It’s Winter Formal time, and love is in the air. No, you weren’t hallucinating, another girl just came into your fifth period with a bouquet of roses. And the rumors are true — that shy guy finally got the guts to ask his friend to be his date.
Dateless? It happens.
Among the adorable videos of guys painting “Formal?” across girlfriends’ cars, and the smiling couples standing in the ticket line, it may not be easy to buy a dance ticket knowing you’ll be posing alone this year.
Some students, however, have positive outlooks on going solo.
Sophomore Alexis Freiermuth said, “Going without a date means spending more time with my friends, rather than worrying if my date is having a good time. That’s a great benefit.”
Senior Natalie Tussy said, “When I go alone, I can make the night whatever I want it to be. Not to mention, I can wear the highest heels without worrying that I’ll be taller than a date.”
So, before you resort to a night full of Netflix and Facebook stalking instead of going to formal, think twice about the benefits that come with the responsibility of pouring your own punch:
- You can eat as much as you want at the before-party.
“Pass the mini pizzas please. And the chips. And the dip. And, while you’re at it, you can hand over that whole tray over there!” Yep, there is no questioning date watching while you eat your weight in appetizers.
- You can freely photobomb the stiff, posed photos being staged around you.
No one to pose with as your heels slowly sink into the grass of your friend’s backyard? Pop in the back of a few photos with a peace sign a la middle school.
- You can buy your outfit the night before.
No need to coordinate colors here.
- You don’t have to pay for anyone else’s food, tickets, or photos.
You’ll actually have some money left over for In-N-out after the dance this time!
- You don’t have to take awkward professional photos with a date.
Should the girl’s hand stay by her side or rest lightly on the guy’s stomach? Is it too provocative if the guy’s hand is on her lower back — like very low on her back? Lucky you, you don’t have to figure it out.
- You don’t have to worry about “making a move.”
“Save room for Jesus” is so middle school. Still, with a date, the awkwardness may ensue if you haven’t DTR’d (defined the relationship).
- There is no sad puppy dog date following you around the whole time.
Or, let’s just admit it — maybe you would have been the one cautiously following around your date.
- You can have fun with and pay attention to your friends.
Going solo means no more pulling up her dress or tugging at his ill-fitting tux. You can just enjoy the company of your friends, and note their terrible dancing skills.
- You can dance like no one is watching.
Let’s be honest — no one is.
1. The dance is all about YOU having fun, no one else.
