When the words ‘sweet sixteen’ are mentioned, many teenage girls think of MTV’s “My Super Sweet Sixteen” television show. A Sweet Sixteen party is given as a coming of age celebration for girls but the reality is that they aren’t quite as elaborate, formal and large as the MTV show portrays them to be.
If your daughter is having a Sweet Sixteen party and is looking for a dress that costs under $200, she is in luck. In fact, with some research, I found many websites, sources, stores, and ideas on how to save money when purchasing a dress. Keep in mind some of these on-line stores change inventory often. Here are five dresses I found for under $200 through on-line stores:
www.promgirl.com
For $149.00, www.promgirl.com sells a strapless knee-length homecoming dress by Mori Lee. This dress has a strapless empire waist with a gorgeous shirring that overlays the empire bodice. The skirt flares in an A-line and the dress is classy, pretty and becoming. It’s available in sizes 0-28 and lots of colors including, white, sage, burgundy, turquoise, wine and many others. Remember to give yourself plenty of time as some sizes and colors must be specialty ordered 6-8 weeks ahead of time. (Look up ML-735 under the search bar at www.promgirl.com for more details.)
www.quinceanera-boutique.com
Quinceanera-Boutique.com sells many dresses with various price ranges. Under their Angel Collection is a long gown priced at $167.00. The dress comes with a satin shawl and the fabric is comprised of embroidered organza and satin. There is a bow which can be removed if desired. The dress also comes with a white 2 ring hoop with sells for $33.00. While this dress is formal, the price is great – right at $200 for the dress and hoop. It also looks wonderful with gloves which are only $9.50 a pair. Available in pink and large size only (number AN2021).
www.edressmeprom.com
You’ll find a huge selection of dresses on edressmeprom.com. For example, $98.00 buys you a strapless belted dress from Kitty. Although it’s considered a cocktail dress, it is very versatile with a sweetheart neckline. The length falls just above the knees and the dress looks great with black heels. Available in lime, black and magenta with sizes small, medium and large. The style number on this dress is # kittyc3358.
www.edressmeprom.com
Also available from edressprom.com is a simple but eye-catching dress by Mori Lee. For $124.00 you can buy a strapless short dress with a square neckline and pleated bodice. It is a circle skirt and falls just below the knees. It’s available in sizes 2-28 and colors such as champagne, gold, rose and black. For more information, the style number on this dress is #803.
www.newyorkdress.com
This is another great website with plenty of dresses to select by category and/or designer. Under the Sweet 16 category is a beautiful Grecian inspired dress by Dave and Johnny. This dress cost $178.00 and is available in black or ivory in sizes 0-16. It will make the young lady feel like a Grecian goddess with its jewels that line the straps and across the empire waistband. It has a very soft vertical pleating and rests right above the knee. The item number on this dress is 4304.
Other Items for Consideration
Remember, when shopping for a Sweet Sixteen dress, it doesn’t have to be expensive. Department stores like Macy’s and Dillard’s carry appropriate dresses with the most to choose from starting in June.
There are Sweet Sixteen dresses sold on Ebay which can save you a lot of money. The only drawback is in the event the seller does not accept refunds if the dress doesn’t fit.
Another option is yard sales or consignment shops. Here you can find dresses almost like new for very, very little.
Finally, there’s always what I used to do: borrow a dress from an older sister! Or, consider asking a cousin or friend.
Sources: www.promgirl.comwww.newyorkdress.comwww.edressmeprom.comwww.quinceanera-boutique.com
