Finding the Perfect Pageant Wardrobe for Very Little Money
by Pageant Committee on 12/15/11
Here are the outfits that you need for the pageant:
- Interview: Dress, skirt/top,
pants/top, NOT a business suit
- Fitness: Capri-length black yoga or workout pants, shirt of your favorite Philly sports team, sneakers and socks
- Talent: anything goes!
- Opening Number: Jeans, shoes of your choice, sparkly top
- Evening Gown: Formal dress
Idea #1: Figure out what you have already that you can use
The good news is that you probably have some of these elements in your closet already. Jeans. Sneakers. Yoga pants. The dress you wore to the Homecoming dance. The outfit you wore to church. Your bat mitzvah dress. Your Flyers jersey. You have it; you love it; wear it onstage!
Idea #2: Borrow from friends and family
If you ask nicely, your sister might let you use her earrings and your best friend might have a costume she wore in her dance recital you can use. Think about who you know that might be willing to loan you a dress or a top. Make sure you have their items cleaned and returned in good condition after the pageant and don’t forget a thank you note!
Idea #3: Secondhand Deals
Visit www.pageantresale.com. We’d be lost without it!
Also, try ebay and local consignment shops. You can find some great deals on everything from gowns to jewelry.
Idea #4: Shop the Post-Holiday Season Sales
All of the sparkle goes on sale January 1. Ring in the New Year at the clearance racks and you might find just what you are looking for at a great discount. I won Talent a dozen times during my competition days in a gown I found for $20 on the clearance rack. I wish you the same luck!
Idea #5: Get Creative
Do you love design? Why not make your own top/earrings/bracelet/gown? If you have great vision and sewing skills, you could make something unique and fantastic. Miss Philadelphia 2009 made her own gown and it was amazing!
You could also take something basic and add rhinestones or beading, change the sleeves, and re-create something.
Idea #6: Ask for a Donation
Your favorite boutique or dress shop would be willing to give you a dress or an outfit for the pageant. We can acknowledge sponsors in the Program Book and on Facebook, so if anyone offers you sponsorship, let us know so we can thank them as well!
Idea#7: Have it made for you
When I needed a talent costume, I found the perfect fabric in a discount fabric store, the pattern for the costume at my local sewing and craft shop, and I took it to the lady who made all of the costumes for our high school musicals. Not only did she create a gorgeous costume, but she was also very supportive and encouraging! Maybe there’s a “costume lady” in your town. How to find one? They can usually be found lurking backstage at your local high school or community theater, safety pins in hand. Just be sure to check out his/her previous work and agree on all terms (payment, deadlines, etc.) before you begin. Also, don’t forget a thank you note!
