Prom Costs: How to Plan and Budget for Prom 2024

Prom is back! And now is the perfect time to start planning. However, as it’s known, prom costs can quickly add up and turn into a costly affair. That’s why it’s important to start with a budget so you can plan where you want to spend big and where to be thrifty. Let’s break it down!

Prom Tickets $50 – $120

The cost of tickets is usually determined by the venue and if dinner is catered. Most schools will organize fundraisers to help lower the price of tickets.
Be sure to get yours early, especially if the venue has limited capacity. The last thing you want is to miss out on the whole thing because you waited too long to buy the ticket.

“Promposal” $40 – $330

Gorgeous bouquet of roses, clever poster, or miniature pony parade – there’s no shortage of creative ways to ask someone to prom.
However, if you’d rather focus your spending elsewhere, you can save money by going for DIY options as well. But if creating an Instagram-worthy proposal is what you’re after, definitely put that in your budget.

The Prom Dress $85 – $700

Prom dresses will most likely be the most expensive part of attending the event for you. Even if you plan on making your own dress, fabric for formal gowns isn’t cheap. So, the best way is to plan your look ahead of time so you can shop seasonal sales. Lots of holiday dresses can pull double-duty with a bit of alteration.
Also, where you shop can help make buying a dress more affordable. You can shop at stores in the mall and visit dress boutiques near you, or you can also find a store near you using Amarra’s store locator instead.

Tux Rental $60 – $130

Get dressed to the nines with rental package options. They have sleek, modern looks, traditional black and white, and fun, trendy options. Most outfitters offer discounted prices when you rent your entire outfit, not just the suit jacket and pants.
You can customize everything from neckwear to socks online. Plus, you can save money on returns by doing a little research and choosing a retailer that offers free shipping.

Shoes $30 – $150         

Most teens already own a pair of shoes that are suitable for formal events. A pair of sparkly heels or cute flats in a neutral color can match nearly any dress you choose.
However, if you don’t have a pair that goes with the dress you bought, then make sure it’s in your budget. Designer-brand shoes are obviously super pricey. But you may be able to snag a discounted pair online, and if you’re a savvy shopper, then you can find similar styles with a dramatically lower price tag.

Jewelry and Accessories $45 – $200

Jewelry is all about creating a cohesive look, not necessarily spending big. There’s plenty of cheap jewelry out there that looks stunning and will save you tons of money compared to the real thing. 

What else?Well, you could also do a jewelry swap with friends the next time you get together to talk prom. They may have the exact piece you’re looking for!

The same goes for any purse or clutch you want for the event. If your dress doesn’t have pockets (side note – we LOVE a dress with pockets) then having something to safely carry your cell phone and essentials is a must. 

See what your friends have in their closets. If that’s a bust, a quick trip to your favorite department store should have something cute and functional that matches your outfit.

Corsage or Boutonniere $15 – $60

This floral tradition may be a little dated. But receiving and wearing fresh flowers can make an already magical occasion even more special. Ideally, pick colors that match or complement your outfit.
However, choosing your favorite color may get difficult if you decide to place your order just days before THE night. Florists tend to get busy with the flood of other orders for corsages and boutonnieres, especially if other schools have prom on the same night.
Pro Tip: Get your order in as early as possible!

Hair, Makeup, Nails, and Skincare $50 – $350

What you’re really choosing here is whether to go the DIY route or go to a professional salon. Do you have friends or a family member who does hair, nails or gives a killer makeover?
Maybe you prefer doing it yourself. If not, book that salon appointment ASAP. For most teens, it’s more convenient to shell out the cash and have a professional do the work even though it adds to the total costs.

How Much Does Prom Cost in Total?

 

Costs of attending prom are not the same for every girl as it varies per region. You can spend $150 to $2,000 or more attending the event.
However, on average, a girl will spend about $900 – $1000 on their big night with all the abovementioned costs. That’s why it is important to plan ahead and budget for your big night.
For more tips about prom, read our other blogs. Explore and follow our Instagram for Dress inspirations!