As the timer starts and a topic is picked, the race is on to find an outfit that slays. This isn’t an outing with Mom at Macy’s. It’s a round of Roblox’s most recent and most popular rendition of an online competition that has exploded across the country. 

“My favorite theme is probably Ballerina. I get to use my items like tutus, a bun, and leggings,” said Alex P.

Roblox users have many different themes to choose from for their avatar’s outfit including coquette, beach, preppy, elegant, baddie, fairy and Barbie. There are also a myriad of accessories to choose from like necklaces, hats, sunglasses, nails, bracelets and earrings.

“I love being able to dress up in different styles, for different themes,” said Isabella V.  

However, some themes can be a bit confusing. Many teens opt toward “Custom Themes” because it is easier to “Dress to Impress” when you get to choose your character’s outfit. And that’s when things get pricey. Like all things digital, add-on purchases are part of the experience. VIP is one addition players can purchase to improve outfits, faces, hair and nails. The cost? 299 $R each month, which translates to roughly $5. Many people still find the upgrade worthwhile.

“Custom themes are probably my favorite. I would add more stuff in the VIP section, and more Halloween stuff. I want it to be updated and interesting for new outfits or accessories,” said Miya D.

Roblox also issues free codes to get exclusive clothing, accessories and faces. Most people are already aware of these advantages as shared codes like LANA, LEAHASHE and LABOOTS aren’t difficult to find on Tiktok and YouTube. 

“My favorite thing from the codes that I got was the bow. I use it when the theme is ballerina. Codes give you exclusive items for free that make your outfit better,” said Alex P.

As stereotypes go, “Dress to Impress” doesn’t only target girls. Though it’s noticeably limited, there is a section that’s designed to be more masculine with distinct shirts, shorts, pants and sneakers. 

“I would add way more things to the boys’ section. I think I would play more if the section was larger,” said Jeremiah J.

While other popular games like “Minecraft” are solo platforms where players play independently, “Dress to Impress” always involves interacting with others, including friends or among anonymous competitors. 

 “I only play with my sister and my friends because I don’t want to play it alone,” said Jeremiah J.

There are also pro servers composed of top Roblox competitors. Winning at this level isn’t easy, as these players are some of the best in the world.

“I have played in pro servers before, but it was really hard to win. I would recommend it when playing with friends because [friends] can give higher voting and help you win. It is easier when your friends give you better scores than other players,” said Alex P.

“Dress to Impress” isn’t without its critics. Leveling up takes hours of time that could be spent elsewhere. Reaching the status of ‘Top Model’ is no joke. 

“My parents tell me to get off the game and read. When people say it takes up my time, I just respond with: it’s not a game, it’s a lifestyle,” said Alex P.

In our screen-based world, games run the risk of becoming obsessions. Some players even claim it’s their “therapy” to escape from the struggles of the real world.

“I play it a lot. Probably like six hours a day. It definitely changes my mood; it makes me happy,” said Anna M.

She is not alone. According to thegamer.com 250,000 competitors play Dress to Impress at any given time, with nearly 3 billion total games played since its inception.