Diva Central Formal And Prom Dress Giveaway Returns To RCC Lake Anne

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 22nd 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 Fortune.com. 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.

“When we started this program more than two decades ago, RCC was the only local organization offering such an event,” said RCC Board Chair Beverly Cosham.“Since then, we’ve been joined by several other similar offerings for young people. We are delighted it has proven to be such a success.”

This year's dress giveaway will take place Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at RCC Lake Anne, which is located at 1609-A Washington Plaza N 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 through myRCC. For additional information, please contact LaTanja Snelling, RCC Equity Partnerships Director, at 703-390-6158.

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.

The Diva Central Dress Giveaway underscores also promotes the reuse and repurposing of clothing to foster a more eco-conscious approach to fashion, reflecting the shared values and commitment to environmental stewardship.