The Garter for Prom - Tradition

Prom Garter for 2013 - Check Your Pulse

Your Prom will be part of your memories forever. This special time is all about YOU.

This is usually your first formal (black tie) dance and can be considered your ‘coming out’ or ‘promenade’. It’s a stepping stone to your new adult life of going off to college or getting a job, an apartment, and responsibilities.

Your Date: He will dress in black or white formal wear with the accent color of the vest, bow tie, or cummerbund to match YOUR gown. The corsage (usually wrist) will also incorporate your colors. The boutonniere you give to him to be worn on his lapel and will coordinate the color scheme.

Needs vs. Wants: Let’s get to all of the fun stuff… which will include getting your nails done - that alone can be quite fancy; and, of course, the most beautiful and complimentary hair style of your choice. Finish the look with just the right accessories of shoes and purse and favorite perfume.

Your Prom Garter: Now, you will select a gown or formal ‘after five’ dress in the color that favors you most, but your garter(s) should match your gown. There are many choices. You can have your prom garter ‘personalized’ with your names & event or a particular charm attached; you can have 2 garters of equal appearance – one for you and one for him. Or, one prom garter fancier for you and not as embellished for him.

NOTE: Unlike a bride’s garter, the prom garter is meant to be removed by the girl herself (you). The first time your prom date should come in contact with the prom garter is when you give it to him to wear on his arm. As you see, the color of your gown, his matching accent color, and the prom garter color displayed on his arm completes the look of you as a ‘couple’.

You may present the Prom Garter and boutonniere to him at your home when he gives you the corsage. Some high schools have a ceremony before the dance begins where the girl (you) removes her prom garter and gives it to her date to wear as an armband.

Keepsake and Memories: The prom garter is a keepsake and will have lasting memories forever. It will be part of the photographs, corsage, and other treasures in your scrapbook or hide-a-way.  Keep the prom garter tradition.