Tiffany Williams had a conversation with her mom about staying on budget this prom season.

Williams, a 17-year-old senior at Christian Life High School in Rockford, is trying to spend less than $200 on her dress and accessories. She spent a little more last year but knows that the economy is dictating how the family spends this year.

“I’m still looking for my dress, and we discussed cutting corners in other ways,” she said.

In a sagging economy, families are sticking to their budgets this season and looking for deals on clothes and accessories. At the same time, business owners are counting on prom as a rite of passage families will still spend money on.

Seno Formal Wear delivered $30 gift cards to local high schools this month as an incentive. Sara Grace Co., a dress boutique, is offering $20 discounts on prom dresses.

Owner Sara Hu Young said shoppers are taking more time before they buy.

“They’re really being extra careful,” she said.

Melissa Yang, a 17-year-old Christian Life junior, already bought her dress and plans to economize on shoes and accessories.

Teens say they’re spending money on dresses but are cutting back on extras, whether it’s a pricey dinner or transportation.

Still, Steve “Jake” Jacob, owner of Fantasy Limousine of Rockton, expects to be booked during prom season, but he has noticed that people aren’t booking as quickly as usual.

“The economy can hurt this industry because it’s based on expendable income, but I anticipate being booked solid by the time prom season is here,” he said.

Becca’s Closet, a national nonprofit group that collects and distributes gently used formal dresses, is open and seeing some activity already, said Barb Berman, an adviser for the Rockford chapter.

The dresses and accessories are free for students, no questions asked.

Melissa Westphal can be reached at (815) 987-1341 or mwestpha@rrstar.com.

How to dress to impress
Print dresses are popular, including animal and paisley prints.

Popular colors this year are citrus tones, all shades of blue, and olive and black and white combinations.

For dress treatments, the lattice back is very popular, as are framed and ruched bodices. Crisscrossed straps on the back of the dress are also in.

Look for such extra embellishments as glitter, beading and sequins on halter necklines and dress straps.

One-shoulder dresses inspired by red-carpet fashions also will be on the racks.

Short dresses are definitely popular, but ball gowns have made a comeback.

For the guys, the devil is in the details. Guys can match their girls’ dresses with colorful vests in the same citrus colors, or other popular hues of purple and blue. Colorful ties and bow ties are also popular.

White jackets are back, as are white jackets trimmed in black, inspired by celebs like Justin Timberlake.

Source: Heidi Frank, Bergner’s; John Justus, Seno Formal Wear