Shopping for Prom on a Budget

Prom season is just around the corner and many formalwear rental shops have quit renting formal attire. Even though the Yellow Pages have not been changed, shops state over the phone that they no longer rent out prom and bridal fashions and anything at their shop will have to be purchased. The harsh reality is that many teens will buy prom dresses ranging in price from $200 to $400 (or more); only to wear it once and hope it can be sold at a consignment shop after cleaning.

Low income families will have to tighten their budget and some will have to borrow from family members or sell something of value just so their child can attend prom this spring. The good news is that all is not lost if you are among the lower income bracket, and have a high school senior making plans to dance the night away in just a few short months. These tips can help your prom queen find a dress she loves, without having to spend a lot of money you can't afford to part with.

Check the classified section of your local newspaper. Most of the dresses listed were only worn once, and are still in fashion. The ads often include dress size, but keep in mind that any dress you buy, new or used, will more than likely have to be altered to the wearer's measurements and height. For example, not all size seven women have the same measurements. It's less costly to pay $100 or less for a dress plus alteration fees than to pay $400 and get the courtesy alteration from a formal shop.

Keep your eye out for bridal shops that are having huge sales. Many bridal shops mark their dresses 50 to 70 percent off in the winter months, and they don't just sell bridal gowns. Dresses that can be used as bride's maid dresses can also be used for prom dresses, so check those shops out. Keep in mind some wedding gowns are not white or traditional style, and can also be worn for prom.

Formalwear shops specializing in prom and pageant dresses usually start putting dresses made of heavier fabric on clearance around February to make room for spring and summer formalwear. Depending on what state you live in, the weather may still be cool enough in May for a dress made with heavier fabric or long sleeves. A dress valued at $300 may be sold for $100 during this time, and alterations may be done free of charge as a courtesy for buying your dress at their shop.

If you buy a new dress, ask about alterations before purchase. You can cut your expenses if you select shops that have an in-house seamstress. Make certain that you bring a pair of shoes that have a heel on them the same height as the heel of the shoes you are going to purchase to wear with your dress so that the length can be altered correctly. Also, if you plan on wearing silicone push-up inserts or any other body enhancing piece of lingerie, bring the items with you to put on at the time you try on dresses. Any dress altered without these items will not fit properly if they are used prom night.

In lieu of having acrylic or gel nail tips done at a salon just for prom, try purchasing glue on nails at a retail chain. Unless you plan on making bi-weekly appointments to have nails filled in and retouched later, inexpensive glue on fashion nails will look just as good for prom pictures for a fraction of the cost. Glue on nails have come a long way through the years, and come in various designs including French manicure and decorated tips. The cost of ready-made nails is usually 1/3 of the price of acrylics, and they look just as beautiful.

Hair salons will be booked well in advance, so make sure you reserve your spot in the beautician's chair. If salons are too costly, try a beauty college. Many beauty colleges have great deals as well. If you're a bit leery of having your hair done at a beauty college, make sure you request a senior when you make an appointment to have your hair done. Seniors at beauty colleges are soon to graduate, and have the same skills a beautician at a salon has, for half the cost. Keep in mind students at beauty colleges will have a licensed instructor watching and assisting, so mistakes are often avoided. When you get your hair styled for prom, be clear with what you want, and bring photos of the style you want with you. Magazines and the internet are great places to search for the look you want.

Prom is a memorable occasion, but it doesn't have to break the bank. Keep an eye out for bargains at consignment shops and end-of-season sales. Try to purchase dresses at least a month in advance, incase alterations are needed. Shop around, and only spend what you can afford to part with. Over-spending can compromise your household bills, and cause undue stress that could be avoided.