Getting down in flashy gowns—here’s the best of prom fashions for 2023!

The theme for this year’s Beaver Area prom is the Golden Gala. This news was revealed at the annual Mr. Beaver High event, announced by the junior class officers. Following the announcement, there was a confused murmur from the audience, followed by one loud “what?!”

Each year, the senior class votes for their favorite theme among a few exciting options nominated by the junior class officers. This year, options included Fire and Ice, Out of This World, Cloud Nine, and Wonderland.

However, there was a three-way tie for the top pick, and instead of a tiebreaker vote, another theme was selected at random. Thus, the Golden Gala was born.

Though dressing for the theme is not required, it can definitely be an added bonus. Although the theme was announced less than two months before the prom—after most girls already have chosen their dresses—gold can be used as an accent for so many different colors. With that said, I expect to see plenty of golden jewelry and handbags. Gold is flashy and eye-catching, it looks elegant, and can suit anyone’s skin tone perfectly.

On the topic of eye-catching statements, I predict that everything shiny will be common again this year. Beaded dresses that might weigh more than your purse, iridescent sequins, and glitter designs are a few examples of prom fashions that are sure to gleam under the lights at the Grand March May 5. Although velvet is more of a winter formal style, it still shines, and I definitely expect to see some of that at prom too.

Glitter hairspray is perfect way to find sparkles in your bathroom for years to come. If you’re not too fond of that idea, you could try a slightly more . . . practical approach. Something very trendy right now is wearing a slick-back hairstyle, complete with pearls or gemstones glued to the top of the head. It looks classy and can be used as the perfect pop or shimmer or color.

Another feature expected at prom is feathers. Dresses with feathers are currently taking over the stores—and looking glamorous while doing it.

Another dramatic statement that is going to be popular at prom is neon colors. There were plenty of neon dresses at the prom last year, and based on the current styles carried in stores, they will not be going away any time soon. Neons are fun for the warm weather, and bright flowers always steal the show for pictures.

If you aren’t the biggest fan of dressing up, a great way to dress your outfit down is to invest in a pair of fun socks. They can match or clash with your outfit, just as long as they’re still visible.

No matter what, make sure to pick something that you feel incredible in. Have fun with your outfit—and stay glamorous!