by Elizabeth Kelly

Created on: May 11, 2008   Last Updated: November 06, 2008

Actress Sharon Stone once shocked the public when she attended the Academy Awards wearing a top from the Gap. The most shocking thing about it was: she looked incredible. Pairing her shirt with a full-length skirt, the actress proved that style is about much more than money.

When you shop for a prom dress this year, keep an open mind and you might find that spending less may just lead to a more unique dress than you ever imagined. Here are ten tips for finding a cheap prom dress that will make you look like a star on your special night.

1) Move to the Back

The trendiest dresses are usually displayed in front windows and in eye-catching prom displays. Guess what? These are usually the most expensive dresses. You might be tempted to wear a dress in a style you've seen on television or in magazines, but think to the future. The trendier a dress is at this moment, the more lame it will look in just a few years. That polyester patchwork prom dress your Mom wore was trendy in its day, too.

The gowns on the sale rack in the back of the prom section may be less popular, but you will be more likely to find a classic style that will still look elegant when you look at your prom photos with your grandchildren. You can save money as well as save your future self from cringing.

2) Stay Simple

Why does the dress have to carry all the bling? The more sequins and frou-frou added to the prom dress, the more dollars are added to its cost. Consider a simple sheath dress in a dramatic color you love, then add an eye-popping accessory to make it special. Remember Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's? A plain black dress can make you look like a princess when you add a tiara and elbow-length gloves.

What about a pretty pink dress paired with a crown of fresh flowers? Or a white gown with a faux fur stole? The possibilities for dramatic accessories are increased when the dress is more basic, and the amount you save can allow you a bigger accessory budget to play with.

3) Split it Up

There's no rule that says your prom dress has to actually be a dress. A fancy top can be paired with a full-length skirt to create an evening look that is glamorous but unique. Remember Sharon Stone's Oscar ensemble? Shop for a long, full skirt in the formal section and you'll pay a fraction of the cost of a whole dress. Pair it with a sparkly halter for a fun and flirty look, or a ruffled silk blouse and a wide patent belt for a sophisticated look worthy of the cover of Vogue.

4) Shop Like a Bride

Bridal

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