Prom: Where to Save and Where to Splurge

Prom season is a stressful time. Trust me, I know. This is my second time on the prom circuit. The price tags can really add up with the dress, shoes, makeup, transportation, even the ticket alone! This guide will help you navigate the expensive world of prom, and help you decide where to save and where to splurge.

The Dress: Splurge
Prom is like your wedding in high school. The dress is the part you dream about forever...way before your date comes into the picture! Spend a little extra on your dream dress. Everyone talks about other girls' dresses the next day, and you want to be the one they remember first! Here's some beautiful prom dresses for all price ranges:

Nordstrom Tiered Chiffon Gown ($198)

This was my dress from last year. I absolutely loved it. It was really different from everyone else's dresses, and I got tons of compliments on it! I would definitely recommend it.

Macy's Boat Neck Rhinestone Maxi Gown

Hair: Save
Rather than getting your hair done at a fancy salon, do it yourself! There are so many beautiful, complicated-looking updos that really only take about 10 minutes! And it's such a nice feeling when someone compliments you on your hair and you can say, "Thank you! I did it myself." Here's a photo of my hair from last year. I did a side bun and added a flower garland.

Here's the link to my Hair and Makeup board on Pinterest. I've pinned a lot of pictures of updos as inspiration for Prom! Check it out: Hair and Makeup Board.

Makeup: Save
Save yourself the stress (and cash) of getting your makeup done at a salon. If you do it yourself, you don't have to worry about the makeup artist doing it wrong! There are so many drugstore products for ten dollars or less that can help create your most beautiful look ever! Here are the must-have products for Prom:
Lash Blast 24 Hour Mascara

With this great, long-lasting mascara, you don't have to worry about smudging or flaking! It'll look perfect all night long!

Outlast Double Lip Shine

This great lip gloss has two sides: one for color and one for shine. It's very long-lasting, so you won't have to be constantly reapplying!

Nails: Splurge
For your nails, splurge for the salon mani/pedi. Not only will it make your nails look absolutely gorgeous, it's a great opportunity for girl time with you and your friends! Organize a nail party by booking mani/pedis all at the same time, and use the time to bond by gossiping about your dates and bragging about your dress. A good policy for Prom nails: neutral on the hands, and bold on the feet. Try Essie's Ballet Slippers for your fingers! It's a soft, pretty pink, and will look great no matter what color your dress is.

Shoes: Save
No one will see them anyway! Rather than springing for designer shoes, try looking for less expensive shoes at places like Target or BP.

Flowers: Save
Rather than splurging on an expensive boutonniere for your date, make your own! Buy a fresh flower and some pretty leaves on the morning of the Prom, and wrap it in a pretty ribbon. Go to your grocery store florist and ask for a corsage pin, and use it to pin the flower to your date's tuxedo. You'll be the chicest couple there! Here's a photo of the boutonniere we made for my date last year:

Bag: Save
Search through your mom's closet! I'll bet she has a super chic vintage clutch. No one else will have it!

With this guide, you'll be able to navigate your way through Prom on a budget, and still have a blast!