An 18-year-old from Newmarket, Suffolk, has called the expenses associated with school proms "extortionate," choosing to skip her own graduation celebration due to financial concerns.
Giselle Bartram explained her decision, noting that while she doesn't regret missing the event, she witnessed firsthand how costs can spiral. Her sister's prom last summer required a £600 investment for attire and preparations.
"I understand why people spend that much money, but nowadays it's a lot," Bartram told BBC Radio Suffolk. "I find it extortionate in my opinion."
Research from debt advice charity Money Wellness, shared exclusively with the BBC, reveals that one in four parents spends between £250 and £500 on prom-related expenses. With approximately 85% of UK secondary schools now hosting these events—a tradition imported from the United States—families face mounting pressure during prom season.
Bartram observed that local businesses, including taxi companies and hair salons, often increase prices around prom time, capitalizing on the demand.
"A big aspect of prom is how big can you go," she said. "With my sister's prom, we had a whole motorbike show up, a fire engine. It is more showing off than the experience—who can do the coolest thing, who can wear the nicest dress. For people who can't afford it, it really does drive people apart."
She added that some friends spent over £1,000 on their proms, hiring luxury cars and purchasing expensive suits and dresses.
Mel Collins, a 35-year-old parent from Lowestoft, Suffolk, has saved £300-£400 for her 16-year-old daughter's potential prom attendance, despite her daughter's current disinterest.
"We already have uniforms to pay for, school trips to pay for, and now at the end of the school year for our 16-year-olds we're having to pay even more money," Collins said. "It's difficult because I'm having to put money aside that I could prioritize in other areas of my bills."
Collins criticized the competitive nature of proms, where students feel pressured to arrive in posh sports cars or wear extravagant outfits, creating financial strain for parents.
"I feel the pressures of prom and having to spend the money is because the schools put it on the parents," she added. "It puts so much pressure on the parents to outdo each other."
Financial expert Sharan Sammi, a money mindset mentor with 19 years of banking experience, offered several cost-saving tips for prom preparations:
- Repurpose existing dresses with accessories like jewelry, tiaras, or handbags
- Borrow outfits from female relatives
- Explore budget-friendly websites like Shein and Temu for affordable options
- Consider DIY beauty treatments or seek services from training salons where students practice styles at reduced rates
As prom season approaches, the debate continues over whether these celebrations have become more about financial display than meaningful milestones, particularly amid ongoing cost-of-living challenges.