This history of prom:

Prom was created in the United States in the latter half of the 19th century. The word prom is, in fact, short for promenade. It was initially a banquet where high school seniors could remember all the memories they had made together. But as time went on, it became much more elaborate as students started dressing up formally and dancing, as well as the crowning of prom king and queen. The Jazz Age and Hollywood culture of the 1920s influenced proms to start becoming increasingly impressive. By mid-20th century America, prom had become a massive part of the American high school experience with every high school having its prom.

Prom has continued to change throughout the years to reflect changing trends and culture. In the 1950s, modesty was in and proms showcased this with traditional ballroom dancing and elevated dresses worn by the girls. Over time, prom grew in its rebellious connotations, coming to a peak in the 1960s and 1970s. It mirrored the counterculture movements then ongoing at that particular time. The eighties revived the fun of prom with big hairdos, elaborate choices of clothes and amazing decorations.

Prom has been a humongous part of the culture as high school students at Carmel. There have been creative promposals where people surprise their dates and bring smiles to their faces, reservations made for snazzy restaurants, nails painted, hair done up and, of course, the perfect dress. Then on the night the various groups join together as not just students, but as friends, as they dance the night away. 

This year’s theme: A Midnight’s Masquerade: 

The masquerade ball originated in the Middle Times in Europe. It first debuted in Venice, Italy, during the time of new art. These events were fancy occasions where people dressed up as f yet hid behind the romantic facades that have now translated to the masks seen now-a-days. These parties were thrown by the rich but allowed people from all walks of life to mix without the separation of status or reputation. They were common during the party season, making the mood a little more mysterious as the mask hid the true identity of the party-goers. 

Masquerade balls grew big in Europe, linked with elegant and rich shows. In France, during the 1600s and 1700s, the citizens of high social status enjoyed these balls, held in big halls like Versailles. These events required tasteful dresses, colorful masks and engaging activities, such as music, dance and plays. The Masquerade parties were very popular in the 1700s, seen as a sign of the times with elaborate parties and showing off what you had.  

By the 1800s, these balls were not as popular, but came back into style in the early 1900s, particularly in the United States. Taking from old European ways and the fun of mystery, these balls became key events. Today, masquerade balls are still a hit, as they intermix the nostalgia for times past, with the events of the modern age. Whether for a themed party, charity, or a big night out, the charm of the masquerade still symbolizes the same romance and beauty as when they were originally founded.

For Carmel’s 2024 prom, there will be a masquerade-themed prom that is sure to give us a fun atmosphere as students arrive at the venue. The Blue and Gold is eager to report back after a midnight at the masquerade!