It's a night to remember. Whether you're planning the perfect prom for yourself or for your daughter, a little can go a long way when you're working on a shoestring budget. There are plenty of ways you can cut corners without minimizing the importance of one of the most important nights of a gal's life. Of course, one of the most important elements of prom is the dress. A proper prom dress can set you back hundreds of dollars if you're perusing the racks of high-end department stores. Before you go blowing your budget, why not hit local vintage shops for a real piece of history? You'll be the talk of the dance when you show up in a classic '80s dress that will put today's popular styles to shame. If you're up for an online search of used, not abused, dresses, hit up Craigslist or eBay to see what you can get at a secondhand discount. You should also browse through Web sites that specifically offer prom dresses at lower price points.