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Bizarre ballgown request

53 replies

Jellaby · 18/04/2014 06:04

Without saying too much, my industry attends a white tie event each year. It is a huge deal, and fashion on the night is extravagant. Last year I wore a beautiful beaded ivory gown with fit and flare shape, that fanned out at my knees into a mass of fluffy fabric with heaps of volume. Very gatsby feel, and I felt incredible. For one reason or another it is kinda the done thing that you only go to this event five times, so your outfit gets more impressive each attendance. I spent a shit ton on last years dress, as my final hurrah.

Only I've now got to go this year too, and don't have the funds to top the dress. Wearing the same dress twice isn't an option here, or else I'd wear my ivory gown again. I'm also not willing to spend a similar amount on clothes as I previously had done. Instead, because I haven't saved for the event this year like is usually do, I need to do this as cheaply as possible.

So, Mumsnet - can you find me the most expensive looking dress for the least amount of money? I'm talking dirt cheap, because I'll only wear it once and it is money I don't want to spend. Must be floor length is my only requirement. I am a size 8 and can probably get away with most things. Darker colours maybe too.

I've found a few on ebay that might work for around £15 so I know it can be done!

This one is currently my fave in burgundy: www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Clearance-Formal-Cocktail-Womens-Prom-Long-Dresses-Ball-Gown-6-8-10-12-14-16-18-/291117571731?pt=UK_Women_s_Dresses&var=&hash=item43c7f59e93

I know this is weird and a bit cryptic, but I know how good the Style board is at helping out with stuff like this. Thank you!

OP posts:
Lj8893 · 18/04/2014 14:56

I don't really understand what your looking for, and what you budget is.

What you describe seems nothing like the (frankly boring) dress you linked us to in your op?

If you perhaps link us to something you have in mind (regardless of price) and then we can look for something similar but within your budget.

KikitheKitKat · 18/04/2014 14:58

Like Boffin said, I was going to suggest dying the ivory dress navy blue or something.

KikitheKitKat · 18/04/2014 14:59

I just looked at the link in the OP and have to say she is SO standing on a box!
(Irrelevant)

tethersend · 18/04/2014 15:02

Are you in London?

If so, get yourself to Fonthill road in Finsbury Park sharpish.

If not, have a look at Light in the Box

MrsCakesPremonition · 18/04/2014 15:06

Hire something.

FamiliesShareGerms · 18/04/2014 15:08

tethersend I so want to go to a ball just so I can buy one of those beautiful dresses- or even just have the excuse to try them on..!

cathyandclaire · 18/04/2014 15:19

I don't think a dress has to be beaded etc to look fabulous, I think this look is amazing and could be done relatively cheaply.. Maybe cutting the skirt off an old ball dress?

Bizarre ballgown request
FairPhyllis · 18/04/2014 15:28

Could you hire something from a costumiers like Angels?

DioneTheDiabolist · 18/04/2014 15:32

Just wear White Tie.

stripeyblacksocks · 18/04/2014 15:42

Fairygothmother sometimes have amazing deals in the clearance section.

Legologgo · 18/04/2014 15:45

if oyu have bloody designer contacts wtf are you looking at ebay for?

Legologgo · 18/04/2014 15:46

let it be said i LOATHE full length evening dresses - always naff

TalkinPeace · 18/04/2014 15:48

surely there is a dress agency near you where you could hire something ?
Budget £100 for one nights hire and you'll get a £1000 dress

TalkinPeace · 18/04/2014 15:51

www.janemorgandresshire.co.uk/index.php
this sort of shop

Legologgo · 18/04/2014 15:51

lol at evening 8

Legologgo · 18/04/2014 15:52

and lOL at 32

Legologgo · 18/04/2014 15:53

[shock at 32]

Legologgo · 18/04/2014 15:53

i meant Shock at 32.. see its affected me man

Legologgo · 18/04/2014 15:53

SHIT I MEANT 31

goes for a lie down

RemusLupinsBiggestGroupie · 18/04/2014 15:54

I'm confused. The dress in the OP looks like a bog-standard boring bridesmaid's dress to me. Need more info about what you want and how much you're actually prepared to pay.

Sadly, I don't know of anywhere that I can buy wonderful Westwood gowns for just tuppence ha'penny (and if I did, I wouldn't share). Grin

LumpySpacePrincessOhMyGlob · 18/04/2014 16:02

Vintage 60s ballgown

LumpySpacePrincessOhMyGlob · 18/04/2014 16:11

This vintage 70s gown is a buy it now £35 on ebay at the mo, simple but elegant. You could do the whole Audrey Hepburn look with long gloves and beads.

Bizarre ballgown request
AmberNectarine · 18/04/2014 16:34

Yes that dress in the first link looks like it came from BHS!

celestialsquirrels · 18/04/2014 16:49

Have you tried the outnet?

FauxFox · 18/04/2014 17:44

too risqué? only £37

Bizarre ballgown request
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