Budget for Prom Night

Before you part with even a penny, figure out what you can expect to pay for prom essentials. It'll help you plan out how much you need to save (or beg your parents for!)

• Prom Gown
• Prom Accessories
• Prom Tickets
• Your Ride
• His Boutonniere
• Hair Styling
• Makeup
• Nails
• Prom Night Photos

PROM GOWN: $99 to $300 and more if you wish.

Prom is a formal event also called a black-tie event. Formal dresses are expensive! Unless you look into discounters or vintage clothing stores, it is very difficult to find a good quality prom dress for less than $100. Don't worry, though -- a great-looking dress can be useful way into your college years, so it'll be money well spent.

PROM ACCESSORIES: $49 to $200 and up.

Iy you are lucky and already own (or can borrow) jewelry, formal shoes, hair pins, and an elegant hand-bag that complements them all, you are off the hook. But if you have to purchase even a few of the accessories, the cost can add up quickly.

PROM TICKETS: $49 to $150

The cost of the prom-dance itself varies from one region of the country to the next. Also depends on where the prom dance is happening -- for instance, a country club might be quite more expensive than a chain hotel. On the other hand, if your prom includes just dancing and no dinner, tickets will be more affordable. But then, of course, you'll have to pay for your own dinner, which can make up the difference.

YOUR RIDE: From almost nothing to $400 and up.

Having a limo with your friends and their dates can be a fabulous (and fun) way to get to prom and back, but with four-hour minimums plus tipping it's also a massive expense. Never the less there are plenty of options, from super cheap to seriously over-the-top limo services. If you don't want to take the limo route, look into renting a party bus or borrowing a really nice car from someone's parents.

HIS BOUTONNIERE: $9 to $30

For sure you are going to receive a magnificent, gorgeous corsage, so you'd better get your date a little lapel flower! Roses are the most popular choice for boutonnieres but there are many other fine options. Carnations are a little less expensive, while orchids can be too expensive. If you're not feeling picky, go simple and save.

HAIR STYLING: $29 to $75 and up.

Cost of hair styling depends on what you get: a simple blowout is less complicated and less pricey than a formal updo. Add in a hair test (so you can see what it'll look like before you commit), and it will cost a little more. What to do? Well, if you're going for a one-shot deal with no trial run, head to your regular stylist who you know won't give you a do that just isn't you. Or if you (or your friend, or your mom, or your sis) has a way with hair, don't be afraid to go with it.

MAKEUP: $29 to $75

A salon treatment the day of the prom is a great way to get pumped up for the big night. There's nothing more glamorous than sitting in a makeup artist's chair under the lights, looking pretty and not lifting a finger. Same goes here about the trial run: You might want to test out different looks and shades a week or two before prom. Speak up if you don't like it -- you're paying big bucks to get it just right. If you plan on doing your own makeup, don't forget to budget for any new beauty device you plan on purchasing.

NAILS: $19 to $50 and up.

While you're out and about, why not head to the salon for a manicure and pedicure? Most offer a discount if you get hands and feet done at the same time. Doing your nails yourself? Make it more fun by teaming up with a friend -- you can paint each other's nails for a neater job than you could manage solo.

PROM NIGHT PHOTOS: $29 to $75

The cost of your prom portraits will depend on how many prints you order. They're usually sold in packages where you can get a combo of 8x10s, 5x7s, and wallet-size pics. Add up how many copies you need beforehand to help you decide which package you want. And make sure to bring along enough money -- photographers usually expect payment up front, and then they'll mail you your pics.