How the prom dress evolved through the years -

For many, prom is the ultimate teenage experience of grand romantic gestures and end-of-year celebrations. But let's be real: in reality, it's all about the dress.

And just like all things fashion, prom styles come and go, following trends that defined their decade. From satin dresses to rockin' ruffles, maybe you wore one of these to prom! Click through the following gallery to discover how prom dresses have changed over the years.

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1940s -

The 1940's silhouette fell on the slim side due to wartime fabric rations. It was also preferred for shoulders to be covered, due to modesty.

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1940s -

Even with the war rations for fabric, high school prom-goers made the best with what little they had and still looked fabulous.

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1950s -

In the '50s, full-skirted dresses became highly fashionable. They were commonly tea-length, hitting mid-calf or longer.

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1950s -

While the era's traditional silhouette was rather simple, it was 'hip' to add unique touches, such as a chiffon sash or flower detailing.

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1950s -

A tulle skirt and a curve-hugging bodice were also important elements to the '50's prom dress. And even if many of the dresses were shoulderless, a shawl was there for modesty.

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1950s -

Gloves were the ultimate accessory for any glamorous look in the '50s, including prom. Whether they were silk, satin, or lace, gloves were key.

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1950s -

For a true movie star look, here's Elizabeth Taylor at the UCLA prom in 1950. She wore a tulle dress with floral appliqué on the bodice and skirt.

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1960s -

The early '60s saw subtle shifts in style. The waistline was slightly raised, and the skirts slimmed down. Prom-goers also opted for knee-length sheath dresses.

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1960s -

By the late '60s, most of the waistlines were fully empire-style. The dresses were also long again and young women sported styles in different colors.

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1970s -

As the 1970s entered, so too did wearing long floaty gowns with sheer long sleeves. Perfect to dance to those disco tunes!

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1970s -

Eyelet lace was huge in the '70s. Paired with off-the-shoulder sleeves and an empire waist, it was the ultimate trend. And don't forget the flower over the ear.

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1970s -

The satin dress became mega trendy thanks to Sissy Spacek in the horror flick 'Carrie' (1976). The strappy gown would have a comeback later on in the late '90s.

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1980s -

The 1980s took the previous decade's love for ruffles and multiplied it. Remember, there was no such thing as too many ruffles in the '80s!

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1980s -

The 1980s were all about matching, and the same went for the date's outfit. Ideally the prom dress would match his bow tie and cummerbund.

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1980s -

The tulle skirt got its comeback during the mid to late '80s, and this time it was even bigger. It doesn't get more 1980s than this!

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1980s -

Simplicity wasn't in the fashion vocabulary of the 1980s. A simple tulle dress would sometimes get polka dots embroidered for extra sophistication. And let's not forget the big bow!

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1980s -

One of the most common prom trends of the '80s was the drop waist dress. However, we have to say, it wasn't always the most flattering.

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1980s -

Andie's DIY dress in 'Pretty in Pink' (1986) was one of the most iconic '80s prom dresses and a true inspiration for young women of the time.

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1980s -

In the late '80s, prom-goers started wearing shorter styles, like the popular bubble dress. It kept some other popular '80's elements, like the bow.

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1990s -

The early '90s were very similar to the late '80s, except that the '90's dresses became slightly tighter, but still with a lot of volume.

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1990s -

First popularized in the mid '70s, the spaghetti strap made a comeback in the '90s. A true '90's trend, the thinner the strap, the better.

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1990s -

In the late 1990s, a sleek, minimalist look took over high schools. Curly updos also became a major prom trend.

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2000s -

Whether it was to keep you warm or not, shawls became a must-have accessory for prom-goers. And it was even better if it matched the dress.

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2000s -

During the early 2000s, prom dresses started to slightly shift away from minimalism. Young women were opting for beaded models with different necklines.

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2000s -

With Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera setting early aught trends, two-piece dresses that showed off the belly button became super popular.

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2000s -

Thanks to Hilary Duff in 'A Cinderella Story' (2004), girls everywhere wanted and needed a princess dress. If you didn't have a hard time getting into the limo, then you didn't do it right!

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2010s -

As the 2010s arrived, heavily beaded dresses stood out. It didn't matter the color, length, or silhouette,  it just needed elaborate beads.

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2010s -

From neutrals to vibrant colors, girls were opting for various styles in the early 2010s. When lined up, teen's individual styles were clearly standing out.

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2020s -

Individuality continued into the 2020s, but with some '90's-inspired elements, like the spaghetti strap and the minimalist models. Now, less is more. 

Sources: (Elle) (Cosmopolitan)

See also: Iconic and inspirational wedding dresses throughout history

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