Wiscasset Middle High School held its annual prom dress giveaway in the school library Tuesday.

Any girl who has attends her high school prom knows the dress she wears is of utmost importance. Prom is all about dancing, limos, coming of age and, of course, the dresses. A beautiful dress can help make a girl feel pretty and confident.

For anyone who may have been in need of a dress or gown for this year’s prom at WMHS, the Prom Dress Event is a must.

When Deb Gagnon started the tradition four years ago, it was for this very reason. WMHS Technology Coordinator and Student Council Leader Debra Pooler has been Gagnon’s partner in the event since its inception. “This was Deb (Gagnon’s) brainchild. She has a big heart, and lucky me, for some reason she chose me to help her.”

Along with the free dresses, there were volunteers doing makeup. And at a table with an array of nail polishes, students took turns polishing others’ nails. “It helps give the kids a prom feeling,” Pooler said.

There was a table full of refreshments – cheese and crackers, brownies, banana bread and juice, and fitting rooms off to the side, and a red carpet walk, for the students to model their chosen dresses.

All the dresses were free. Pooler said they are donated by the community, and some come with price tags still intact. 

A few boys were trying on dresses, too. “We don’t just have the people who need dresses come here. Anyone can come.” She said having the boys there just having fun makes it more comfortable and less formal for the students who want or need a dress. “Everybody gets into the mood.”

Pooler said the prom for high school students is put on by juniors. The Student Council and the Civil Rights Team help organize the event. “We’re a small school, and the kids are really good about working together for whatever cause. We have awesome kids at WMHS.”

Between 50 and 75 dresses were up for grabs Tuesday. If interested in donating a prom dress for next year’s event,  contact Pooler at WMHS.