Who cares if you didn’t buy a ticket—or even go to that school? Everyone deserves to go to a prom.

Step 1: Dress to the nines

Wear serious prom clothes—a tux for the guys, a gown for the ladies. You want to look like you’re taking your “special night” very seriously. Don’t forget the corsage and boutonniere!

Step 2: Get a date

Find a partner-in-crime to be your date. More and more kids are showing up stag to the prom, but you’ll blend in better as a couple.

Step 3: Spring for a limo

Spring for a limo. Getting out of it will help you look the part. After all, what kind of crasher bothers to rent a limo?

Step 4: Arrive fashionably late

Arrive about an hour after the prom starts. That’s when the majority of people show up, so you’ll draw less attention.

Step 5: Blend in

Wait for a large group to arrive and go behind them, so it looks like you’re all just one big happy group. Do your best to act as if you are exactly where you’re supposed to be. If you believe it, other people will.

Step 6: Have a story ready

Have a story ready in case you’re stopped at the door—like you left your tickets at home. Pretend you’re going to track down your parents, who are at a restaurant, and have them go home for the tickets. There’s a good chance the door person will tell you to forget it if you seem polite and sincere.

Step 7: Have a Plan B

Have a Plan B. If you can’t get through the front door, look for an unlocked door elsewhere. No doubt someone will prop open a door at some point to sneak a smoke or get some air.

Step 8: Keep conversations short

Mingle, but keep conversations short so you don’t get tripped up.

Step 9: Get out

Don’t overstay your welcome. If you notice that people are beginning to question who you are, beat a path to the door. Besides, everyone knows the best part of prom is the after-party.