Best Formal Wear on a Budget: Reader Advice

March 13, 2008 11:00 PM

newport_news_formal_dress_2
Okay, formal wear is something most of us don’t face too often. But at some point, there’s a wedding, a prom, a gala (if you’re lucky!) that requires you pick up something formal and fabulous—not such a bad thing, really, except finding something beautiful AND budget-friendly ain’t easy. One option we like? Newport News has some really sophisticated evening dresses for incredibly reasonable prices (like the one pictured above, for $49). But you tell us—where do you go for an evening-appropriate ensemble without taking out a second mortgage?

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March 14, 2008 fashionvictim wrote:
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If you are a plus-sized diva, there are two sites to check out for formal wear:  zaftique.com and igigi.com.  They both have reasonable prices for dresses and gowns and the styles are up to date!  I have a military ball coming this September, and I’m already shopping for it.

March 14, 2008 eulalia wrote:
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My favorite formals have come from a Dillard’s outlet not too far from me. Outlets rock!

March 17, 2008 CaitlinV wrote:
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I’ve found some gorgeous things at vintage and consignment stores - these are the type of pieces people get rid of so they generally look less “tired” than other second-hand clothing.
I’ve also got some dresses from eBay: items in brands and sizes I knew would fit, meaning a higher chance of the item fitting.
I’ve also had luck at Macy’s without breaking the bank, Filene’s Basement, TJ Maxx and Marshalls.

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