What is acceptable to wear to prom?

When it comes to prom attire, what exactly constitutes as acceptable? Is it solely about adhering to a strict dress code, or is there room for personal expression and creativity? Should one opt for a traditional gown or tuxedo, or is it now acceptable to push the boundaries with more avant-garde or unconventional styles? How do cultural norms and individual school policies factor into this decision? And ultimately, how does one balance the desire to stand out from the crowd with the need to maintain a sense of appropriateness and respect for the occasion?