Disclaimer: There is no particular reason I am qualified to be giving anyone fashion advice except that I own mom jeans, so if you show up to homecoming looking stupid, I’m sorry and it’s not my fault because I warned you.

Homecoming is approaching quickly, and if you’re anything like me, you are realizing you have no plans or clothes and should probably figure that out since homecoming is on September 28th, which is two weeks away. If you are confused about what to wear to this lovely event, I am here to help. It is a formal event, so it’s time to get fancy!

First off, let’s talk about shoes. For some unknown reason, some guys attending homecoming think it’s a good idea to wear tennis shoes and let me assure you, it is not. If you were considering wearing your favorite gym shoes to the dance, wear dress shoes instead. Girls, on the other hand, actually have a few more options. Anything from white high top converse to high heels is acceptable, but be warned, if you wear high heels you may end up limping out of homecoming with some gnarly blisters, not that I would know.

Finding a good suit may be tough, but it’s definitely worth it! Guys should wear slacks, a tie, a belt, and a collared shirt or a suit with a tie and maybe even suspenders if you’re feeling particularly fancy! Also, if you have a date, you can ask what color their attire is and get your tie color to match.

As many girls know, dress shopping is exhausting, stressful, and an excruciatingly long process, so make sure to give yourself ample time to find a dress to avoid scrambling the weekend before. Fuel up on sleep, coffee, snacks and force your mom and friends into the car for a stressful, hangry day of dress shopping! Also, if you allow enough time for shipping, returning, and re-shipping you could even order your dress, shoes, and jewelry online to avoid a hangry day at the mall. But, if you’re into shopping in person, definitely check out the Dillard’s outlet at the Citadel Mall for some super discounted dress clothes (for boys and girls).

Now for some outfit ideas to help you stand out (hopefully in a good way):

• Guys- Try a uniquely patterned tie or a bow tie, rent a suit in a cool color like navy blue or burgundy (if you can pull it off), go with a patterned pair of socks, or try actually doing your hair.

• Girls- Try going with a uniquely patterned dress and neutral colored shoes, wear some brightly colored heels with a neutral colored dress, or even try a fancy jumpsuit (if you can pull it off).

• If you don’t feel like you fit into any one gender category, try a unique blazer and slacks, an edgy skirt and collared top, or whatever will make you feel comfortable!

The most important thing to remember is to wear something that you feel good in! Good luck with your outfit planning and I hope to see you all at homecoming!