Female Dress Code Policy

In the interest of clarity and simplicity, TxCHP has updated our dress code policy. All female prom students will be required to wear gowns.

Behavior is an integral part of faith, belief, and practice; behavior at TxCHP events must conform to TxCHP’s Biblical moral, ethical, and behavioral standards. TxCHP’s dress code policy is a reflection of TxCHP’s religious beliefs. We expect parents to lead and direct their students in appropriate behavior, including dress code, while participating at TxCHP events.

This dress code policy is enforced at the sole discretion of TxCHP board members, and any TxCHP board member may make the final determination of whether a student is in compliance. Any student not permitted entry for a violation of this dress code may return to the dress check line after correcting the violation, but no refund will be issued for a student who is unwilling or unable to correct a dress code violation. If a student does not remain in compliance with the dress code throughout the event, the student may be required to leave without refund.

ACTION Team Advice

  • Prioritize being comfortable in your dress so you do not have to be overly concerned about adjusting your dress all evening.
  • Consider a dress that is not too tight or constraining.
  • Sit down in your dress to ensure you can comfortably sit and stand without wardrobe malfunctions.
  • We want you to be beautiful, as well as comfortable, while having the time of your life!
  • Clear lines make it easy to determine if your attire meets TxCHP dress code.
  • We use simple lines so that individual opinions regarding modesty or intent are not necessary.
  • We require dressing in conformance to one’s sex at birth. 

Permitted

  • Modest attire
  • Long gowns encouraged, but not required
  • The hem of your dress must be below the knee  (Due to time constraints, prom volunteers will not be able to add fabric to short dresses)
  • Slits in long gowns are allowed, but may not be higher than 3 inches above the center of your knee cap when walking or standing. (U-slits are not permitted)
  • Strapless gowns are allowed. However, it is your responsibility to ensure your gown stays in place throughout the evening
  • Dress back no lower than natural waistline
  • Midriff covered by non-see-through fabric in font and sides (no cutouts)
  • Two piece dresses may be worn if the top covers the skirt by at least 6 inches – if the top and skirt simply “meet in the middle,” it will not meet dress code and must be sewn together
  • Undergarments present but not visible
  • Dressy shoes, dressy sandals, dressy boots, or nice, clean, comfortable shoes to wear while dancing

Not Permitted

  • Pantsuits, jumpsuits, suits, and pants of any kind
  • Plunging necklines
  • Back of dress lower than the natural waistline
  • Cutouts in front or sides of dress (see additional clarification above)
  • No see through fabric within the defined Dress Code lines
  • Slits higher than 3 inches above the center of the knee cap and U-slits
  • Ball caps, other casual headwear
  • Costumes and/or Cosplay
  • Farm boots
  • Flip-flops
  • Offensive tattoos
Lovely ladies in the ballroom!

Additional Clarification for Dresses

  • The sides of the gown must extend under your arms when your arms are at your sides.
  • We may be able to allow a halfway point under your arm, if everything is appropriately covered.
  • Under the arm we are looking for coverage first. Exceptions may be possible if everything is fully covered.

Complete Alterations BEFORE Prom

  • If your dress does not comply with TxCHP dress code, you are responsible for all necessary alterations prior to entering prom.
  • TxCHP Volunteers will NOT alter slits or hemlines on site.
  • If your dress is too short, you will not be able to enter prom until your dress is brought into compliance. Our volunteers are unable to assist in lengthening dresses.
  • A fee of $5.00 (Zelle or cash) will be collected for TxCHP Volunteers to add a panel to your neckline. 

Dress Code Violations

  • TxCHP Volunteers will be checking for dress code violations throughout the evening. If you are pulled for a Dress Code violation and a fix is required, you will have three options:
  • Change into something that complies with TxCHP dress code.
  • Fix your own ensemble to comply with the TxCHP meet the dress code policy.
  • Allow TxCHP Volunteers to assist you with an appropriate quick fix. Volunteers will NOT alter dress slits or hemlines.

Please note: If you receive a fix and the fix is removed, you will be sent home. 

Wardrobe Malfunctions

  • TxCHP Volunteers are onsite all night to assist with wardrobe malfunctions (torn straps, pulled hems, broken zippers) that occur during prom.
  • Ask any Ballroom Attendant or Bathroom Attendant to help direct you to our Red Carpet Team for this assistance.

Changing Attire During Prom

  • Any alternative outfits must be checked in and left with Red Carpet on the Convention Center side, as you enter prom.
  • Alternative clothing changes (swing dance contest outfits, etc.) must also meet TxCHP Dress Code.
  • Any alternative outfit changes must be made upstairs, in the Red Carpet Dressing Room. You will be dress checked after changing to ensure you meet TxCHP dress code.
  • Students should return to the Red Carpet Dressing Room to change back into their prom attire after the swing dance competition.

Dancing Without Shoes

  • Dance barefoot at your own risk. If you choose to do so, you should make note of the location of the First Aid room. You may bring a pair of comfortable shoes for dancing.

Dress Code Final Thoughts

  • TxCHP Volunteers will be checking for dress code violations throughout the evening. 
  • TxCHP Volunteers will be available to help with adjustments for students who have wardrobe malfunctions.
  • Those not following dress code will be required to leave immediately. 
  • There will be no refunds for those removed due to dress code violations.
  • Photos of Dress Code violators will not be uploaded to the prom photo website.