Prom is usually an expensive occasion for students with bids from $60 to $125, dresses from $75 to several hundred, and makeup and hair additionally. Prom, however, doesn’t need to be extravagant or over-the-top costly.

Senior Jadeanne Domanguera said, “Prom bids are already so expensive and I don’t want to add more to the expense. I try to shop for inexpensive, but elegant, prom dresses online and I make sure I get my makeup and nails done for a reasonable price.”

Hair, nails and makeup for prom are services that most girls believe are indispensable. Less costly solutions for these essentials can be found on Youtube tutorials or getting together with friends to do each other’s hair, nails and even makeup.

A few tips that can also alleviate expenses include shopping for formal wear at consignment stores or online, having makeup done at a department store’s cosmetics department or enlisting a friend to help, splitting the cost of a limo with other couples, or simply driving to the prom.

“I am getting my makeup done at Sephora since they charge a reasonable price compared to other salons. I also do my nails myself since it runs $40 to $50 at salons. I also chose not to rent a limo and have my date drive us to the dance since we’re on a budget,” said junior Shayla Trinidad.

Prom does not need to be a costly experience and is possible for those who want to go but want to enjoy the event without great financial expenses.