Prom For Less!

Some proms have past, but some are just coming your way! Here are some ways to not spend a lot of money on prom!

Limo: Yes or No?

When it comes to having a limo for transportation, it all depends on how you have to get to your venue. I say it's a little much for junior prom. Also, some schools don't let you take limos for prom, like my school did. They can be expensive and in this economy, I say save your money and find something else to spend it on!

The Dress: Suggestions?

-For junior prom, I'd go with a cocktail dress. Find something cute and flirty. To save money, why not get a dress you can wear again? This way, you won't be spending too much. Go to outlet stores of designers like Betsey Johnson or BCBGMAXAZRIA. You can get dresses there for less and some styles you can't even find in department stores. Also, some dresses will cost you $100 or less. 

- The same goes for senior prom, only you might want more of a gown than a dress. A simple, long dress will do but make sure it's not too long. Try buying a pair of shoes first to get an idea of what color dress you want and also, this way you can try the dress on with the shoes to see how they look. 

- Still fit into your Sweet 16 or even your Bat Mitzvah dress? USE IT! My friend did this and she looked great! Not only that, but she saved so much money! My other friend took her 8th grade dance dress and just hemmed it! Great ideas that are great in times like these. 

Purse or Clutch?

I'd go with a clutch on this one. It really depends on how much stuff you're bringing. I used a small black purse that I got for $10 at Mandee. My friend, on the other hand, decided to use her sister's Coach clutch. Don't bring a huge handbag. A wristlet or clutch will do. If you're going to bring things like a camera and need a place to put your phone, try finding a medium or large clutch with a strap to put it on your wrist.

Makeup?

I say simple eyeshadow with a little blush and some lip gloss will do. I used Sephora's smokey eye kit to do my make up and it looked simple yet stunning! Try experimenting a few days before prom so you know what you'll be doing. 

Hair?

I didn't have time to get my hair done so I simply straightened it! If you're going to straighten your hair, get a cute headband or hair clip to put in. Or do some simple curls or an up do.

Shoes?

This might sound crazy, but I got my shoes at Payless! If you don't want to wear heels, why not wear some cute flats? Your feet won't kill you and I'm sure you can find a great pair. If you want a shoe for less, Payless has the Alice + Olivia line that is VERY stylish and cute. 

Before Prom?

Everyone knows that before prom, you get whoever your good friends are and take pictures. If you're taking a limo, get everyone to meet at your house or someone else's. I suggest meeting at someone's house that's convenient for everyone to get to. Have your parents and family take pictures of you and your date and even your friends! And don't forget to have some fun with it!

After Prom?

- Due to living just outside of NYC, a lot of my friends got party buses after and went to the city to a comedy club. I think this is a little much, considering party buses get crazy and won't you be tired after prom? Why not go bowling in your dress? A lot of my friends have done that and had a lot of fun. Or, do you have have friends that aren't going or couldn't attend prom? One of my best friends threw a small party in her backyard for a few hours and invited people who were and weren't even at prom. It makes your friends feel comfortable and a part of something. 

- If you're going to go to the city, at least save it for senior prom. Most likely, you and your friends will be at least 18 so you can pretty much go everywhere. If you really want to shell out some money, I've heard that some people in my school have rented houses on Fire Island or even in the Hamptons. This might cost a little much and you don't want to be caught cleaning up after the party!

ENJOY PROM EVERYONE!