Prom night is one of the best nights of a high school student’s life, but let’s be honest: the costs can add up fast. Going to prom can be very expensive because of the tickets, transportation, and extras. The good news?
You don’t need to spend a lot of money to look great! If you plan and shop smart, you can find a beautiful prom dress without spending much money. Let’s discuss some useful tips and places to find cheap prom dresses.
1. Begin Looking Early
Time is very important if you want to make a deal. Many people go to prom in the spring, but stores start getting dresses out months before that. You can find more styles and better deals if you start your hunt early. Plus, you won’t have to stress out at the last minute!
Tip: January and February are great times to look for prom dresses because shops are removing holiday party clothes to make room for new ones. Get the most out of these sales after the holidays!
2. Look Around At Outlet And Discount Stores
You don’t have to spend much on name brands when outlet and discount shops have great choices. Evening dresses can be found at stores like TJ Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls for a lot less money than they cost in major stores.
You can also find great deals on prom dresses at outlet shops. Formal clothing is often sold at stores like David’s Bridal and Nordstrom Rack.
Extra Tip: If you live near a big city, outlet stores may have more brand dresses at lower prices.
3. Check Out Thrift And Used Goods Stores
Why not wear a dress again? Not only does shopping save you money, but it also helps the environment. Formal dresses still in great shape can often be found at thrift stores like Goodwill, Salvation Army, and local antique shops for a small part of what they cost new. You might discover a one-of-a-kind prom dress that no one else will choose.
Tip: People selling their own gently used clothes on websites like Poshmark and Depop offer prom dresses. This way, you can get luxury brands for a lot less money.
4. Online Retailers: Affordable Finds At Your Fingertips
It’s easy to shop online, and you can often find great deals without leaving your house. Websites like ASOS, Boohoo, and Lulus have a wide range of prom dresses at prices that won’t break the bank. Stores that only sell online usually have lower costs, so their prices are lower for customers.
Tip: Look for holiday sales like Black Friday and Memorial Day, when prices are often reduced even further.
5. If You Don’t Want To Buy, Rent
To be honest, most prom skirts are only worn once. Instead of buying a dress, why not rent one? You can rent luxury dresses from sites like Rent the Runway and Lending Luxury for much less than they would cost in stores.
A nice dress is yours to wear, and you can return it after the event. It won’t be sitting in your closet forever.
Bonus Tip: Some stores and formalwear shops in your area may also rent clothes, so make sure you look around.
6. DIY And Make It Your Own
If you like to make things, you could buy a simple, cheap dress and change it to fit your style. By adding embellishments, changing the length, or changing features like the straps or sleeves, a simple dress can be turned into a one-of-a-kind, eye-catching gown.
Tip: To add personal touches without spending much money, buy fabric and other items from craft shops like Michaels or Joann Fabrics.
7. Look For Chances To Win Prom Dresses
Many towns and charitable groups give away prom dresses to students who need them. Volunteer groups, churches, or schools in the area often put on these events, which give away beautiful dresses for free. One of these events might be easy to find if you look online or ask around at school.
Bonus Tip: National groups like Becca’s Closet give prom clothes to students who need them.
8. Look At Dresses From Last Year
Styles from last season often get huge discounts when stores get new prom dress collections. A dress from last year is not necessarily out of style. Many basic styles are still in style every year.
Tip: Look in the clearance sections of big-box shops and discount sites like Macy’s and JCPenney. If you’re willing to look at old items, you can find great deals.
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