How to Buy an Inexpensive Prom Dress On-line

Prom time is coming! If you are a senior in high school, you know prom is coming, but you are so involved with the flurry of meeting graduation requirements, applying for college and planning summer work, that thinking about prom may not be high on your priority list! However, when the day does draw near, you may find the dresses in your local stores to be rather picked over.

Instead of settling for a dress, why not shop on-line and find EXACTLY what you want at a good price? In order to simplify the process, follow the steps below and make this prom a wonderfully memorable experience!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• computer access
• printer for the computer
• credit card access (may need an adult if under 18)
• date of prom
• prom theme

1. Start early. Even on-line dresses sell out, so start at least four weeks in advance. Some things to keep in mind are: (a)Shipping: this can take up to a week to 10 days unless you pay extra to expedite. Look carefully at the cost of shipping; there may not be a big difference between standard and second day air and it could be worth the extra to get your dress here on time. (b)Alterations: build in time to take the dress to an experienced tailor to ensure a perfect fit and length. (c)Accessories: you'll need time to shop for shoes and "bling"!

2. Know the theme. Although any gown will be great for your prom, it's even more fun if it goes with the theme!

3. Choose a trusted store or website. As always when internet shopping, choose a name that you trust. With the myriad of sites selling prom dresses, there is bound to be some unscrupulous people simply wanting to take advantage of you. It doesn't hurt to look at the dresses on many sites to get an idea of what's out there, just use caution and common sense when it come to the purchase.
   
   For less expensive dresses, go to known department store sites such as JC Penney, Sears and Macy's. These all carry a nice selection of dresses. The advantage to these sites is that your local store may be able to order the dress for you and save you the shipping costs by having it delivered to the store. And, if there should be a problem with the dress, returns are simpler. Some stores offer alterations or have a relationship with a local tailor so you can save time and money.

4. 
    
   Know your measurements and compare them to the size chart.

   Find your dress! Web technology has made it easy to see details about the dress you are considering. Use the zoom to see close-ups of necklines and decorations. There is often a selection of colors as well. Pay attention to the size availability. Also, take time to look at the size chart that most stores have. Not all "mediums" are created equal! Know your measurements and compare them to the size chart.

5. Check for matching accessories. Some dress styles have an accessory package which may include a handbag, pieces of jewelry and hair accessories - even shoes -- that are made to coordinate with the dress. Be sure to look. It's simpler to have everything shipped from one place than to have several different packages coming.

6. Ordering your dress. If you're under 18, you'll need a parent or other adult to help with the order. As you go through the ordering process, double check the following: (a) size, (b) color, (c) style or model number (make sure it matches what you are ordering), (d) price (keep in mind that the price will increase with tax and shipping and handling charges), (e) shipping method (f) "ship to" and "bill to" addresses, and (g) expected ship date. Also, confirm the return policy, just in case. If the dress cannot be returned, you may want to purchase elsewhere.
   
   Be sure to print out your order form as well as your receipt even though it will be e-mailed to you. You never know when a computer glitch will occur and you'll want a record of what you were trying to purchase if you have to speak with customer service.

7. Tracking the shipment. Most on-line stores will send an e-mail alerting you that your purchase has shipped. Make note of the tracking number and stay aware of the progress. UPS can be tracked via www.ups.com; Parcel Post is found on www.usps.com.

8. Don't forget to make an appointment with alterations, even if you have to cancel because the dress fits perfectly. It's better to have to call and cancel than to find that your tailor is booked and can't accommodate you!

9. Have fun! By ordering your dress ahead of time, you avoid the last minute stress of having to settle for a style, size or price you don't like. Try on your whole ensemble and feel like Cinderella heading for the ball!

Tips & Warnings

• Before placing your order, make a print-out of the dress you like and see if a local store carries it or can order it for you.
• Consider what kind of lingerie you need. Certain necklines need certain styles of bras; sheer fabrics call for neutral underwear.
• Always confirm that you are dealing with a trustworthy site before providing personal or credit card information.
• Check your school's dress code to confirm that the dress does not violate any policies.

[sonni57]

on 4/24/2009 Thanks for the good info on buying a prom dress online for less.

[goodselfme]

on 4/24/2009 Good tips on buying a budget priced prom dress online. TX