Palatine students find savings, style at prom dress event

For three days recently, students at Palatine High School had the opportunity to spend their lunch periods browsing and purchasing prom dresses and accessories for $10 at the school's "Say Yes to the Dress" event, which returned after a pandemic hiatus.

The event, which began in 2014, allowed students to select from more than 250 donated dresses - the largest shopping opportunity in "Say Yes" history.

Senior Abigail Zimmerman found her favorite dress immediately.

"I'm excited for this to be back," she said. "The price is a relief as well. I could probably afford a dress with the money I have, but it's always nice to be able to save money."

Sophomore Liliana Cochiaro also appreciated the options and the price point.

"For a dress I am realistically going to wear once, it makes more sense," Cochiaro said. "I feel a lot less guilty than having my parents spend hundreds of dollars."

The economic lesson is one that Palatine High School math teacher Joyce Richardson is happy to see the students learn, becoming smart consumers at a young age.

The event began with a single rack that was barely filled. Now, the Palatine school hosts "Say Yes to the Dress" twice each school year - offering options for both homecoming and prom.