Prom is a rite of passage. Prom, for many American teenagers, has a prominent place in American popular culture. From movies like Carrie, and Pretty in Pink, to Mean Girls or High School Musical, they have all successfully set the expectations as to what this magical night will have to offer. Prom in these movies represents the end of teenagehood and a celebration of youth. These film’s use of prom to highlight the “pinnacle teen experience” has found itself in the minds of American teenagers alike. Especially teenage girls.
However, prom is expensive.
The average girl spends $900 to $1000 on their prom experience. This includes all expenses, including dress and ticket. Girls also have their hair, makeup, and nails done just for this one night. On average guys only spend $200, including tux, shoes, and ride. It’s not a shock that girls spend more than guys, but why?
Prom dresses will most likely be the most expensive part, you can get simple ones for 90 dollars, but some can go for easily over 500. A very popular prom dress brand, Sherri Hill, her dresses can go over 700 for the beautiful beading and designer gowns. Another popular brand, Windsor’s, dresses can go for just over 100 for a more classic prom dress.
“My dress is 200.” Said senior and future prom attender, Paris Crooks. “My total will probably be 350, not including the ticket.”
“300, easily.” Said senior Emma Jeffries. “100 something for the dress, then hair and nails, probably over 300, without the ticket.”
And then you have nails, hair, and heels. A basic manicure can go for $20 to $50, but most choose a more elaborate gel or acrylic set which can add an extra $50 to your total. For hair, the cost can differ dramatically from a simple blowout to expensive chemical services like highlights. On average, girls spend $40 to $100 on hair. A classic prom shoe usually goes for under $100.
For guys, however, the average cost to rent a suit for prom is $150, not including shoes and a matching tie or bowtie. However, a tailor-made suit can be upwards of $300 depending on the style and designer. A formal prom shoe for guys, similar to girls, can go for under $100.
If you choose to buy your corsage and boutonniere, it comes to about a total of at most $60. However, if you decide to make your own, the cost of flowers can make it closer to $80.
Another factor is transportation. The limo is the quintessential prom night car and can cost between $70 and $250 per hour. Other variables include the amenities on offer. A limo with a mini-bar, high-tech sound system, or mood lighting is going to cost more than a basic model. However, you can find ways to make it cost-effective, like booking with a large group of friends.
Whether it’s important to you or not, Senior prom is the last time to look around at the kids you’ve sat next to for four years and see the last bit of high school put into expensive gowns and nail designs. It’s fun, enjoy it.
