No Need to Spend a Fortune on Your Homecoming Dres

Don't miss out on your homecoming dance because you're afraid you won't have enough money to afford a beautiful dress! With a little imagination, some creativity and a bit of patience, you truly can find a gown that's not only suitable for the dance, but one that won't break your budget.

The following are some excellent places to look for both new and used dresses for homecoming – who knows, you may even find a perfect gown for prom while you're at it!

Consignment Shops

Consignment shops and second-hand stores are full of hidden treasures just waiting to be found and given a new life. Most consignment stores will only display dresses and clothing that have been thoroughly cleaned and are in good condition – sometimes you can even brand new dresses with the tags still attached!

Shop Online

Shop online for your homecoming dress first and you may never shop in traditional stores again, since the sheer number of choices available is mind boggling. Look for clearance and discount sales on different types of dresses – not just those intended for homecoming or prom – including ones meant for bridesmaids and those simply marked as cocktail or special occasion dresses.

Shop Out of Town

Forget the local malls and shops! Take a daytrip out of town to browse in all of the places your friends didn't think of – which greatly increases the chances you'll be wearing something no one else has even seen.

The Newspaper

Newspapers and free penny-saver publications routinely have ads from people selling their worn or gently used dresses. While you're running errands, stop in a grocery store and pick up a few newspapers from neighboring towns to give you more resources for finding a dress you'll love.

Word of Mouth

Start asking your friends and teenage family members now to see if they or anyone they know has a dress you could borrow for homecoming night. Don't forget to ask Grandma or Great Aunt Thelma – vintage style dresses are extremely popular today. If they don't want the dress back, you may be able to alter it or give it a quick update by shortening the hemline or removing the sleeves.

Your Own Closet

Many of us have a little black dress or similar wardrobe piece that can be transformed into one suitable for homecoming with a dressy sweater, scarf, or wrap along with heels, and a few pieces of jewelry – turning the most ordinary of dresses into an extra special one.

More than likely, you'll be the only one at the homecoming who also attended your cousin Jill's wedding last October, so why not try to recycle that gorgeous dress into one that's suitable for homecoming? If you or anyone you know are handy with a needle and thread, alter the dress in some way, not only to save money, but also to create a truly unique piece that you know for certain no one else will be wearing at the dance.