by Rachael Warham

Created on: May 11, 2008   Last Updated: September 01, 2009

It is most girls' fantasy to look like a million dollars on her prom night. Going from girl to woman. But let's face it, no girl wants to look as though they've just stepped into a bin bag liner, portraying an image of Cinderella at midnight. That said it doesn't necessarily mean you have to turn up kitted out in the newest diamond encrusted Giovanni Versace ball gown worn by Hollywood's biggest bimbo's, leaving your parents eating bread and water for the rest of their days.

Remember, keeping expenses down doesn't necessarily have to mean you look tatty or poor. Accessorising previously worn outfits can work a treat. A sash here and there attached with pins will disguise any previous wear and sequins to add a touch of glamour to the ensemble will add a tasteful wow factor at minimal cost.

If you are on a low budget then charity shops are a perfect option, with many unique items of clothing on show it's not unusual to find yourself taking a beautiful piece away at an astonishingly low price. It could even be a simple plain piece of clothing that you find but with additional accessories it could become a masterpiece.

Personality is key when it comes to choosing an outfit. It's important that whatever you wear does not look like something that would look good on someone else. For instance would Dita Von Teese look as good as she does if she wore clothing similar to Lindsay Lohan? No! Even the thought is ridiculous. So, if you're not particularly sophisticated, maybe a little on the dizzy side then a tight black, low cutting dress is going to look ridiculous, and more importantly make you feel uncomfortable. Essentially without confidence whatever you wear will look out of place.

The same principles should apply to shoes. Always choose the shoes after the main outfit. Obvious as this may sound we've all done this and it's not a good mistake to make on your prom night.

With the outfit sorted, travel is the next important factor.Unoriginal though they are, limos are the fashionable way to travel and add star quality. If it's a necessity then make sure you are with a group of friends to share the bill making it an affordable option. If you want to be a little more on the spontaneous side then dress up the family car and use your father as the chauffeur! Will anyone know the difference?

Finally the cheapest and best way to make sure you have the most amazing night is to not worry and just concentrate on fun. Take the focus off your dress and onto you as the person. If you're trying to impress that one person, then it will be you they're interested in, not what you're wearing.

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