How To Be Confident and Body Positive At Prom

Getting fully done up for prom is not an easy feat. Getting fully done up for prom while remaining body positive? Even harder. No matter what, we want you to look and feel your best on prom night. So, we asked for expert advice from Charlanne Zepf, a licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist based in White Plains, New York, who answered our questions around body image and confidence and prom.

What are some common things that give students anxiety around body image and confidence around prom? What are common concerns students may have?

Social media, Hollywood, and even our own communities have such a narrow definition of what is “beautiful.” “Beauty” is often portrayed as an underweight body type with no hips or curves. Other communities find curves more beautiful, and it’s not just young women who struggle with body confidence. Young men also struggle with having a healthy body image. But often unfortunately, Hollywood -- we’re using that in a broad sense -- dictates what’s beautiful by a straight cisgender male standard. And with DoSomething.org trying to make 2019 the most inclusive prom ever, who has time for that?!

Still, most young people (old people too! this isn’t easy for anyone) are trying to emulate that fabricated body image. And it’s not just societal pressures to fit into a certain look or body type. That pressure can come from friends and family too. So at prom, when all eyes are on you, and you’re taking pictures and making lasting memories, most young people are anxious about not having a body that looks “good enough” and that how they look can impact their experience. But how much fun you have at prom is not determined by what you look like, but how you feel!

What are some things students can do to leading up to prom to avoid anxiety and feel more confident on prom night?

Happiness and self-worth shouldn’t come solely from the way they look. You should definitely think hard about who you’re going with and how they can influence the experience. You want to go with people who are fun, makes you feel safe, and not objectify you by just focusing on your looks. But you have to wear something! So wear clothes you feel comfortable and confident in!

How can friends support each other when it comes to body image/confidence around prom?

Friends should be there to lift each other up. Make a point to go shopping for formal outfits with your friends to make it an even more fun experience. There are also so many inexpensive pre-prom activities you can do with your friends too. You can all get ready together, put on a great playlist, and get ready to have a great time!

As I said, we all struggle with our confidence at times. And especially when we are going to big event, we all want to look our best. Truly, it’s what you feel on the inside that everyone sees. So be confident, and get ready to have the best time at prom!

Stressed about other prom stuff? Check out our guides around drinking, finances, sex, and finding a date. Or use our Prom Anxiety Textline by texting PROM to 38383.