Free Formal Wear, Accessories Available At Annual Prom Dress Giveaway

RESTON, VA — In what has become a cherished Reston tradition, middle and high school students will be able to shop for stylish formal wear at the 23rd Annual Diva Central Formal and Prom Dress Giveaway at RCC Lake Anne.

Many U.S. students spend from $600 to $1,000 or more for the dresses, shoes and accessories they purchase for their formal spring dance or prom, according to a 2023 Fortune.com report. The annual dress giveaway makes prom attendance more accessible and inclusive for students, while easing the financial burden that a "one-time" outfit might pose to a family's expenses.

"In addition to making prom more accessible, we hope that Diva Central helps students feel valued," said RCC Board Chair Beverly Cosham. "This event is designed to empower students by allowing them to choose a dress that makes them feel their best. Our goal is to enhance their sense of self-worth long after the event has concluded."

This year's dress giveaway will take place from 11 a.m.-3 p.m., on Saturday, at RCC Lake Anne, which is located at 1609-A Washington Plaza North in Reston. The event is open to any middle or high school student who needs a dress, shoes, jewelry and other accessories. Everything is free and shoppers may choose up to two outfits.

Patrons are asked to register in advance online. For additional information, please contact LaTanja Snelling, RCC Equity Partnerships Director, at 703-390-6180.

In February, members of the community donated hundreds of dresses in a variety of sizes, shoes, bags and other accessories for the giveaway. Mannequins were used to market the event at area schools, Reston Opportunity Neighborhood (RestON) communities and RCC facilities