Prom then and now.

[bobcat]

In the 1960s, prom was a modest affair. Most students wore off-the-rack dresses or suits, did their own hair, and drove there in whatever vehicle they owned or borrowed. Today it's a modern extravagance that often includes professional styling, designer outfits, luxury transportation, and elaborate “promposals,” making it a multi-thousand-dollar event for some families. It has shifted from a simple school dance to a high-stakes social event, often influenced by social media and pop culture. Sadly, now many just can't afford to go, or may feel embarrassed if they can't meet the expectations. This must be difficult for parents.

 

[That Lady in PA]

I don't know about the 60s... but in the 70s, prom was huge.
That is why I couldn't go.... could not afford to.

In the 70s, homecoming was the modest affair - just a dance after the football game.
Now it is as big if not bigger than prom.

 

[Aunt Bea]

In the 70s our proms were pretty basic homely affairs where various class committees were formed to transform the gym or cafeteria into a ballroom, scrounge flowers from local gardens, prepare refreshments, etc…

There were no limousines or party buses, occasionally a parent with a classic car might play chauffeur but most kids carpooled with the kids that were fortunate enough to have access to a car.

Some boys rented a tux but many put together an outfit with the help of the other men in the family, most girls had a new dress.

There were no big pre-prom dinners, post-prom parties usually consisted of a keg in a corn field or at a local lake.

I was always part of the group that skipped prom and headed straight for the keg in the corn field with a couple bottles of Boones Farm strawberry wine.

 

[JustBonee]

I remember our proms in the 60’s as an evening affair … now it’s a weekend or longer extravagenza…..and the cost! $$$$$$$$

Probably will be seeing the beginning of planning one soon. …. but that will be after the major Senior Pictures event that starts in a couple weeks.

 

[Della]

That pink one is almost exactly like the one I wore. My dad gave me 20.00 for a dress and that's exactly what it cost with tax, so I didn't have anything left for bus fair home. I walked the 12 miles home from Charleston. I did my own hair just like that.