Prom is a highly anticipated and exciting social event for high school juniors and seniors.
From dress shopping and booking hair and manicure appointments to getting fitted for a tuxedo and buying the perfect corsage, preparing for prom is a big (and often expensive) deal for many young people and their parents.
Although prom in its precise definition is short for promenade dance—a formal dance party for high school students held toward the end of the school year—there are several other activities that typically take place on prom night, including group photo sessions, dinners and afterparties.
Present-day prom differs significantly from early versions of the event, which dates all the way back to the late 19th century. The history of prom is rich in many obscure but interesting and culturally significant details that have shaped it into the event it is today.
The Late 19th Century: Debutante Balls
Contemporary prom has its roots in debutante balls. These glamorous events served as coming-of-age ceremonies for young women from wealthy families. Participating in a debutante ball meant a teenage girl was ready to be introduced to society and meet her future husband. As dating in the late 19th century was unheard of, attending a debutante ball gave young women the opportunity to merge themselves into polite society and meet eligible bachelors.
Although marriage is no longer at the center of this centuries-old tradition, debutante balls continue to take place all over the United States. Their purpose nowadays is for young women to network, make lasting friendships (with both men and women), celebrate adulthood and give back to the community.
The 1920s: The Introduction of Proms in High Schools
Until the early 20th century, proms were sophisticated tea parties reserved for male college students and their affluent families. In the 1920s, proms began transitioning to high schools where they became a much more causal and inclusive event for teenage boys and girls on the brink of graduation. By the 1930s, it was customary for high school seniors to attend prom under strict supervision of teachers and parents. While college proms celebrated wealth and social status, the goal of high school proms was to teach young men and women their assigned gender roles.
The 1950s: Proms Become an Integral Part of the High School Experience
In the 1950s, prom became an integral part of every student’s high school experience. The post-war economic boom made it possible for proms to move from high school gyms to more sophisticated locations like hotels and country clubs.
During this time, no high school prom was complete without the culminating event--choosing the king and queen of the prom. These two longed-for titles were reserved for the most popular students at the school.
1970s and Onward: Inching Toward Racial Inclusion
It wasn’t until the 1970s when African American students were allowed to attend prom alongside white students. However, ongoing racial tensions perpetuated the segregation, resulting in parents of white students organizing exclusive parties for their children. In response, African American parents did the same for their kids.
As years passed and societal views evolved, more and more high schools began holding integrated proms welcoming students of all colors and cultural backgrounds.
Nowadays, young people from all walks of life get to attend prom. The event allows high school students to have fun, celebrate milestones and spend quality time with friends and family before graduation.
Stunning Prom Venue in Fairfax, Virginia
If you’re concerned about some of the racial or gender insensitivities of proms from decades past, or the conformist roles they played in establishing gender norms, you’re not alone. Fortunately, there is nothing inherently wrong with the idea of young adults and soon-to-be-adults celebrating the end of a significant chapter of their lives. Modern proms can be fun, inclusive events that are safe and welcoming to every student.
CrystalView in Fairfax is the perfect venue for hosting high school prom and other memorable events.
Our luxurious interior paired with delicious catering and state-of-the-art entertainment is what sets us apart from other venues.
To learn more about CrystalView or to schedule a tour, call (703) 218-4444 or send us a message.
FAQs
Until the early 20 th century, proms were sophisticated tea parties reserved for male college students and their affluent families. In the 1920s, proms began transitioning to high schools where they became a much more causal and inclusive event for teenage boys and girls on the brink of graduation.
What is the history of high school prom? ›
When did high schools adopt proms? According to History.com, segregated white high schools introduced proms in the 1920s to show teenagers how to behave cultural norms and stereotypes of their gender — for example, women being subservient to men — and race.
What does prom stand for in high school? ›
A promenade dance or promenade, commonly called a prom in American English, is a dance party for high school students. It may be offered in semi-formal black tie or informal suit for boys, and evening gowns for girls. This event is typically held at or near the end of the school year.
