Imagine: You just returned to Deerfield after Thanksgiving break. The trees have lost color and the air is brisk. The Pocumtuck valley is finally making its transition from the fall to the winter seasons and you can’t help but smile as you unpack your bags. In fact, everybody is happy, partly because we know we have just two weeks until we leave for vacation once more, and partly because everyone’s favorite semi formal dance will happen in just a few days.

Some pre-ordered outfits of all colors and styles months in advance, attempting to find the perfect fit. Others probably pulled out the same blazer or dress they wore from the class day before. Regardless of how you prepared for this yearly occasion, dressing for semi is often stressful. From finding a date, to learning foot patterns, worrying about what to wear should be the least of your concerns. That being said, for many students, the excitement of the dance consists mainly of the outfit they broadcast as they enter the doors of the Dining Hall that night.

Throughout the decades, fashion at Deerfield has differed greatly. Semi exemplifies this notion particularly, as the style of the night does not resemble that of a traditional swing dance. Those who identify as male usually keep it simple. Their attire, for the most part, is representative of the academic day dress code: khaki pants, a button down, and a blazer. However, I have seen a few boys venture out of their comfort zones in festive holiday suits, and these are a 10/10 in my lookbook. Most importantly, boys make the decision between wearing a necktie or a bow tie. While either works, ensuring that this item pairs well with the color of their date’s dress is essential. The way I see it, if you’re spending a whole night intertwined with a partner, your outfits should compliment one another, not only your dance moves.

For female identifying students, dresses are often a popular option. Mini dresses are most typical, although, in the past girls have traditionally kept it long at such occasions. There have been a few outliers who wear long dresses, and these girls never fail to impress. There are a wide variety of styles, ranging from slip, to bodycon, to babydoll dresses. Since it is a holiday dance, many wear festive colors, including, but not limited to, red, green, gold, blue, and white. This year, many girls especially illustrated that you can never go wrong with a black dress. Patterns are mostly to be avoided, although simple designs can look very elegant. This year we especially saw a peak in embellished dresses; a recent trend that has sparked the fashion industry. Lastly, certain materials can add vivacity and character to your dress. For example, silk is timeless and tells a story of class, while velvet is edgy and chic.

Overall, accessories are crucial to pull the outfit together and ensure you leave a lasting impression on the Dining Hall floors. Finding the balance between a cute and comfortable shoe can be challenging, although some seek comfort in taking them off when it’s time to break it down. Most girls wear low to high heels and some keep it simple with black ballet flats. Most importantly, jewelry can transform the look from boring to beautiful with the simple touch of a chain. Whether you exhibit a statement necklace, bangle bracelets, or pearl earrings, all types of jewelry can be paired together to enhance your features and enrich the outfit as a whole.

We have identified the typical choices for semi fashion, with the exception of a few. However, I think the most memorable outfits are those of which are inconspicuous. I admire certain individuals’ confidence to stray from the norm and embrace their own individual styles. I always find that the articles of clothing that are talked about are always fun and different. Everyone has a contrasting style and what works for some may not work for others. Therefore, the key to being perfectly stylish on this night is to be confident in yourself and to embrace your personal taste in fashion. Only then, can you flaunt your completed outfit and command the dance floor will the outfit truly be complete.