by Kimberley Heit

Created on: May 12, 2008   Last Updated: December 24, 2008

Prom can be an expensive experience; there's the dress, shoes, accessories, limousine hire and numerous other expenses. Retailers are well aware that prom is an emotionally significant event so they take advantage of this in their pricing structure. Therefore, if you want to find a cheap prom dress, the first piece of vital advice is do not go shopping in a specialized prom store. The word prom is like the word wedding, mention it and the price of everything suddenly goes up.

So where should you search for a bargain prom dress?

1. Major department stores-skip the formal wear section of department stores and head to the ordinary women's section. A dress or for that matter top and bottom combination doesn't have to come from a special occasion section to look glamorous on prom night. Search the designer clearance racks and you could find a great dress or piece at more then 50% off the recommended retail price. You will also be more likely to arrive at prom night looking unique because you won't have limited your style to typical prom dress choices.

2. Thrift stores-second hand stores are a great place to find a prom dress. Just think about how many people wear a special occasion dress once then donate it. Why not grab one of these bargains that are still in great condition.

3. Family & Friends closets-look through the clothes of everyone you know (Or at least everyone who will give you their permission to do so). You might be able to scavenge a piece that will work for you. Most dry cleaners offer fairly affordable services when it comes to simple alterations such as changing the length of a hem and a lot of fabrics can be died a color that suits you.

4. eBay-whether your after a discount designer piece or would like to order a classic prom style dress made to measure from China there are some great savings to be found on eBay. Ask lots of questions and make sure the measurements in the listing are correct for your body. If you buy an off the rack piece and it doesn't fit or work for you when it arrives don't despair you have two options. If there is a small issue with fit, have the dress altered. If you really don't like the style relist the item for sale on eBay so that you can recoup some of the money you have spent.

5. Get creative-If you can sew consider making your own dress. Other then the benefit of saving a lot of money you will also have a one off creation. There will be no risk of turning up in the same dress as another girl! If you can't sew, but would like a one off design see if anyone in your family can help you whip up your prom night outfit.

6. Internet retailers-look online for discounts. Online retailers like Bluefly.com stock designer gear that is always less then the recommended retail price. They stock many pieces that are suitable for special occasion wear. When looking at online stores like this look for extra sales and sign up for promotions. Once you have signed up for an online account a lot of these stores will periodically email you special discount codes. You can end up getting an outfit for as little as 20% of the original retail price.
Good luck bargain prom dress hunting!

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