“Dress the dream” is an opportunity for Cavalier students to have a chance to find the perfect dress but without the outstanding price.
The way the system works is individuals donate dresses that they no longer use and then they are offered to students at no cost. Dresses are hung up in the fishbowl and organized by size. After being sorted, the layout resembles a professional dress shop.
Clover Hill art teachers, Haley Ferguson and Breanna Ferguson are some of the Dress the Dream staff. They volunteer their time to help others feel the joy that prom brings to them.
“I don’t even have the words to explain how awesome it is to get to help students find their prom dress. It’s probably my favorite thing I do here at Clover Hill,” said H. Ferguson.
“It’s truly the most rewarding experience getting to support students in this way, and seeing how the community has rallied around us to help by donating as much as they have is incredible,” said B. Ferguson.
Another positive aspect that comes with this program is the dress choices come in a wide variety with tons of sizes.
“This year we had over 400 dresses ranging from sizes 00-26, so there really is something for everyone! We’ve been so fortunate to have such a wonderful response from the community that’s allowed us to continue to restock as quickly as we give dresses away” said B. Ferguson.
With substantial numbers of dress they also come in all different colors, and styles.
“We’ve got some sleek simple dresses, some vintage, some beaded, and some that I know cost several hundred dollars. Every time I look at the racks, I find a new one that I’ve never seen before,” said B. Ferguson.
The success of this establishment has exceeded expectations, leading to ideas of expansion into the homecoming department.
“We actually have a small collection started and do plan to offer a program on a smaller scale next year. We’re hopeful to grow that collection so that we can do the same thing as the prom attire,” said H. Ferguson.
Dress the Dream makes a meaningful impact on acquiring a dress and allows students an opportunity to find their perfect dress for free.
We encourage other schools to promote this opportunity to their own students and staff, it is an unforgettable experience.