Gowns, glamour and social media: the rise of extravagance in matric dance fashion

Matric dance season is here, and let’s be real, the fashion is getting wilder by the minute! Gone are the days of simple dresses and understated hairstyles. Today’s Grade 12s are bringing the heat, and we’re not just talking about their dancing skills.

Think back to your matric dance days, or even just five years ago. The fashion has definitely evolved, with each passing year, the looks get more elaborate, more extravagant and more Instagram-worthy.

We are talking about quality human hair wig installations that would set you back with at least R3 000 to R5 000, flawless make-up and gowns that would give celebrities a run for their money. 

And let’s not forget the luxury cars and chauffeurs, because, why not? In addition to that, the date needs to match the energy and look equally lavish, possibly in a brand that can help pay off one’s car debt.

Many students have been sharing videos of themselves getting ready for their big day on social media.

Here are some examples from TikTok:

Why matric dance fashion has gone over the top

So, what is behind this matric dance fashion frenzy? One of the many reasons is the pressure to keep up with the classmates. 

Students are feeling the need to outdo each other with their outfits, and parents are willing to splurge to make sure their kids fit in. But let’s be honest, who would not want to look good on their special day while making a statement?

But it’s not just about fitting in; it’s also about standing out and making a statement. Social media plays a huge role in this. Students want to create a moment, get likes and go viral.

The generation gap and why the class of 2025 is taking it to the next level

It is no secret that different generations have different styles and priorities. The mid-2000s kids, who are currently in Grade 12, are a unique bunch. 

They are all about living their best lives, expressing themselves and having a good time. And when it comes to matric dance, they have certainly not been holding back. 

With the rise of social media and influencer culture, these students have been exposed to a world of fashion trends, luxury brands and A-list events. It’s no wonder they are bringing that same level of glamour and extravagance to their matric dance looks.

A matric dance celebration is one significant event that many learners look forward to, besides their results at the end of the year. It is a time to celebrate 12 years of being in school and the progress just before catching the whiff of reality in tertiary.

Lately, for many, it is also a night of glamour and showcasing their personalities outside of the school uniform that they wear all year.

Expensive outfits are not the only thing that comes with celebrating the occasion. In comes the perfect suite to get ready in while waiting for the perfect date, who, if the student is fortunate enough, could be a celebrity or well-known influencer.

In recent years, it has become increasingly popular for learners to invite well-known personalities to be their dates.

Of course, for all this to happen, the parents spend thousands of rands in efforts to make their children’s dream matric dance a reality.

While it is fun to see students expressing themselves and having a good time, one can’t help but wonder if the students are putting too much emphasis on material possessions and external validation, rather than the true meaning of the occasion.