Prom is a day many of us have looked forward to since the first time we saw She's All That, and now it's finally here: the class of '17. Is there anything more exciting than the prospect of celebrating a lifetime of hard work (read: the end of exams) with your BFFs and classmates by dressing up in your most elegant ensemble and dancing the night away? Okay, so it's not for everyone, but if you're going to prom at all, you'll probably want to look your absolute best when you get there.
You've done the prep, got rid of that lurking pimple, created an inspo board on Pinterest and chosen the perfect dress – now all you're missing is the bag to match. It's the little things that tie an outfit together, and overlooking an accessory as essential as a bag could be your downfall, after all, how else will you carry around your emergency flats?
Whether you opt for a crystallized minaudiére to compliment your sparkly earrings, or a bold, resin statement clutch, you're going to want something small enough not to overpower but large enough to fit all your essentials in – bonus points if you can find one with a strap that you can easily sling around your shoulders or loop through your wrist when your date asks you to dance.
With so many styles to choose from, we've done the hard work and pulled together a list of the best bags for prom that won't break the bank – because what's the point in spending an arm and a leg on accessories when you have your college fund to consider!
So check out our selection of clutches and cross-bodies for under $50 to complete your prom night outfit:
