How to Do Prom on a Budget (Without Looking Like It)

Let’s be real — prom is basically the Met Gala of high school. But the price tag? Kinda rude. Between the dress, tickets, glam, and everything in between, prom can get expensive fast. But don’t stress — I’m breaking down how to slay the night without draining your bank account (or your parents’).

1. Set a Spending Limit (Like, for Real)

Before you get caught up in the Pinterest boards and TikTok hauls, sit down and decide what your total budget is. Whether that’s $100 or $500, having a firm number gives you a game plan.

Break it down

• Dress/outfit: 40–50%

• Hair/makeup: 10–15%

• Ticket: 10–20%

• Dinner: 10%

• Transportation & extras: 10–20%

Keep it flexible, but know where your limit is. It’s way too easy to go over if you don’t track!

2. Prioritize the Pieces That Matter Most

Ask yourself: What will actually make me feel amazing?

Is it the dress? Then splurge a little there and DIY your glam. Is it the photos? Maybe invest in a good hair day or pro makeup. Love the pre-prom dinner? Keep the outfit minimal and book a cute restaurant.

Focus on the one or two things that will make the night feel special to you.

3. Where to Cut Costs (and Still Look Good Doing It)

• The Dress/Outfit:
  Borrow, rent, or thrift. Seriously. Facebook Marketplace, Depop, or even your older cousin’s closet could be hiding your perfect prom look. And don’t sleep on bridesmaid dresses — they’re trending and usually under $100.

• Glam:
  Hit up YouTube for makeup tutorials and practice ahead of time. Or, go in on a mobile makeup artist with a group of friends and split the cost.

• Dinner:
  Skip the $$$ steakhouse and go for a cute café, picnic, or make it a backyard pizza party with fairy lights. It’s all about the vibe.

• Transportation:
  A limo’s fun, but an Uber XL or parent carpool with music and snacks does the job just fine.

• Photos:
  iPhones + golden hour = free content. Ask a friend’s older sibling or photography student to take a few polished shots if you want extra pro vibes.

4. 💡 Little Tips That Add Up

• Buy things secondhand or resale when possible.

• Join group chats to split costs on transportation or decorations.

• Don’t underestimate DIY — from making your own corsage to nails, YouTube is your budget bestie.