Five ways to save big bucks for the prom

By GIANNA ELIZARDO
KNIGHT RIDDER NEWSPAPERS
RAID MOM'S CLOSET
Instead of spending money on new accessories, check your mom's jewelry box for new accessory finds. She may own some cool vintage brooches or necklaces that will spice up your outfit. She also may have a great little clutch or handbag you've never seen. Be sure to ask before you go through her stuff, though!
THROW A GROUP SWAP PARTY
If you want new shoes or jewelry but can't afford it, this is an easy way to change your wardrobe. Plan a day where you and your friends get together and bring old shoes, bracelets, purses, or anything else over to your house. Swap your items for theirs, and also swap ideas so you can each perfect your outfits.
TRIM THE FAT (LITERALLY) FROM YOUR EXPENSES
There's a quick way to save cash and have an awesome body by prom. Cut out school lunches and fast food; instead, bring a healthy sack lunch for school. Watch the number of Cokes you buy each day, too. Each time you're tempted to spend on food, put that money into your prom fund.
ORGANIZE A GARAGE SALE WITH FRIENDS
Gather your friends, collect old things around your house (with your parents' permission, of course) and stick price tags on them. Pick a sunny spring day and sell them on your lawn. At the end of the sale, count the money and split it equally among all the pals who helped out.
DO YOUR OWN HAIR
Remember that a lot of money can be cut from your budget by doing your own hair (and makeup, for that matter). Grab your mom or a hair-savvy friend and go to www.seventeen.com/prom to get cute ideas. Have them practice a few times on your hair before the big night so they can get used to your texture and style.
Then when the big day rolls around, they can easily put your hair in the most fashionable style. The best part? You won't have to pay big bucks at a salon.
Gianna Elizardo is a junior at Coppell High School in Coppell, Texas.