Formal and semi-formal season is upon us. The possibilities for these evenings are practically endless. Options can range from a heels-and-bowties classy evening to a tropical luau, and even to an event that painfully resembles something of a redneck-plaid loving-Hillbilly convention. 

Whatever the case may be, a common denominator of such events is the date component. Let's identify the options.

The Boyfriend/Girlfriend Crutch

Congratulations! No kerfuffle necessary. Give yourself a pat on the back for being a tied-down college student. Taking the boyfriend or girlfriend route is generally a painless and low-stress option. Be sure to notify your significant other in advance to coordinate and be prepared to make other arrangements if a conflict on that day presents itself.

The Single and Desperately trying to Mingle

Kudos to you for owning responsibility! The time has come to blossom socially, feign enthusiasm with acquaintances, and be on the prowl at all hours. Crank out some pro-con lists for your potential candidates, strike up conversation with that dapper individual you always have your eye on in class, and don’t be scared to text “Ben Biology Lab” or “South Dakota Cutie” from your phone’s address book. Now is the time to pool your options and handpick the most appealing, available, and non-awkward choice.      

The Risky Business Setup

If the thought of finding a date on your own makes you feel like you’ve mainlined a laxative or if you are simply experiencing a time of drought, seek aid from your brotherhood or sisterhood. Blind dates can be a major leap of faith and potentially a blunder, but they are also a great option because they lift a lot of pressure off you. 

If it goes poorly, your matchmaker will likely feel obligated to pacify you with a Coke and a smile, and you’ll definitely have a comical story to freak out the next friend, acquaintance, or heck, even stranger that is venturing out on a blind date. As long as your date doesn’t wear plaid golf knickers or intently flash you the formidable “This is a forever thing, right?” look upon first meeting them, you really don’t have much to complain about.      

The Classic Friend-Zone

“If the friend zone had a leader, I would be that leader.” If you personally feel that this statement applies to you, then capitalize on this resource. Bringing someone as a friend to a formal poses many benefits. Genuine fun times, zero burdens, bonding, and for some, chances to further acknowledge that individual’s place in the friend-zone. This foolproof option is really a tried-and-true classic.  

Whomever you end up taking, or even if “invisible and nonexistent” ends up being your date of choice, recognize that one evening will not compromise your social standing or permanently haunt you and your immediate family. Enjoy these experiences while you still have the ability to. Cheers, and happy formal season!