I have never been to a school dance. However, inevitably I hear a story, or even worse I see pictures of someone who decided to go to a school sponsored dance wearing an outfit that showed too much. 
    Whether we realize it or not, clothes say something about our character. When you wear clingy, low cut clothing, you can look desperate. Some girls dress like that to merit attention from guys. But when you think about it, do you really want a guy who only wants you for your looks? School dances are no exception. Girls, please don’t put it out there for everyone to see. Do you want your peers’ memory of you to be the girl who wore the dress that was too short to the dance? There are beautiful dresses that you can buy that are nice and preserve your honor as young women. School dances are not like the red carpet where "anything goes".
    There are four major ways to determine whether your dress is appropriate. First, when you are trying on your dress, bend over. If there is a breeze, then you probably shouldn’t wear that to Celebrity Ball. When you go to dances, several songs are without a doubt to be played such as the Cha-Cha Slide. We all know the lyrics, "six hops this time…" That brings me to my second test. When you’re trying on your ensemble, put on your favorite song and start dancing. If it all stays in, you are good to go. Third, when you are previewing your dress always try it on with the shoes you plan on wearing with it. A modest dress can change once you put on heels. Lastly, make sure all your body parts can breathe in your dress. Wear clothes that fit you. Have you ever seen someone who is wearing clothes that are too tight? I have. All I can think is, "How can you walk?" When you see a dress that you love, don’t get your hopes up until you see it in your size. If you are willing to search for it, your perfect dress is out there. If you keep those tips in mind, you should be able to find a dress that is chic and appropriate for the occasion.
    We live in a time when almost everyone has access to the Internet. Most teenagers have a Facebook or a Myspace page. If you are captured in an unladylike photo, that memory is forever accessible via the web. The moment never goes away. Not to mention, you become a target of Monday morning gossip. Don’t allow your reputation to be marred by a fashion don’t. 
    As for guys, I know that you want to look "clean" at the dance. However, Celebrity Ball does not mean that you wear the brightest suit you own. Bright colors are for your dates. Leave the fluorescent suits to entertainers- they get paid to dress like that. Looking like a neon highlighter is not attractive- anywhere.
    I am not trying to be anyone’s mama. I just think my peers should think about the message that their dress will send. Honor yourself by what you wear. Dignity is something that is difficult to restore if it is damaged. Ladies, when you are shopping for Celebrity Ball, keep this in mind: Memories may fade, but pictures last a lifetime.