I have to admit, I wasn’t really looking forward to dress shopping when I got engaged.  Why? Because I have expensive taste!  I like things BECAUSE not everyone likes them.  I usually try to fight the hottest trends or at least not embrace them fully… Although, my husband would disagree with that statement and point his finger at my closet!  The point is, I’ve always been drawn to classic and romantic pieces.  So when it came to the difficult task of finding a dress that was unique, beautiful and within budget, I thought I was a goner.  To my surprise, I found MY dress the first day I started looking.  It was the only dress in the store that I genuinely loved and it was perfect for me.  So here are some ideas for looking outside-the-box when searching for your perfect dress at a great price!

Issa Silk-Chiffon Gown, $800, available at Net-A-Porter; Doo.Ri Belted Ruched Dress, $895, available at La Garçonne; Rebecca Taylor Seltzer Micro Pleat Gown, $850, available this spring atShopbop; Thakoon Strapless Draped Gown, $1350, available at La Garçonne

Ann Taylor, Strapless Tiered Gown, $495, available at Ann Taylor; Apart Infinity Goddess Gown, $378, available at Apart; J. Crew Washed Crepe Aveline Gown, $750, available at J. Crew; BCBG Max Azria Floral-Print Gown, $398, available at BCBG Max Azria.