Formal attire required!

But what to choose? 1960s, 1970s, or 1980s? I thought it would be easier to find a retro or vintage prom dress or bridesmaid dress at the local thrift stores, but so far I haven't been successful. Fortunately, I can sew, so I dug through my extensive stash of old patterns (yes, I know, it is a strange thing to enjoy collecting) and found three that I think represent their eras very well. We have the simple, chic straight lines of the late 60s (Butterick pattern), the sweet, back to nature earth mother of the 70s (Simplicity pattern), and the over-the-top, look at me voluminous dress of the 80s (McCalls pattern ... although for you purists, this particular pattern is actually from 1991.) I'm leaning towards the 60s gown because it looks like it would be quicker to sew. Plus, as Anne pointed out, a large skirt could prohibit the movement required for our crowd-pleasing, awe-inspiring maneuvers with the book carts! It just wouldn't be Diva-like to fall face down in the street after getting tangled in the wheels of a cart.