It will be a night in “Hollywood” next Saturday for hundreds of teens at Austin High School.

Preparations are underway for the AHS Prom. More than 30 juniors will be decorating Riverside Arena in a “Hollywood” theme. There will be a post-prom party at Echo Lanes in addition to the traditional pre-prom dinner many couples have.

Although the prom itself is inexpensive at $15 per person, and the post-prom party has only a $5 fee, the costs associated with prom can be staggering for some cash-strapped families. A dress can cost upward of $200, in addition to shoes, accessories, hair-styling and pre-prom activities. A tuxedo and shoes rental, boutonniere and corsage can add up to more than some parents can afford.

Prom advisor Dena Jacobson said she has noticed juniors often borrow dresses, but seniors are more likely to buy new.

“I think the juniors tend to do more sharing,” she said.

Twice is Nice, a consignment store in Austin, has been promoting its prom dress selection in recent weeks.

“We have a pretty good variety,” owner Sandy Bell said. “They’re in really good shape.” The store also stocks shoes, clutches and jewelry.

Bell said she is picky about what dresses they will take — no stains or tears. She has noticed that long, beaded dresses seem to be in style this season.

Twice is Nice has seen an upswing this year in prom dress sales, with families coming in from Austin and the surrounding area in search of something more affordable and unique.

“You can pick up a $400 dress for $50 to $100,” Bell said. “It’s good for the parents — not everyone can afford it. We had a lot of people who normally couldn’t pay for prom.”

Store employee Linda Steinberg pointed out on Friday a beaded white tulle dress for $100 that originally cost $400. A slinky, apricot beaded number was priced at $60 — originally $300 — and a navy halter also retailed at $60.

“The girls aren’t going to buy them if they’re not in perfect shape,” Steinberg explained.

“It’s been a really successful year for prom dresses,” she said. “We had a couple of happy dads in here.”

The AHS Prom Grand March begins at 6:30 p.m. Saturday; the entry fee is $2. The prom ends at 11:30 p.m., followed by the after-prom party at Echo Lanes.