Where to Find Affordable Evening Dresses

Shop the Sales

Going into a high-end boutique or department store can seem discouraging at first, because many dresses will be priced at hundreds of dollars. Keep your eyes open for seasonal sales, though, and you can save a lot of cash. Many pricier stores will drastically cut the price of evening dresses at the end of season, but just because something is considered "last season" in the store doesn't mean it's out of style. Look for evening dresses that aren't too trendy, as these are easier to wear over multiple seasons. For instance, a summer evening dress can easily work for fall if dressed up with a bolero and some jewelry.

Search the Mall

If you're searching for an evening dress for a particularly special occasion, your first instinct may not be to shop the mall. However, as long as you choose an elegant dress that fits well, no one needs to know that you got it on the cheap. Stores like Express, Charlotte Russe and Forever 21 all sell evening wear that can look boutique-worthy if worn properly. It's best to choose classic evening dresses from stores like these, and avoid pieces with too many buttons, zippers or seams. Look for sleek, elegant dresses made of quality materials, and be sure to try them on in the store before purchase. Don't skimp on the shoes, however. It's always easy to spot cheap shoes. Take the money you saved on your fabulous dress and invest it in a well-made pair of heels that will work for both evening and day wear, so you can wear them even after your special event is over.