Dress for Less

The holiday season is kicking off and that usually means holiday parties and events for many of you. Many of us, however, don't have the necessary funds to buy the latest on the runway. Here are some ways you can look fabulous without spending too much:

1. Rent the Runway
I heard about this site randomly while watching an episode of Gossip Girl (which I also happen to be hopelessly in love with). In any case, I checked out the site and it seemed like a pretty cool idea. Signing up for an account is free and they have a large selection of designers to choose from. Obviously some dresses are more expensive than others, but there's more than enough choices to browse from. Then you just send the dress back in a pre-paid package and you're done!

It seems like such a waste sometimes to buy an extremely expensive dress and only wear it for one night (i.e. prom). Although I adore my prom dress, I have absolutely no where else to wear it. Certainly can't wear it to school and it's way too formal to wear to dinner. So if you find yourself having to go to a function of some sorts and don't want to buy a new dress, consider renting one instead.


2. Browse through stores like TJ Maxx and Ross
Before college, I never really thought about shopping at places like TJ Maxx and Ross, but times have changed and I've become addicted to finding a bargain. You'd be surprised at the things that you find at these stores and the number of extremely cute dresses, shoes, etc. Lately, I've been finding a ton of super cute dress shoes like these at Ross:



The key is to come often to really dig through the merchandise because sometimes the perfect dress is hidden.

On a side note, I also found the BEST BLOWDRYER IN THE WORLD at Ross! (Technically my aunt found it, but you get the point). It was a black Remington one and if you find one like it, I highly recommend getting it. Not only did this blowdryer give me amazingly soft and straight hair, but it was lightweight and only $10!!

3. Check out the thrift stores and vintage shops.
It's really amazing what you'll find browsing through thrift stores and vintage shops. Many of the clothing is gently used. I especially advise finding costumes at thrift stores because many of my friends have gotten extremely creative costumes at their local thrift store for only $10 or less.

These are also great places to find jewelry and accessories to match your perfect outfit. :)

Find a Salvation Army near you!
Find a Goodwill near you!

4. Ask a friend
This one seems rather intutive but if worst comes to worst call up your best friend with the same dress/shoe size and see what their closet has to offer. Find the perfect outfit and the fit isn't up to par? No problem! Try using safety pins or sewing it a little on the inside. Just make sure that if you decide to sew it, to make the sewing easy to cut through later so as not to damage the dress.