Prom dresses need not be expensive to look classy. And, being on a tight budget doesn't mean you should sacrifice quality for the price. Nowadays, ready-to-wear dresses in malls and second-hand stores aren't your only options. Here are some ideas that might help you score a head-turning dress sans the hefty price tag.
1. Shop online. Items sold on the internet are usually cheaper than those in regular boutiques, mainly because of lower overhead expenses in rent, advertising, wage, etc. Just make sure that you know your measurements to find a perfect dress for your body type. Try shopping in eBay, Banana Republic, Dresses, Faviana, and other labels that will suit your budget.
2. Make your own dress. This requires creativity and dress-making skills, but it will definitely show your own style and personality. Try flipping through magazines and surfing online for designs. If you haven't any dress-making skills, why not ask your sister, a friend, or a cousin to help you out? It can also be a way of bonding.
3. Rent a dress. There are many stores that rent clothing, including Prom Dresses. However, ask for their latest ventures. Otherwise you might be wearing the same dress another girl have worn last year!
4. Borrow from a cousin or a friend. A cousin or a friend who went to another high school, that is. Ask them if you could rework the dress, and if they agree, try putting embellishments, lace, ribbons, or anything that would look good on you.
5. Wear vintage. Check the attic and dig up your mom's or grandmother's old wardrobe. There is a big chance that you will find a classic dress that you can rework on to give it a bit of your style. Who knows, you might find a vintage Chanel dress there? You might even find accessories and shoes that will go with your dress.
6. Reconstruct an old cocktail dress or gown. Again, ask the help of a skilled friend if you do not have the necessary skills to do this. Scan magazines or check out the latest Academy Awards for fresh ideas.
7. Buy in advance. You know how airfare hikes during Christmas? Dresses are like that too. When Prom season comes around, dresses are more costly because more girls want new dresses. So when you buy earlier, you might find the perfect dress at a low, low price.
8. Ask for a Prom Dresses on your birthday. Or on Christmas. Ask your parents, your sister, an aunt...the list is endless. This way, you won't even have to spend a cent when the big event comes. Show them the design you want and give them your measurements. If they ask you to come with them while shopping, the better.
