It’s that time of year again. Time for elaborate proposals, sparkling dresses, tall shoes, late hair appointments, corny pictures and lots of crying. Time for the dance that creates and ends relationships. The dance that is as exciting as prom but doesn’t cause half the stress. Homecoming.

Homecoming is the least stressful high school dance. At least, it’s supposed to be. A department store dress, dollar store makeup and pictures in front of your best friend’s fireplace. The most stressful aspect is supposed to be what diner you’re going to after.

But this year I’ve noticed an increase in time, energy and money people are pouring into this dance. After talking to a junior I was surprised to find out that $150 is cheap for a homecoming dress. And on top of that girls are getting their nails, hair and makeup done.

Say you’re a single girl, your ticket costs $35. Plus a $55 Sephora makeup consultation, add the $150 dress from the Right Fit, along with the $30 nails and a $70 hair style (that will fall out throughout the night). That’s $337. Money that you, or your parents, could save for something better. Save for senior trip or a car or college. When I was a sophomore I spent $20 on my dress, $8 on my makeup and did my own hair. The meal I got after the dance was the most expensive thing I bought.

I understand that homecoming for freshman and sophomores is a little bit more serious because you don’t have a prom to look forward to. And for seniors, it’s hard not to splurge on your last homecoming. Especially when you or one of your fellow classmates are on the homecoming court. But it doesn’t mean you’re required to spend a fortune.

This isn’t a criticism of the people dropping big money on homecoming. If you’ve got it, spend it how you want! My biggest concern is that girls and boys who don’t have hundreds of dollars to spare are going to feel bad about themselves. To have fun, and look your best, you don’t need to break your bank. Don’t think that just because your friends are buying dresses from fancy boutiques that you can’t still go to Macy’s.

I’m not putting down homecoming. Almost all of my best high school memories are from this annual dance. I’m putting down the idea that everyone needs to spend their college savings on it.

Homecoming is a fun night. It will be the same fun night in a brand new designer dress or a thrifted gown.