For Zoe Tsatsimas, a student at Rosebank College in Sydney’s inner west, her school formal was a long-awaited milestone. “We think of it as a really big thing and a big event in our lives that we want to get ready for and enjoy,” she said.
Tsatsimas chose a striking red corseted gown from British retailer House of CB, spending around $400. She carefully coordinated with friends rather than opting for a date, estimating her overall expenses for the evening at approximately $700. For her, the formal was less about fashion and more about creating lasting memories: “Having one last night with everybody. I’m not going to see them at school again.”
The excitement surrounding school formals remains significant for many Australian teenagers, influenced in part by social media. While some, like Tsatsimas, opt to buy their outfits, others are turning to dress rental platforms for budget-friendly and sustainable options. Fashion rental businesses report a rise in demand for unique and vintage styles, with trends this year including backless and drop-waist designs.
Meanwhile, initiatives like The Formal Project, founded by Sam Oakes, are ensuring that formals are accessible to all students. Offering free dresses and suits, the project has supported over 4000 teenagers this year, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to enjoy this special rite of passage.
Source: Sydney Morning Herald.
