creeping americanisation
 

We are definitely becoming americanised.

When I left school we were told to p1ss off and not come back. When my kids left school they attended a valedictory night of expensive frocks, limousines, dancing and speeches, then off somewhere to party. Son went up to where it was being hosted to mock the loosers.

Tonight we (wife and I) have to attend my mates house to see off our god daughter in her expensive posh frock and limousine. But to her "prom".

FFS I ask you, it was bad enough when they dressed it up and called it a valedictory, now they call it a prom. Why do they do it. My friend has paid over a month of her wage for her daughter to go on this one night out. She is fortunate that they are a two wage (But not highly paid) family. How do "poor" kids cope?

I know from my daughters they never wore their posh frocks a second time and a hundred quid hair do only lasts the night. I know it is probably the last time they will see most of the people who bullied them, mugged them, stole from them and generally made the last 5 years horrible. So why are mostly girls so damm eager to spend a fortune of their parents money for a night with people they don't even like?

Re: creeping americanisation
 

They called it a 'prom' way back in 1993* Tim, and most likely in years prior to that too.

Its not that much of a new thing.

* I now feel very old!

Re: creeping americanisation
 

I obviously attended the wrong type of school. (All boys).

My kids were quite forcibly told it is a valedictory night.

But at the end of the day. Why are parents put on the spot to pay out a fortune for their kids to have a night out at a local hotel. The function is not a bad price. It is the stupid competition they get into for the hair, make up, frock and limo. FFS don't drop of little Britney in the family focus, she will die of embarrassment.

Re: creeping americanisation
 

A what night?!?!?

i left 1994 and we had a school disco and that was it - the awards ceremony was at the end of term andto date that all they still get. 6th years have the options of going outhwith school but everyone else is a disco in the school hall

Re: creeping americanisation
 

We call them "Formals" in NI and it's bloody money making racket! Mrs BH's son had one a while back, so he needed a new suit, his GF, who he dumped a week later needed a new frock, they were conveyed there in a stretch limo and after drinking half their weight in alcopops were poured into a taxi home which needed paying for. :rolleyes:

Total cost wasn't that much shy of £500, the Limo alone was £150.

In fairness he wears the suit most weekends, looks like a cross between Marilyn Manson and Al Capone.

Re: creeping americanisation
 

We had our prom at school. I was head of 'theatre props' back then so decorated the main hall to suit.

I know these days they go to a hotel for some schools. Whats the harm in getting dressed up for your leaving school do?


I just think you're being grumpy again! :)

Re: creeping americanisation
 

I had a black velvet jasper conran dress for mine.

tho i was yearbook photographer so i was doing other things!!

Re: creeping americanisation
 

Yearbook???? It's getting worse. :rolleyes:

Re: creeping americanisation
 

Yearbook photographer!

FFS the police could have supplied 3 photos of each of all my year.

Re: creeping americanisation
 

I just haggled in oxfam for a suit and walked there tinnys in hand. Is that the British equivalent?