Keeping the Om in Prom: Do’s & Don’ts

By Erin McCarty

High school graduation is meant to be a memorable milestone in every girl’s (and guy’s life).

It’s a rite of passage to the adult world, but it’s a night to make memories, have fun, and enjoy yourself.

The following are a few do’s and don’ts, compiled from my own thoughts and those of a few wise friends. Although we may have graduated some time ago, we learned a few timeless lessons that hold true.

Don’t let a date (or lack of one) make or break your evening.
Do go with a group of friends.

My date threw up on me at grad. If I could do it again, I think I would have gone with a group of friends and enjoyed myself more. Take silly pictures. You are young and full of life – take advantage of this time to spend with those closest to you. These are the things you will remember for far longer than what arm candy you walked in with.

Don’t fake and bake.
Do consider a sunless tanner.

If you really want to get your “glow on,” as my friend Meghan says, opt for a safe, UV free option. It’s not worth damaging your skin. Overdoing it and showing up matching your carrot-coloured dress is not sexy. ‘Nuf said.

Try: Clarins Sheer Bronze Self Tanning Hydrating Gel

Don’t break the bank on expensive shoes, make up, or uncomfortable and impossible dresses.
Do consider comfort and personal style.

Grad is supposed to be fun! Making it memorable shouldn’t cost you the moon. Get your friends together and get ready, take pictures, do each other’s make up and hair. Laugh, and enjoy. The blisters I sported after my grad haunted me for weeks. If you’re going to wear heels, bring flats for the dance party after. You’ll thank me. Buy a strapless bra that fits, and just because everyone else wants to wear that criminally short mini-dress doesn’t mean you have to. Go with comfort. I don’t mean show up in sweat pants and a tank top. Be smart and true to yourself and your style. Just do what you want! No one says you have to show up in a limo, wear six-inch stilettos, and spend the whole night plastered.

Don’t leave the party early for the “after party”.
Do stay and get the whole experience.

The whole point is to create awesome memories at prom. My after grad took place in a field somewhere, in the rain, with a bunch of drunk people. I guess it was fun, and it is part of the experience, but it detracted from the time I could have been spending with other people. Not to mention, so many people there completely erased the night from memory. I don’t really see the fun in that. Do what is right for you.

For many, grad comes after exams and really marks the very end of high school. People head off to summer jobs, prepare for university, or travel. Ring out your high school years with a bang, your way.