Homecoming is usually the first big social event on high schools' fall calendar. And while most students and administrators will tell you it's all about boosting school pride during the accompanying football game, homecoming is just as much about the school-hosted dance. It's here that students of all grade levels get to party, mingle with each other -- and, of course, show off creative flair when it comes to their wardrobes.
Homecoming's obviously not as big a deal as junior or senior proms -- events where students and families sometimes splurge on clothing ensembles that approach the formality and expense of weddings -- but as with any peer-driven occasion, what one wears is hugely important.
At some schools, it's all about the done-up 'dos and fancy nails. At others, it's about being casually chic. At still others, dancing comfort dictates the garb.
