Ban for Fashion

Going to the prom in the 1960’s was a formal affair where women would put on their best dress to do ‘The Twist’ all night. Those attending the prom were expected to dress in formal attire and those who did not follow the dress code were not permitted to enter. Like most events, a firm dress code was established and it was enforced. Young men snd women had to adhere to the strict dress codes of school, so prom night was a great night to wear more flamboyant attire that highlighted their personality. Most women of the 60’s opted for pastel colors that may be solid in color but dresses with floral patterns were also a popular choice. It was common for the waist of these dresses to be adorned with large flowers that acted as an accessory piece. These dresses were mostly A-lined dresses, which is a skirt that flares out from the waist. The skirt was filled out by women wearing hoops or crenalins. Crenalins are layers of tulle and fabric that are worn under clothing to fill the skirt of a dress. Most women of these times never wore straight skirts for formal events because it was common wear for everyday events. The bodice of these formal gowns were often sleeveless or had strapless necklines. More modest women wore sheer fabric sleeves for added coverage. The 1960’s were a time of change for our country and women were becoming independent in their own right. The prom dress was a way for more daring and modern women to push the limit and express themselves. Hemlines rose higher than ever before and some modern women wore strapless dresses. The ballgown style dress had a hemline that stayed right below the knee. This was a popular choice because floor length gowns were elegant but made dancing difficult. Polyester, and sometimes nylon, was a popular fabric choice for many dresses and material goods of the 60’s and so by default it was often used to make prom dresses as well. Women usually wore their hair teased for everyday style and this was no different for prom if not more pronounced. ‘The Beehive’ was the popular hairstyle for this time. Marilyn Monroe’s hairstyle was copied by many during the 1960’s. Women accessorized their prom dressed with three inch, spiked heels that were pointed at the toe. Basic jewelry was used and because women did not normally pierce their ears, they adorned themselves with clip-on earrings for the special night.