How to dress for prom: 9 complete looks for $500 or less

How to dress for prom: 9 complete looks for $500 or less
Editor: Randi Bergman. Stylist: Eliza Grossman. Photographer: Carlo Mendoza. Hair and Makeup: Margot Keith. Model: Enry, Plutino Group.
How to dress for prom: 9 complete looks for $500 or less

Editor: Randi Bergman. Stylist: Eliza Grossman. Photographer: Carlo Mendoza. Hair and Makeup: Margot Keith. Model: Enry, Plutino Group.

How to dress for prom, the budget-friendly way »

One could argue that a prom dress is one of the most important dresses that you’ll buy in your life. At least that’s how it feels when the event is approaching and you have no idea what to wear.

To help out, we’re throwing back to our days of FASHION18 (our old teen mag!) and we’re teaching you how to dress for prom for less with 9 super stylish looks for $500 or less (some are even way less!). And while the dress may be the number one priority on your mind, we’ve rounded these looks out with cute accessories (cat ears, anyone?) and heels that will have you dancing all night long.

Not only will these prom dresses turn heads; they are pieces that will stand the test of time in your closet. If you’re headed to a wedding, garden party, or any formal event, these fancy frocks will transition effortlessly to any event that life may throw at you.

Our tips for how to dress for prom all revolve around having fun with your looks while staying on trend. Floral prints keep popping up on the runways so we’ve found blooming frocks from Topshop and Winners that are, well, winners. And if you want to go black, H&M has you covered with a tasseled The Great Gatsby inspired gown (maybe your English teacher will finally believe you read the book) or a Melanie Lyne high-necked airy dress that leaves a whole lot of room for a shiny arm party.

And it really is all about the accessories that can take a prom dress to the next level. Dannijo inspired statement necklaces and Lucite box clutches with statement black and white stripes peeking through, will polish a look off and make you appear like you have it all together.

The countdown is on to prom so get your look together with help from our prom dress guide! Make this look one you won’t regret in five years.

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