The countdown is on: With just a couple of months until homecoming, it’s officially time to start planning your standout look. And this year is a great opportunity to debut a fabulous style that will complement the biggest event of the season. From gorgeous hair and makeup ideas to stunning dresses, our guide is a one-stop shop for all things homecoming; one that is sure to get you in the school spirit and excited for your big night.
Hairstyles
A stunning hairstyle is a perfect way to accentuate your high school homecoming look. For long hair this season, you can wear your hair down in sleek, soft waves to create an elegant, unfussy look. We recommend wide-barrel tongs or a three-barrel waver for light, airy waves.
Other stunning ways to go include a stylish updo with loose tendrils for curly hair or a sleek high ponytail for straighter hair. If you have medium-length hair, try a half-up style. Pulling the top section of your hair back with a clip or braid is sure to make for a dreamy, ethereal impression. A half-up hairstyle also pairs well with a cute accessory like a scarf, ribbon, or bow.
Short hair is chic and sophisticated but often gets the bad rap of being difficult to style. Of course, short hair actually has the potential for countless great looks.
One gorgeous option: Twist pieces of your hair and pin them back to create a textured appearance. This look is completed by a statement hair accessory like a barrette or oversized clip. Mini braids are another stunning, trendy choice for those with short hair. It’s a fun, playful look that is sure to set you apart from everyone else on the dance floor.
Makeup
For a bold and artsy style, combine a swipe of white liner with matte, crimson lips to add a pop of color. Another standout option is metallic eye makeup in a color like bright blue or silver, as well as a light highlight and muted lip color.
Try a pretty monochromatic look for a softer choice, with blush pink on the lids, cheeks, and lips. Finally, for a natural glow, combine a subtle contour with a major highlight, creating a sparkling yet simple statement that’s sure to shine on your homecoming night.
Accessories
Adding accessories is one of the most fun parts of putting together your homecoming outfit, but it’s important to pick options that complete your dress and don’t compete with it. If your dress is more elaborate or detailed, then choose minimal accessories that help complement it. With homecoming dresses on the simpler side, more ornate accessories finish off the look in the most glam way.
You’ll want to pick shoes that go with your overall look but are comfortable (read: dance-able), too, so consider your heel height and width (stacked, thicker heels offer more support). Neutral heels like classic ankle strap styles are versatile and sophisticated, meaning you can wear them for homecoming as well as any other special occasion coming up.
If your dress is simpler, consider statement-making shoes with special details like rhinestones, feathers, satin lace-up straps, or sculptural heels. A cute clutch can also be a great addition to your ensemble–and one with embellishments or texture always feels party-ready!
Statement Dresses
By choosing a dress with the right fabrics, colors, and details, you can make a statement this homecoming. Whether you are stepping totally outside of your comfort zone, rocking a homecoming dress that nails your signature style, or a combination of the two, it all starts with the fabric.
From sequins and lurex to jacquard, satin, and velvet, luxe fabric options abound this season. For an airier feeling, opt for floaty organza or romantic sequins. Homecoming dresses featuring multi-colored sequin options like animal prints or iridescent are perfect for a bold, standout look.
Another stunning idea for your dress’s detailing is to include florals through unique fabrications, such as jacquards, printed organza, burnout velvet, or mesh with sequined or beaded patterns. Cutouts are a major trend this year, and ultra-feminine details like ruching, bows and ties, bustier bodices, embroidery, feathers, or fringe are all amazing touches for a dress that’s both striking and elegant.
When it comes to color, this season it’s all about homecoming dresses in saturated hues. In hues like fuchsia and magenta, emerald green, shades of red or blue, silver, and gold, you’re sure to make a memorable entrance.
As you plan out your homecoming outfit, considering these tips while thinking through your options will help you land on the perfect look. In the right homecoming dress, hair and makeup, and the perfect accessories, your confidence and style, you’re sure to stand out at your homecoming dance.
Have you chosen your HoCo look yet? Be sure to show us on Instagram @lulus using #lovelulus–and check out the complete Lulus homecoming dresses selection in our Homecoming shop!
This post was originally published in August 2021 and has been updated with new content.
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