any advice for me?

[sept07bride]

I went and tried on a few dresses yesterday and found one that I love. I know it's the one that I want to wear. Problem is, our budget is very very small. It's $650 and there is no way we can afford it. So my question is- does anyone know any websites that sell dresses a lot cheaper? Also, I forgot to ask the people at the bridal shop, generally how much of a discount do you get if you buy it off the rack? Thanks so much for any help! BTW, here's a link the the dress....
http://bridesave.com/search/index.cfm?action=details&product_id=21693

[KatylovesNick]

That dress is very pretty.. Perhaps get the dress without the color in it generally dresses with color are a bit more expensive, the color could easily be added by a ribbon that would look just as stunning. if that is not the case, most places would allow you to buy off the rack.. Another option which SOMETIMES is cheaper is taking it to a dress maker who can recreate the dress almost perfectly... I remember finding a dress for $1000 that I LOVED. That taught me to not try on dresses that I couldn't afford. hahaha
But it is a very gorgeous dress!

[sillybride]

Check to find out when they have their close out sales. You can get big discounts that way. Also, if you know who the designer is or the dress number, you maybe able to find it on ebay.

[sept07bride]

Thanks for the responses. I was planning on getting a plain dress and adding color, but I really want this one. I really like everything about it. I was thinking about taking pics of it to a seamstress. I guess it doesn't hurt to find out how much they'd make it for.
I have checked ebay and plan on continuing to check it everyday. :p I'm pretty desperate for it. What time of the year do stores usually have big sales? I read online that dresses get discontinued in aug/sept and march/april so I'm hoping they'll discontinue mine so I can get it cheaper. I guess it ***e out fall '05, so does anyone know how long dresses usually are sold for before discontinuing?
Sorry for the questions and rambling, but I really do appreciate the advice.

[sillybride]

Ask away and your not rambling. I think they go on sale around May of each year. Taking the dress to a seamstress is a good idea. Have you checked with other stores to see if they carry it. Maybe they might give you a discount to keep you from going to the competition.

[sept07bride]

I did check one other store. I'm planning on looking at another place (where we're going to rent the tuxes), but that's all we have for stores around here.
I think I'm going to take my mom with me and see what she can do. She's really good at bargaining with people (and I'm a push over). Maybe I can get a decent price if I get the one off the rack, which fit really good.

[KatylovesNick]

MOms are good at that aren't they? Good luck, I know you will find the dress of your dreams

[k.vanitveltbcfa]

Have you ever checked GroupUSA? It's a formal wear/wedding dress central. They have gorgeous dresses for affordable prices - usually around $300. And to be honest, I've seen them carry dresses VERY similar to the one you pictured up there! I know this because I work in the same mall as one GroupUSA location and I often oggle their merchandise (lol). It's also helpful knowing an employee since they may share their 35% discount (winkwink). :)

[sept07bride]

Hey all, thanks for your responses. I got a dress yesterday! Not the one that I was in love with, but I do really like this one. I'm going to go start a new thread about it.

[KatylovesNick]

Can't wait to see it!!

[sept07bride]

Okay, I'm just going to brag about it here. My computer is stupid and it won't let me start a new thread
So....my mom and I went to shopping so I could show her the dress. I tried it on and asked a sales lady if they give discounts for buying off the rack. She's said no, they only sell discontinued ones off the rack. Ummm, discontinued ones? In the basement? That was new information to me. I guess they don't like the mention that they have cheap dresses in the basement.
Long story short.... I found a dress that I really love for $73!!!! Isn't that crazy? And it only needs to be hemmed, it fits perfect! I'm trying to find a picture of it, but I'm having trouble since it's discontinued. But it's a strapless Eden Bridals. And my mom bought it for me since it was so cheap. So I'm really happy. I still prefer the one I wanted originally, but saving all that money is definately worth it. My FH is very pleased with me, he said he's proud to be marrying such a cheapskate. :p

[KatylovesNick]

awww, what a deal! Good job. Can't wait to see what it looks like. Isn't it great finding a dress and getting it as a bargain! Congrats!

[liarliarz2000]

That is so great that you found a dress at such a great price. I looked at Eden Bridals and the have some gorgeous dresses. Congratulations. Can't wait to see pics.

[shawnab]

Hi I'm not sure if you have ever heard of the website called "House of Brides" Well they have 1000's etc... of gowns for everyone at 1/2 price. I posted a dress from there wedsite, to give you an idea of how cheap they really are. Oh, the dress I have uploaded was $623.00 & now on there site it's $399.00
http://www.houseofbrides.com/import/allimages/fy2006_45108_tn.jpg

http://www.houseofbrides.com/skin1/images/logsp_b.gif

[calico4sr]

http://www.gianinar.com/
these gowns range from 49.99-79.99 plus shipping and handling. hope this helps. these gowns are made in china and will arrive in about 45 days. best wishes and good luck. the gowns are made per your measurements so i would go to a bridal seamstress to be fitted, then order a gown.

[KatylovesNick]

Wow, what a great deal for a dress. I paid about $399 for mine and was excited that it was so cheap. haha

[sept07bride]

Yeh, I considered buying one online, but i really wanted to be able to try it on first. So I was really happy to find one so cheap in the store.
And Katy, I think $399 still is a great price! All the dresses I looked at ran from $600-$900.

[KatylovesNick]

Yea, I was pretty pleased!

[PrincessLaura]

Mine was $299, at Davids, and I dont need any alterations! It was a glove!

[KatylovesNick]

Love it when that happens!!! "Like a glove"

[PrincessLaura]

Exactly! My FMIL almost cried, and Gracie (Future Step Daughter) said, Laura, your look pretty!

[KatylovesNick]

awww, my mom and I were so teary eyed when we saw it. Another girl was next to me and was like oh man, I want that one.. hahaha I just smiled thinking, ITS MINE! :)
So cute, your stepdaughter sounds adorable.