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Prom Dresses for Less

By Casey Lewis, About.com

Prom Dresses for Less: Where To Find Cheap & Chic Dresses:

Why spend a fortune on a dress you'll wear for one night? With a little creativity and a lot of time, you cans snag a fabulous prom dress for less.

Thrift stores:

The only obstacle standing between you and a fabulous prom bargain is a day spent combing through thrift stores and vintage bins.

  • Keep your eyes peeled for timeless shapes, luxurious fabrics, and classic details.

  • Don't focus too much on the fit - a few tweaks from the tailor can change the entire look.

  • Choose "blank canvas" that can be jazzed up with a fistful of layered necklaces, a cluster of brooches, or a colorful obi belt.
Closet:

After you gain approval to peruse, peek through the closets of your sisters, mother, and grandmother.

  • Zoom in on anything that could be chopped, draped, or sewn into a piece of art.

  • Keep in mind that little alterations can make an enormous difference in the vibe of a dress.

  • Sleeves can be removed, the neckline can be modified, a sash can nip the waist, the length can be shortened, and the silhouette can be tailored.
Sewing:

Do you know your way around a sewing machine? The idea of whipping up a prom dress may sound intimidating at first, but keep in mind that most dress patterns are remarkably simple.

  • Select a pattern with minimal seams and simple hemlines.

  • Details like ruffles and trim are much easier than they appear.

  • The most challenging point is often working with flimsy fabrics, but if you stick with taffeta and raw silk -- and stay away from chiffon and satin - you'll find the task far less daunting than, say, prom dress shopping!

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