by Meadow Lark

Created on: March 20, 2009   Last Updated: June 26, 2009

If you need cash, and who doesn't these days, it might be time to sell an item that has taken up room in your closet, not only because you looked fabulous in it, but because you remember the original price for your gorgeous prom dress.

Resale shops and thrift stores are doing well during these tough economic times. If you have vowed to never set your foot in a resale shop or consignment store, it might be time to rethink that idea, grab a friend and look up the nearest resale shop in your area. Yahoo.com has a yellow page section that is very user friendly. Normally, you can find a phone number and address on the same site. Be sure to call ahead before venturing out. There are shops that have moved and the internet address has not been updated.

Most consignment stores not only have the cutest names ever - likes Clotheshorse Anonymous, they also have strict guidelines for anyone hoping to sell clothing items. For your first visit, you may want to just browse around and get a feel for the type of clothing they accept. Be sure to check out the price tags on their formal wear.

On your way out, ask the sales person about the store's guidelines. Most resale shops will take your item only if it has been cleaned and in perfect condition. The owners generally want to make an appointment for you to come in and show your items so they can inspect them carefully. If you spilled red sauce or have a tear that cannot be mended, don't waste your time taking your dress to a consignment store; however, if you sew and like to create new designs, you could try using your scissors and a sewing machine to create a lovely new design. There are some people who have been known to make a handsome salary creating wonderful formal wear.

There are also numerous websites where you could share a picture of your dress, a brief description with the measurements and include an asking price. One of the websites that most people check often is www.ebay.com. To get an idea of the asking price, use the advanced feature on ebay and check the completed search box. Be sure to type a short but descriptive title in the search box and hit enter. If you pay close attention to what shows up on your computer screen, and you have time the to scroll through some of the items, you will learn several things. If you know that the dress you have was made by an exclusive designer, your chances for a good selling price are increased. You will learn that there are several other women who are also trying to sell their prom dresses. The competition can be fierce. In order to keep your dress from being overlooked online, you need to take an excellent well lit picture and write a good description of your gown. It is possible that your asking price will be too high to be competitive on ebay. Of course, there are other websites to consider, such as, www.etsy.com and www.craigslist.com.

Reselling your prom dress may not only put a little cash in your pocket, but it is a very earth conscience thing to consider. In fact, if you'd like, you can also add something in your title regarding being green. It's a good reminder for us all.

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