Prom can be an expensive experience for juniors and seniors with bids ranging from $70 to $100 per person, dresses from $50 to several hundred and makeup and hair costs in addition. Yet, prom doesn’t need to be extravagant or over-the-top and expensive.

For most girls, the most expensive part of the prom experience is the dress. Dresses can be expensive because of the fabric or design. Girls sometimes pay hundreds of dollars for a dress worn only once.

Senior Ashley Barley said, “ The dress for my Junior Prom was really expensive. After prom I realized that it was somewhat of a waste because I only wore it for one night and because the design is very prom-like, I won’t have another occasion to wear it. This year I am being smarter with my money and looking for a dress just as beautiful but for less.”

Dresses are not only found at well known stores, such as David’s, but also at second-hand shops and other stores including Macy’s and Sears.

Senior Nadia Busekrus said, “ I found my dress at a second- hand shop, and it was only $13. I am very conscious of my spending, and I did not want to spend an extravagant amount of money for a dress.”

Hair, nails and makeup for prom are also expenses that every girl believes are indispensable. Easy solutions for these essentials can be found on Youtube tutorials or getting together with friends to do each other’s hair, nails and makeup.

Junior Erica Freitas said, “I am doing my own makeup and hair. Prom bids are already expensive and I did not need to add to the bill. I can learn how to do the makeup and hairstyle I want  so instead of paying for others to do it, I can take the time and do it myself for free.”

Prom does not need to be an expensive experience and is possible for those who don’t have a surplus of extra money to enjoy the experience as well.