Prom costs can add up fast. From the hair and makeup to the limo and after-prom activities, it’s easy in the midst of all the planning excitement for expenses to spiral out of control. You want prom to be an event you’ll always remember–but not because you went broke in the process. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to avoid spending beyond your means. Ahead, here’s how to prepare for prom so you’ll be able to enjoy the night without going into debt!
1. Start early.
Start saving for prom as early as six months ahead of time. Write down a list of all expenses to figure out exactly what prom costs. With estimates for things like the dress, accessories, hair and makeup, limo, and more, you’ll know what your approximate total will be (researching local businesses like florists and asking older pals what they spent can help give you an idea).
2. Figure out who is paying for what.
Are your parents helping with prom costs? Are you splitting certain expenses with your date? How much are prom tickets and is dinner included in the price? Once you know the amount you’re responsible for, you can get started working toward that goal.
3. Prioritize.
If you’re worried about how to come up with the money for everything on your prom planning list, figure out where you’re willing to splurge and where you’re willing to cut costs (ie: skipping the limo so you can get your makeup professionally done or coming up with inexpensive ideas for what to do after prom).
4. Brainstorm money-making ideas.
Whether it’s doing some extra babysitting shifts, getting a part-time job waiting tables or delivering groceries, walking your neighbor’s dog, or saving a certain amount from your allowance every week, there are all sorts of ways you can figure out how to earn and/or save money on prom. Get creative with it!
5. Don’t spend a fortune on the dress.
Looking like a movie star on prom night doesn’t mean you have to have a celebrity-level budget. If you’re looking for an affordable prom dress, we’ve (ahem) got some stylish ideas.
6. The same goes for accessories.
Extras like jewelry, handbags, and shoes don’t have to cost a fortune, either. If you’re super limited with spending, try borrowing accessories from a friend, or even an adult relative who might have some amazing vintage picks!
7. Try a two-piece prom dress to get extra bang for your buck.
Not only are two-piece dresses super on-trend, but you can also pull them apart for three outfits in one! Pair the skirt with a favorite tee or wear the top with jeans or a satin slip skirt and you’ve already saved on an afterparty outfit!
8. Or go for something simple and timeless that you can wear again.
Chances are you’ll eventually have another special occasion to attend, be it a college formal or a family wedding. A sleek, classic black dress never goes out of style and can be accessorized differently for different events: Wear it with sparkly statement earrings and lace-up heels for prom, then switch it up for your next party with a delicate necklace and romantic headband–you get the idea! For even more versatility, try something in midi or short length!
9. Don’t forget to check the sale section!
No matter what you’re shopping for–a prom dress, accessories, beauty products, and more–check the sale section! You never know what you might find there, and you could end up scoring big on a prom essential!
10. Skip the salon.
Do you have a friend who does amazing updos? Are you a makeup whiz? Enlist a talented pal to do your hair, do your own makeup, or vice versa (with the help of online prom hair tutorials and a fun playlist going in the background, of course). Or you can scout out your local beauty school–stylists and artists are often looking to test out their skills for less!
11. Do DIY Flowers.
Depending on your choice of where to get a corsage for prom, this floral finishing touch can range anywhere from around $25 to upwards of $50. If the local florist charges more than you want to spend, try taking a trip to the grocery and craft stores to make your own boutonniere or corsage or bouquet Be sure to leave yourself some time (the day before or day of) since flowers should be fresh.
12. Nail a faux manicure.
Instead of spending on fancy nail art, try nail stickers for a fun manicure alternative you can buy at the drugstore. Or find an easy DIY mani amongst our beauty tutorials!
13. Skip the professional spray tan, too.
Self-tanning lotion from the drugstore is a much more affordable alternative. Start ahead of time so you can get an idea of how deep a shade you want–and how long it lasts!
14. Avoid limo rental.
If a fancy ride to prom isn’t on your must-have list (they want how much to rent a limo for prom?), find an older sibling or family member who’s willing to drive you and a few friends. Or use a ride-hailing service like Lyft, Uber, or Juno to take you safely there and back.
15. Do dinner on the cheap.
If dinner isn’t included with the cost of prom tickets, websites like Restaurant.com, Groupon, and LivingSocial let you score deals on dining out. Of course, you can also always do a fun pre-party potluck, cookout, or takeout with friends. Just make sure not to spill on your dress!
How are you saving money on prom costs? Tell us in the comments–and shop affordable looks for the big night in our Prom Dresses shop!
This post was originally published in January 2019 and has been updated with new content.
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