How to Find an Affordable Prom Dress

We won't deny that in the weeks and months leading up to it, prom can feel like the most important night of your life. It's more than the last night of the school year to gather with your classmates and dance the night away — it's the last night of the year to show everyone just how amazing you look when you're not wearing a hoodie and jeans to class.

All that said, spending half your savings on the "perfect" dress doesn't make sense for everyone, especially once you factor in shoes, accessories, getting your hair or makeup done, limousines, Uber rides, or any of the other myriad of costs that can add up during prom season. The good news is that all your favorite high street shops actually have a lot of beautiful dress and jumpsuit options that would be perfect for prom.

Ahead, shop 10 charming, prom-approved options that all ring in at under $200.

This gilded T-shirt dress will draw plenty of attention for its foil-like appearance, so lean into the disco vibe with a gold hairpiece and '70s-inspired velvet platforms.

Jumpsuits are easy to transition from casual to formal — it's all about the accessories. Play this one up with a dramatic statement necklace and metallic sandals.

Embrace your inner '90s minimalist teen dream in this plum-colored Topshop dress. Accessorize with a collar or choker necklace and rock an effortlessly sleek low ponytail.

There's something about jacquard that just screams, "I'm here to party!" and this midi length is perfect for dancing. Keep it classic with black suede pointy-toe pumps and a killer high ponytail with plenty of bounce.

Why yes, we are suggesting that you wear an oversized silk T-shirt to prom! We're thinking shiny silver sandals with an almost unreasonably high heel; layers of long, '20s-inspired faux pearls; and a bold lip.

Sweet, feminine, and oh-so-spring-y, this lavender dress from Boohoo is conservative in essence, but the keyhole lends just a hint of allure...