Fashion Mode

A boutique shop is one that specialises in elite fashion - but you don't have to be elite to shop at one. Boutique dress shops have become completely affordable for the average girl looking for a nice dress for that special date or the upcoming office party. Beautiful dresses for a price that the shop girl can afford; that's what the boutique has become all about.

Find Your Shop

Every boutique specialises in a unique style, and if you find one that suits you down to the ground, it's practically a guarantee that they'll always have the perfect dress for you hanging on the rack. Look for boutique dress shops that match your sense of style and whose clothes seem to be consistently cut for your figure.

If that shop's dresses are built for girls with a small bust while you're filling out a DD bra, you're never going to find anything that suits you there - and the frustration of staring at all the beautiful clothes that are cut for girls of a different figure will drive you mad. There are boutique dress shops that cater to every shape and size of girl, though, so don't be discouraged - just keep your eyes peeled for your shop.

Check for Quality

Just like any other industry, boutique shops have good and bad apples in the mix. Some will sell high-quality goods but jack the prices so high your head spins just looking at the tag; others will try to pass off cheap fabrics and poor quality as worthwhile. Make sure the quality matches the tag - and that both are what you're looking for.

Things to look out for: turn the clothes inside out to see the quality of the stitching. If it's already pulling loose in places, it's not well made. Double check to be sure the buttons line up properly and the zipper is attached securely; all of these should alert you to a low-quality shop.

Stay in Budget

Boutique dress shops are the number one place for even the most sensible girl to lose her head and whip out her wallet when she knows full well she can't afford the gorgeous frock she just tried on "just for fun."Stick to trying on clothes that fit the price tag you planned for; trying on dresses you can't possibly have will only make you unhappy.

Unless, of course, you've got a birthday or a holiday coming up, and your boyfriend is good at taking suggestions. If that's the case, try it on, be thrilled, and have the sales clerk hold it under his name.

Happy Shopping

Boutique dress shops are one of the best places to spend a weekend afternoon, especially if you've got a little money to burn and a place to wear a pretty new dress. Remember: suit yourself, check for quality, and don't go for broke.