I buy almost all of my formalish dresses at Loehmanns, which is a designer seconds store. I've never spent over $100. I almost bought an Oscars-type dress last time, but couldn't imagine anything I'd need to go to in the near future that was that formal. They always have a lot at the ends of the size range--I have to dig for my average-type size, and still always leave with three dresses or so. I suggest finding your nearest outlet mall, too. Is Jessica McClintock formal enough? Those come in lots of sizes, but may be too bridesmaidy. Not rock bottom prices but still reasonable. Hmm...maybe try some upscale department store websites first to get an idea of sizes and styles, then visit the promising ones? Finally, isn't Neimann Marcus's annul sale coming up soon? That would be ideal.
Ooh, good thought on Neiman Marcus. There appear to be several Loehmann's near me. I think if it looks nice, the price doesn't matter, it just needs to be sufficiently formal and chic-looking.
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I suggest finding your nearest outlet mall, too.
Is Jessica McClintock formal enough? Those come in lots of sizes, but may be too bridesmaidy. Not rock bottom prices but still reasonable.
Hmm...maybe try some upscale department store websites first to get an idea of sizes and styles, then visit the promising ones? Finally, isn't Neimann Marcus's annul sale coming up soon? That would be ideal.
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I may or may not need a new dress for this summer's weddings as well.
I wish I had better advice for Orichalcum. I know where I might suggest here, but no idea for Chicago.