MIND MAP SURVIVE THE DANCE Of course, Matric Farewell is a so-called “rite of passage” – a milestone on the “journey through adolescence”. It celebrates the end of school bells and text books (even if just for a few months before tertiary study starts for some). But let’s face it, sometimes the dance is not always as glamorous as it is made out to be. Yes – you know them. The girls and guys who have it all figured out for their “big day” in the spotlight. They have been choosing fabric, shoes and dates since last year June. They look forward to Matric Farewell with the cool and ease of a Gomez or Bieber on the Red Carpet. Then, there are those who are still unsure about everything – including who to ask (who they asked!), what to do – and their choice of dress/suit (was it the right choice?), they are worried about armpit sweat stains and yellow teeth - and exactly how to smile without looking like a fool next to your date. Many mere Matric mortals will ask - is it all worth it? So how does a person go about enjoying the occasion without the stress, without the worry, and making it a night to remember for all the right reasons? Well, here are a few ideas, or tips to make the occasion less of a headache and more of a wonderful memory.
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1.THE DATE: This is probably the most difficult part for most people. It’s easy for those in relationships at the time of the occasion, but that’s relatively few, so what about everyone else? Remember that the person you ask to the dance is not the person you have to marry and spend the rest of your life with. Some people prefer to ask a close friend who they feel comfortable with because they know they’ll have a good time together. Others prefer to take a risk and ask a complete stranger, and that’s okay. You need to make sure that you are comfortable around that person; otherwise you will spend the evening worrying about whether or not they are enjoying themselves instead of just relaxing and enjoying the occasion yourself.
If you are unsure, team up with a group of friends and ask another group of friends. 2. THE OUTFIT? Don’t be scared to let your personality and unique style shine through. Individual taste and individual style is key. You do not have to spend a fortune on clothing that often lacks character. People can look stylish and unique on a very small budget. Don’t feel pressured to spend, spend, spend like the Gomez and Bieber of this world. Already have your dress? Wear it with confidence! Don’t compare yourself with Selena. You are gorgeous, young and unique. The colour and style of your dress will matter less in 10 years time than the smile you wore! Formal dress for gents is a lot easier than for ladies. Although, still within the constraints of a jacket and tie, let your personality shine through! Think about accessories. Scottish? You can rock that kilt! 3. THE DO’S AND DON’TS Before you read this, your parents would’ve given you a long list of do’s and dont’s for matric dance night. There are, in fact, only two things to say: firstly enjoy yourself, and secondly be safe. Do not give in to the pressures of others; do not be forced into doing anything you know is wrong or risky. You should want this occasion to be memorable for all the right reasons, and not regret it for the wrong ones. The biggest danger of any matric dance (or any other party) is the after party. Some argue that the after party offers all the risks and dangers one could imagine. Make sure you have spoken about the risks with your parents first. Tell them where you will be all evening. Make sure that you can be contacted. Have a cell phone with you at all times. Do not be forced into drinking if you do not want to, and most importantly, stay in control of your actions and decisions. Arrange for a safe lift home, and (duh) don’t get into a car with someone who has been drinking. Greg Crighton Educational Psychologist (Trust the expert!)
DISASTER DANCE
5 THINGS NOT TO DO: A GUYS’ GUIDE 1. DON’T RUIN YOUR PARENTS FINANCIALLY Spending a fortune isn’t the only way to look like a million bucks. Consider renting your outfit. If you are going to buy your suit or tuxedo, be practical about what you buy and whether you will have a use for it afterwards. Many young men go to university afterwards, where a good suit or tuxedo can be used again for formal social events. Most young men are very trendy and retailers will always offer something new every season - so be wise in making the correct choices to suit your pocket. 2. DON’T FALL INTO A FASHION TRAP Fashion trends in SA are 6 months behind the overseas market - so what is featured on TV or magazines might not necessarily be readily available here. Check with local retailers what is in for that particular season 3. DON’T GET IT WRONG Always check the invitation for a dress code. For black tie think Daniel Craig in a tuxedo. For a formal affair think Will Smith - you will make a dark suit look good too. 4. DON’T BE HER PARTNER IN CRIME Liaise with your partner whether she is wearing a very formal garment (long dress or ball gown) or a shorter cocktail dress. Mirror your lady’s level of dressing and step it up, or down. Never overshadow your partner - you will NEVER go wrong wearing a black tuxedo with a white dress shirt and a black bow tie. Should your partner want you to repeat a colour that she is wearing - do so with a coloured bow tie - or if you are wearing a suit pick up the colour in a tie or even a ‘pocketchief.’ Always remember it is very difficult to match a colour to perfection. Remember that photos last forever, and a bright lime green suit may make you look more like Bozo than Bond 10 years from now. 5. DON’T BE GUILTY OF AN EPIC FEET FAIL Always match your socks to your trousers - white socks are cool but an absolute no-no when dressing up for a formal occasion. Choose shoes which can be worn afterwards. Make sure to buy them some time before the event to walk them in… big ‘Bronx’ might be great with jeans but are not suitable for formal wear. Article supplied by Nevills | Nelspruit
DISASTER DANCE 8 WAYS TO LOOK PRETTY RIDICULOUS ON YOUR BIG NIGHT 1. PICK THE WRONG COLOUR
Start with colour. The right colour can compliment you and let you stand out; and the wrong color can be disasterous for your skin tone. Get it wrong, and you and your dress will be screaming for the wrong attention, instead of gracefully inviting it.
2. SHOW TOO MUCH AND TOO LITTLE
If you are built like a race horse, show a little, but dont give it all away. Your Matric Farewell is an honorable event, not a catwalk. FYI: lovehandels cover them up, nobody wants to see them!
3. DO JERSEYLICIOUS
If you are a glitter girl, add some detail on your dress. But do not over do it. Style trumps sparkle every time.
4. GO SNOW WHITE
You will look like a princess in a short or long dress. But if it is short, make sure your milky legs don’t hijack the attention!
5. CINDERELLA’S SLIP-UP
Always make sure your shoes are as pretty as they are comfortable. It’s a long walk from the car to the hall and you do not want to slip and fall! Never ever wear flats in any gown. It’s one night to proudly wear heels. The secret is to practice, practice, practice. Every evening dress and body shape are complimented with high heels!
BELL & BOOK TIP: Consider High Heel Mate inserts
for high heels (see page 9). These change the way your feet sit inside your shoes, your high heels feel less high - and less painful!
6. REMEMBER RAPUNZEL
Make sure your hair compliments your dress. If you are wearing a jacket with a collar, an updo will show off your jacket, while a loose and straight hair style willl soften your strapless dress.
7. MAIDEN TO MAITRON
Do not over-do your make up. You are still young, make yourself beautiful, not older!
8. VICTORIA’S (UNCOMFORTABLE) SECRET
Ensure that there is no pinching, riding, rolling or spilling - anywhere. If you are comfortable, you will look relaxed and natural ... and your best. Article supplied by Jola. I’Langa Mall | Nelspruit