Apart from looking forward to a new school year, high schoolers also look forward to their homecoming dance. It's an exciting way to kick off a new year. The key to this magical event is of course, finding the perfect homecoming dress.

Choosing a homecoming dress may seem like a daunting task but if there's a homecoming theme, knowing your school's dress code and also determining your preferred color for your dress, you will be able to find some stunning options. Dressing for homecoming themes can be an absolute blast and you can leave a lasting impression.

Below are some of the most popular homecoming themes and tips on the dresses you can choose to wear so that you will stand out and have the best night ever.

Starry Starry Night

If your Hoco dance has a theme such as “Under the Stars”, it’s likely to be decorated with sparkling lights and dark colors. This theme will surely make a sequin or metallic dress shine. Dresses with sequins, beading or metallic fabric will make you the center of attention of this celestial-themed dance.

Shop this Navy Blue Sequin Homecoming dress

Under the Sea

Under the sea is a fun and exciting theme for girls who love mermaids and the oceans while growing up. What works for this theme are light pastels or dark colors. You can decide whether you want a sunshine beach or the ocean depths. Sea-inspired colors like greens, mint, blues, pearl embellishment dresses are great for the ocean homecoming look. Opt for mermaid dresses to show of your curves.

Shop this Light Blue Sequin Mini Homecoming dress

Carnival Theme

A carnival theme is all about bright and boisterous atmosphere. This is a fun theme and let your Hoco dress follow the same formula. Think dresses in bold colors and shiny accents like sequins, beadings and crystals. The more embellishments, the merrier they are. No matter if it's a fitted, A-line, ballgown or mermaid, any silhouette suits this whimsical theme is perfect.

Shop this cheap royal blue hoco dress

Barbie

Barbiecore is everywhere now so it's not a surprise that your Hoco is going for this. Barbie fashion is characterized by bright colors, especially in shades of pink. Fabrics in eye-catching patterns and textures such as tulle, sequins and glitter are perfect for this theme.

Shop This Pink Homecoming Dress

 

Old Hollywood

Old Hollywood glamor is a great theme if your school has a more formal dress code. It's time to embrace wearing vintage inspired homecoming dresses. Luxe maxi dresses in velvet or satin are a great choice. For a standout retro gown, you will make a huge impact in a dress in red, black, white, gold or silver.

Shop This Short Homecoming Dresses Gold Dress

Through the Decades

The “Through the Decades” theme calls for dresses with ’60s, ’70s, ’80s, or ’90s influences. Groovy, psychedelic prints and disco-worthy metallic in satin or tulle are always a good idea for the throwback-inspired look.

Shop This Metallic Hoco Dresses With Pockets

Tropical Luau

Looking to make a splash at a luau themed homecoming? Then you need dresses in floral prints, light, flowy fabrics, and bright colors. You may also want to go for a maxi dress in a more casual fabric to create an ocean-inspired look.

Shop This White Two Piece Print Floral Homecoming Dress

The Roaring ’20s

Here is another glam retro homecoming party theme and it's the roaring '20s. You can choose colors such as black, white, and silver for your hoco dress. Another good choice is embellished ‘20s-themed homecoming dress to channel the Great Gatsby-era style. Look for a form fitting dress in neutral color, and embellishments. It pays to be a little bit extra for this theme.

Shop This White Short 2025 Lace Homecoming Dress