Prom industry takes a hit

Nicole McKoy, 17, a junior at Adolfo Camarillo High School, looks for a prom dress during a giveaway at the school. Around 50 dresses were donated for girls whose families can’t afford to buy them a gown. Students have held 10 fundraisers this school year to help keep ticket prices under control.  (Mel Melcon / Los Angeles Times)

Cristina Itzep, 18, of Van Nuys reacts as she tries on prom dresses at Fulton College.  (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)

Nicole McKoy, 17, a junior at Camarillo High School, tries on a prom dress with help from Christine Newman, left, Simone Walsh and Dianne Davis, during a prom dress giveaway at the school. Sisters Newman and Davis are co-owners of Sassy’s Boutique in Camarillo, which donated 38 dresses.  (Mel Melcon / Los Angeles Times)

Adolfo Camarillo High School seniors Ashlee Lopez, 17, left, Clifford Williams, 18, and Chloe Shavers, 18, walk the runway during a prom fashion show held on campus to boost interest in the upcoming event.  (Mel Melcon / Los Angeles Times)

Adolfo Camarillo High School seniors Kati Munoz, 18, and Adam Lind, 18, walk the runway during a prom fashion show held on campus to boost interest in the upcoming event. Prom is the latest institution to feel the pinch of the recession. Students at Camarillo High School have held 10 fundraisers this school year to help keep ticket prices under control.  (Mel Melcon / Los Angeles Times)