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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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