by Candice Cain

Created on: May 09, 2008

There are no two ways about it; Prom can be a costly event for everyone involved. Regardless of whether you are a guy or a girl, single or in a relationship, a New Yorker of a Texan, there are a lot of costs that go into prom. After all, this is the last blast of your high school career. It is one of the most important events of your teenage life. Don't put everything off until the last minute. Be prepared for all of the expenses that you are going to encounter.

APPAREL
This shouldn't come as a surprise to anyone. You're not going to go to prom in a T-shirt and jeans. Girls want to look their best in a gown that suits their style and taste. Some might reach for a simple cocktail dress, which costs around $80. Others prefer the slinky evening gowns that one might find a starlet wearing down the red carpet, which places you in the $200 range. Then, of course, you have the girls that have always dreamed of wearing the Cinderella ball gown to their prom, which can set you back upwards of $350. And don't forget about the shoes! If your mother is a famed fashion designer or your father owns a bridal boutique, you've got nothing to worry about. But, if you are like the rest of us, the price tag on one of these dresses is enough to take your breath away.

So, what is a high school girl to do? Save, for starters. As soon as your senior year begging, start setting aside $10 a week or so. Save that birthday money. Baby-sit or get a part-time job. You know what you want, and it's not just going to fall into your lap. Find out the cost and start stockpiling money in a dress fund. You can even see if the store will put the dress on lay-away, so that you can pay a little every month until the dress is completely paid off. Or, even better, hit a thrift shop or consignment store, where you can find some gently used gowns or even some awesome vintage steals. If you are Internet-savvy, head on over to eBay or other auction sites and see if you can find your dress for next-to-nothing.

Guys, you aren't off the hook. You won't be wearing a regular suit to your Prom. You are most likely to visit your local tux shop and rent something there. Chain formalwear companies, such as After Hours, can be found in virtually any city. Or just let your fingers do the walking and find a local tux rental shop in the phone book. A basic tux rental starts at around $60 for everything including the shoes. The more luxurious you go, the higher the rental fee will be. And, do NOT be late returning your

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