“Make Sure You Pass”: Matric Dance Gives Wedding Vibes in Stunning TikTok Video
- A South African matriculant's grand preparation captured attention for its bridal-level effort and creativity
 - The professionally shot video gave viewers a glimpse into how matric dances have become red-carpet events
 - Reactions online poured in as people admired the confidence and flair shown in the trending clip
 - Briefly News reached out to Beats by Nisa, a Pretoria-based makeup artist, for her professional insights on the emotional and empowering side of makeup during matric dance season
 
South Africans were amazed by the glamorous effort behind one student’s matric dance, which turned an ordinary celebration into a moment that felt straight out of a wedding scene.

Source: Getty Images
A TikTok video posted by @sonke_media_photography on 17 August 2025 has captured the attention of thousands across South Africa. The clip shows a matriculant preparing for her big night with all the flair of a bride on her wedding day. She begins dressed in a white gown, similar to those worn by brides before their ceremonies, and moves on to show her elegant shoes, perfume, and accessories. The beautifully styled moments were captured by a professional photographer, adding to the luxurious atmosphere and leaving viewers impressed by the amount of detail and effort put into the occasion.

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The visuals in the video, posted by user @sonke_media_photography, stood out for their clean and polished production. Each frame, from the preparation scenes to the final look, was handled with creativity and precision. The lighting, the editing, and even the camera angles gave the short clip a cinematic quality, elevating what could have been a simple moment into a memorable event. It’s a glimpse into how matric dances have become more than just farewell evenings; they’ve turned into celebrations of identity and confidence.
SA praises the bridal-inspired celebration
Within days of being posted, the video received over 3,500 likes and drew hundreds of comments from South Africans who couldn’t stop talking about it. Many users reshared the post, calling it one of the most beautiful matric transformations of the season. The video’s engagement highlighted just how much people appreciate seeing young South Africans celebrating themselves in grand style. As it spread across other social media platforms, it became a trending moment of admiration and surprise.
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The reaction online was filled with positive energy. Viewers were amazed by how far matric dance fashion and creativity have come, saying it reflects how young people today embrace celebration with pride. Others commented that the level of detail made it feel like a wedding reveal rather than a high school dance. Overall, it became a symbol of how style, effort, and confidence continue to shape South Africa’s matric culture.
Beats by Nisa shared her thoughts with Briefly News on how makeup influences confidence, especially among young women preparing for milestone events like matric dances. She believes makeup is more than just appearance; it’s about self-discovery, empowerment, and celebrating one’s natural beauty.
“Many people often think they don’t look beautiful with makeup, and this is especially common among dark-skinned ladies. Often, it’s because they’ve had bad experiences in the past, makeup artists not getting their shades right, or seeing someone with a similar complexion not look good in makeup. Others simply feel they don’t meet society’s beauty standards. Makeup, when done correctly, enhances a person’s natural features and helps them feel more confident and socially accepted.”
Having worked closely with first-time makeup clients during matric dance season, Nisa shared that these moments often turn emotional, particularly when parents witness their children’s transformations.
“I deal with a lot of these emotional reveals during matric dance season. Many parents initially have a negative view of makeup, seeing it as rebellion or a way to hide oneself. But when they see their children glowing with confidence and self-esteem, their perception changes, they start to understand that makeup can be about expression, not disguise."

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Source: TikTok
Mzansi reacts to the extravagant matric dance
Tee said:
“Glad I’m not in matric; the pressure is getting worse.”
Lesegomaledi commented:
“Me thinking what matric dance will look like when my 2-month-old son gets to matric. 🙆🏻♀️”
Life with Sandy Kathindi wrote:
“Was now so confused, had to look twice to understand. First thought it was a school kid from behind, then I thought it was her wedding with all the decorations. 💍😂”
Bongie said:
“God, please pour into my cup so I can do this for my niece. 😩 She’s 15. You look beautiful.”
Mariska commented:
“Love the dress! Not revealing. 🤍 Surely you danced all night without trying to keep the dress up! 🤩”
User5609203775664 wrote:
“Only for the rich… You are blessed indeed.”
Twinkle said:
“Imagine the wedding if matric was like this, hope the results are as striking.”
Tebogo commented:
“Girl, you’re getting married to your distinctions. 🥳🎉 Go and grab them, this is beautiful.”
Check out the TikTok video below:
3 Other Briefly News stories about matric dance
- South African learners took to TikTok, showing their stunning matric dance transformations from school uniforms to glamorous dresses.
 - A matric dance video captured attention for blending modern style with traditional cultural fashion.
 - One matriculant proved that you don’t need to spend thousands to look stunning at your matric dance under R3000.
 
Source: Briefly News

