Prom Dresses Budget Shopping Tips
Prom dresses have become as much of a status symbol among today’s youth as cars were in generations before. The prom dresses have become more and more elaborate and as their designs escalate so do their price tags. It’s often quite difficult to tell your daughter that you can’t buy the designer prom dress that many of her friends and rivals will be wearing but there are things you can do to provide a prom dress that will still turn heads and make it a night to remember for your daughter and her date.
If you’re on a budget, it pays to do your research before your hit the stores. Here are our top tips for thrifty prom shopping.
Budgeting for Prom Dresses
A prom dress alone can cost anywhere from $100 to $300 or more, depending on the style of dress and designer. Proms are formal, black-tie events. Formal dresses can be expensive so it’s a good idea to shop around early at various stores or even shop online for the best price on prom dresses.
Shop the Off-season
Pick up a summer style in the fall. Go for something basic like a black cocktail dress or a simple satin sheath so as not to risk looking ’so last year.’ Then stash it away so you don’t catch a glimpse every time you peer in your closet. Bring it out closer to prom time and it’ll feel brand-new.
Take advantage of sales and discount retailers
Don’t forget the sale rounders and discount bins at your favorite dress boutiques and retail stores. Remember, all the holiday formal wear that filled the stores in December is on clearance come March.
Go Metallic
Can’t find the perfect color peep-toe to match a coral gown? Don’t stress. Metallic shoes can be the perfect pair for almost any hue. Check out SteveMadden.com, AldoShoes.com, and NinaShoes.com for everything from sequined flats to glittered stiletto styles at awesome prices.
Buying discounted clothes is a great way to save, since you need to buy some clothes one way or another. Though many people, myself included, try to avoid buying clothes we don’t need, sometimes a new job or just boredom with your own wardrobe will prompt you to go clothes shopping. Most clothes in department stores are sold at a significant markup, which means that if you pay attention and wait for a sale or a clearance you can get discounted clothes and pay ½ as much as you would if you were to buy the clothes at their retail prices.
Sizing and design can also be iffy in lower priced clothing. Well known companies usually have a better grip on fit and construction than unknown novelty companies, so you may want to explore off-price retailers.
