By Hannah Ellington, Hunter Haskett and Buzzy Staten, Nighthawk News Magazine
A common scenario for most high school girls: buying a $500 dress you’re only going to wear once with overpriced, uncomfortable stilettos that are taken off as soon as you get to prom. Sure, it may look good for pictures, but one could get an equally elegant dress for a fifth of the price that has been pre-loved and cared for.
This prom season, low-priced options are a strong go-to for many students. Forget the expensive weekend trip to Virginia during the endless hunt for the perfect dress — a quick click online and the dress is delivered to your doorstep. You could even get your prom dress straight off your phone.
Poshmark is the largest social marketplace for fashion online. You can shop on the app or go straight to the website. It’s simple and easy to find what you are looking for, as Poshmark lists hundreds of prom dresses of every color, size and brand. For example, you can find Jovani dresses (originally priced at $500 and up) for $115, and some for as low as $50. If you love the dress but not the price, you are able to bargain with the seller. Who knows, you might just get the dress of your dreams for $100 less than it was listed.
However, with every site you buy from, make sure you are purchasing from a trusted seller. While the app is safe, there is always the possibility of a scam, not to mention the fact that there is a no-return policy on Poshmark. Always look at the measurements before clicking the big blue “Buy Now” button.
If Poshmark doesn’t work for you, there is also the option of Vinted or Depop, which are similar in their layout.
For those who prefer trying on dresses, Something Old Something New is home to a selection of vintage and pre-loved dresses that can be bought or rented. Located in Kill Devil Hills, the eclectic shop also houses plenty of shoes and sparkly jewelry to choose from, all at an affordable price.
If spending a lot of money on prom isn’t in your budget, there are many cost-efficient options — local and at the click of a button — that will leave you looking like a million bucks.
Juniors Hannah Ellington and Hunter Haskett can be reached at ellingtonha1214@daretolearn.org and hasketthu0318@daretolearn.org.
