and some big bling. And as for disco, you really can’t go wrong with sequin or glitter dresses. Find your own vibe and interpretation of the theme, and let that guide you.
Dream Budget
If you’ve already been looking for homecoming dresses, you’ve probably noticed they can get pricey. But here’s the secret: it’s all about the cut and fabric. Satin can give you that luxe look without the crazy cost, and statement styles like ruffle dresses and bubble hems do the heavy lifting when you want to make a statement.
Keep in mind, you’re going to be dancing, laughing, and moving all night, so you’re going to want to be comfortable all night long. Instead of a tight squeeze, think cute babydoll mini dresses or flowy maxis that will keep you comfy and looking totally snatched at the same time.
Bold Colors? You Can Totally Pull Them Off
Bright colors can feel a little scary, especially if you tend to stick to neutrals, but keeping your accessories simple can make them easy to pull off. Try pink dresses with silver or pearls for a soft-girl vibe. Red looks great with nude heels and a glossy lip. If you pick a white dress, you can really have fun, making your nails or makeup the feature instead of the dress. If you’re drawn to the color, and it makes you feel happy, that’s a sign you’ve nailed it.
Accessories That Don’t Scream “Last-Minute”
Did your homecoming dress shopping months ago but forgot about accessories and those little final touches? We gotchu, sis. There are so many accessories you may already have that will take your look to the next level!
Press-on nails are a good staple for ensuring everything looks put together, while hair gems can give even a plain, straightened hair look a little something special. If you feel a little ‘underdone’, throw on some stackable rings, or see if someone you know has a pair of glitzy heels you can borrow. Although if you’re wearing a glitter or more out-there dress, keep the rest toned down to let that shine. Less is more!
Save Where You Can, Splurge Where It Counts
Homecoming is a good excuse to get your hands on a stunning dress you can pull out whenever you have a big occasion. Spending a little money on a homecoming dress, such as a gorgeous mesh dress or stunning textured dress, means you can wear it time and time again. Just swap out your shoes, bag, jewelry, and makeup to switch it up. The most memorable part of the night isn’t what you wore, but how you felt in it.
Tag Us in Your Homecoming Moments
We wanna see the fit, the look, and the energy. Tag @selfieleslie in your homecoming posts, we’re always cheering you on 💙✨
