Prom is no longer just the ultimate high school experience or the pinnacle of school dances. Thanks to social media, influencers, and a camera on every phone, prom has morphed into something much grander. Defined by stunning gowns, impeccable makeup, and carefully curated posts, today, it’s the ultimate fashion show for teens — the Met Gala of high school, if you will.
Making an impression begins with not just finding the right outfit, but finding the right look. The dress is one thing, but for the ultimate style statement, the hair, makeup, and accessories all need to coordinate. It comes down to finding an overall theme or aesthetic that marries your personal style and your prom-night vision.
While aesthetics like balletcore, Barbiecore, classicore, and romcom core have been popular lately, if you’re looking for trendsetter status, we’ve scoped out five rising aesthetics that are about to blow up. These 2023 vibes transcend your typical prom trends and encompass an entire mood.
For even more prom inspo, be sure to check out the Disney original movie, “Prom Pact,” premiering on Disney Channel on March 30 at 8 p.m. and available on Disney+ March 31. You can learn more about “Prom Pact” at DisneyPlusOriginals.Disney.com. Nothing will get you in the spirit more than following high school senior Mandy Yang’s journey as she befriends the school jock in hopes his connected father can help her get into Harvard. The playful prom outfits alone are enough to warrant a watch.
Sparkles, sequins, and shimmery fabrics tend to gain popularity during prom season, and thanks to the rise of this under-the-sea siren aesthetic, we can expect more of these light-reflecting looks to hit proms around the world. Defined by iridescent fabrics and all things ethereal, mermaidcore is arguably the trend to watch — and emulate — right now.
It’s not just about glitter and seashells either, part of this trend’s allure is the mermaid-esque silhouettes in the form of column dresses, fishtail hemlines, and bra-like tops. Cool tones are also a pillar of this trend with prominent pieces in shades of seaglass, ocean, and cobalt.
For makeup, keep lips simple with a natural, glossy shine. Body glitter is always welcome and feel free to get creative by placing pearls or excess shimmer around your eyes. This trend may be shine-heavy, but the key is not to overdo it in the glamour department. At heart, mermaidcore is all about appearing effortless and alluring.
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A little grunge, a little glam, and even a little preppy, 2023’s goth queen aesthetic is much more elevated than the goth trend of decades past. Sure, fishnets, chokers, and gothic lace are all encouraged, but so are tulle, statement sleeves, organza, and light embellishments — as long as it’s in black.
Ultimately, this trend is just as charming as it is dark and rebellious. Black is of course the cornerstone of this aesthetic followed by a mixture of textures like velvet, leather, and nylon. For a formal event like prom, consider a vampish, floor-skimming black gown or even a layered chiffon dress with sheer paneling for a more playful spin on the look.
Makeup should be dark and moody. Try a deep berry lipstick and kohl-lined eyes. Even a classic smoky eye complements this trend well. In a sea of primary-colored dresses, froufrou feathers, and sequins, channeling this vibe is a surefire way to stand out.
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Trends come and go, and then given some time, come back around again. Regencycore is a perfect (albeit extreme!) example of this considering it stems from the early 1800s. It’s an aesthetic based on signature pieces and silhouettes from the UK’s Regency era, which is marked by years of elegance, art, and an emphasis on culture.
Today, regencycore translates into trends like empire-waists, baby-doll dresses, pearl embellishments, floral prints, opera gloves, and corsets. The look champions a hyper-feminine style that’s both regal and romantic. If this is your chosen prom vibe, be ready to make a statement. Aim for any of the above hallmarks as well as gilded-age trends like full skirts, puff sleeves, candy hues, hair ribbons, and peplum.
A regencycore beauty look revolves around glowing, dewy skin. Makeup should be relatively minimal and fresh — think shades of pink and peach on lips, lids, and cheeks.
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Just as current trends pull from the past, they also look to the future. Futurism is an other-wordly aesthetic that finds inspiration in an age of flying cars and space tourism. It’s bold, it’s sleek, and, as the name suggests, it’s futuristic.
This trend heavily revolves around glitzy metallics (particularly all things silver), universe motifs, and bright patent leather pieces. Rooted in optimism for what lies ahead, when done right, futurism will have you feeling like an extraterrestrial rockstar. For prom, incorporate mesh panels, sequined embroideries, intricate silhouettes, cutouts, and of course, shimmery, reflective fabrics.
The beauty associated with futurism is just as fun and experimental as the fashion. Think: metallic eyelids, silvery lips, gemstone cateyes, and sharp contrasting lines.
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To no one’s surprise, Y2K fashion is still going strong. Between the trend’s bright colors, kitschy textures like plastic, and bedazzled pieces, the trend appeals to our playful, nostalgic side. While the name refers to the year 2000, the aesthetic also encompasses notes from the late ’90s and early ’00s.
Embodying this trend is about channeling pop culture at the turn of the millennium. Body glitter, body jewelry, cutouts, halter tops, and luminous materials are all fair game. Y2K-inspired looks are often larger than life, and for prom, they’re not limited to just dresses. Try standing out in a two-piece set — maybe a low-rise sequin pencil skirt with a matching cropped halter top. Finish the look with strappy heels and, if you’re really committing, a few butterfly clips.
Y2K makeup tends to be over-the-top with frosted eyeshadow, ombre lips, and iridescent highlighter. The shimmer and glitter isn’t just reserved for the face either. Dust your collarbone and arms, too, for an authentic take on the aesthetic.
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