Why do girls take prom so seriously? ›
You must be wondering what is the point of prom night celebration? It may sound cheesy, but prom marks the day of getting into adulthood, indicating that the teen has passed high school and is now graduating to another stage. Prom is a unique way to celebrate this transition.
Why is prom called prom? ›
Short for "promenade,” proms are modeled after the debutante balls of high society and have evolved from semi-formal end-of-the-year dances held in school gyms to become a billion-dollar industry encompassing limousines, flowers, photography, special attire and over-the-top invitations.
What does prom mean to a girl? ›
Prom is a formal dance and is usually the last dance of a senior's high school career. It's one last chance to get together as a class, have fun, and celebrate their accomplishments. In many schools, the junior prom and senior prom are held together, especially if the class isn't super large.
Can you go to prom without a date? ›
Prom is basically a bunch of teenagers playing dress-up for the night — and maybe doing a little dancing on the side. Make sure your child understands it's common nowadays for groups of friends to go to dances together. Dates are no longer required. This is true even for formal occasions like prom.
Why is prom so important? ›
For some, it's a chance to dress up and have a fun night with friends. For others, it's an opportunity to create lasting memories before parting ways with classmates and entering adulthood. No matter the significance, prom is a special event that marks an important milestone in many people's lives.
How old is prom? ›
Present-day prom differs significantly from early versions of the event, which dates all the way back to the late 19 th century. The history of prom is rich in many obscure but interesting and culturally significant details that have shaped it into the event it is today.
Is prom an American thing? ›
Or is it a strictly American rite of passage? Interestingly enough, most other countries do in fact have some form of prom or end of primary school celebration. Many countries hold their prom-equivalent in the winter which is considered “ball season”.
o Prom attire should reflect more a formal family occasion (like a wedding) rather than a night on the town or at a dance club. o Dresses that are too revealing, are skin tight or form-fitting, expose midriffs or cleavage, or are too short in length are not appropriate.
Can girls ask guys to prom? ›
Anyway, there's nothing wrong with a girl doing the asking in this day and age. One of the best ways of ensuring you have a prom date is to get creative. If you're nervous about asking a guy out to prom, don't worry about it. By the time you're finished with this article, you should be a little more confident.
What is it called when a girl asks a guy to prom? ›
A Sadie Hawkins dance or turnabout is a usually informal dance sponsored by a high school, middle school or college, to which the ladies invite the gentlemen to be their dates.
Who invented the idea of prom? ›
Prom remains alive in American culture today and has expanded among other countries with another name, but prom is much older than you think, it all started in 1928 thanks to Otto Rohwedders invention, prom is short for promenade “the formal, introductory parading of guests at a party.” began in the middle 1800´s at ...
Is prom for lovers? ›
Even though many individuals might think that you absolutely must have a date before you go to prom, the truth is that you don't necessarily need a date to attend this event. While many people enjoy spending the evening with a date, others love to attend alone or with a group of friends.
What is the purpose of a high school prom? ›
The whole purpose of prom, or any school-sponsored formal, is to give young people the chance to develop their social skills.
What is the history of prom party? ›
Prom remains alive in American culture today and has expanded among other countries with another name, but prom is much older than you think, it all started in 1928 thanks to Otto Rohwedders invention, prom is short for promenade “the formal, introductory parading of guests at a party.” began in the middle 1800´s at ...
Why is there a prom king and queen? ›
Although some people may say it's overrated and unnecessary, it's a huge part in most High School proms. What's the purpose of Prom King and Queen? It's people who represent our class at best, not at worst. It's not a huge competition; it's something that can be potentially very amusing and exciting.
When did prom royalty start? ›
The Transition to High Schools: The 1920s and 1930s
Students began investing in upscale attire, and the event became a significant social occasion. During this period, the tradition of crowning a prom king and queen took root, adding a touch of regality to the event.
