One of the most anticipated events at the school, Prom, is just around the corner. For most students, it’s a chance to dress up, take pictures, and enjoy the night with friends. However, a lot more goes into prom than simply the attendance. Dresses, suits, accessories, and more all contribute to the overall cost, and both men and women often spend hundreds of dollars for this singular night.
While the types of purchases may differ, the overall financial commitment of prom is similar for both men and women. According to a poll of 50 students, the average prom spending at the School was estimated at about $200, with the highest amount at $1100 and the lowest at $0. This wide range of student spending highlights that prom can be both expensive and affordable.
For women, the highest cost is usually the dress. Prom dresses can range from budget-friendly options under $100 to more expensive designs costing $300 or more. Beyond the dress, many students also budget for additional services and accessories. Nails, hair styling, jewelry, and makeup are common components of prom preparation. For some students, prom is their first formal event, which means they need to invest in basic items like shoes, which can cost $50 to $100 for a standard pair. Junior Dakota Marble, who has spent around $488 on prom, explained that prom shopping is “definitely overpriced” and noted that at “so many of these prom places, you can only return for store credit, and you just end up losing money.” Situations like this can make the financial commitment of buying a prom dress feel even greater, especially since students may only wear the dress once.
Although women may appear to dress more elaborately than men at prom, the total cost of preparation for men is often comparable. Many students choose to rent a suit or tuxedo, which typically costs between $150 and $300. These rentals usually include the jacket, pants, shirt, and sometimes additional items such as a vest or tie. Many opt for rentals because buying a suit can be much more expensive. Average suits range from $300 to $600, while higher-quality ones tend to cost at $1000 or more. In addition to suits, men often purchase ties, shoes, and boutonnieres. While these items may seem small individually, they still contribute to the total cost of preparation for the night. Other expenses, such as the tickets, transportation, and professional photos, are shared by everyone attending, regardless of gender.