DULUTH, Ga. -- Gowns, gowns, and more gowns are arriving at Duluth High School for a big swap and sale on April 16.
"We'll accept pageant dresses, prom dresses, evening gowns, formal wear, cocktail dresses and summer dresses," said organizer and PTSA co-president Dianne Ogden.
The sale began two years ago as a fundraiser for the Miss Duluth Scholarship pageant and has grown into a popular way for some girls to make money from their unwanted formal wear and for others to score big bargains.
"I was able to find a $600 dress and I got it for $90," one buyer said.
Registered sellers name their selling price and can make any deal they want.
Devin Thompson found a flexible seller at last year's sale.
"They they told us we had to buy it for $300, but then we told them we couldn't afford it so they let us rent it for only $75," she said.
Twenty percent of the selling price goes to the PTSA. To sign up as a seller, email dressswapnsale@yahoo.com.
The Fulton County Housing Authority is also holding a prom dress event on April 9, when it will give away gently used dresses, accessories and tuxedos to needy high school seniors.
For those who would like to make a donation, formal wear and accessories can be dropped off at 4273 Wendell Drive, Atlanta, GA 30336. Drop-off hours are Monday - Friday from 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. until April 1. The giveaway will be held at the same location.
J.C Penney stores are also offering a 20 percent discount on Prom dresses when customers donate a gently used dress through April 1. The dresses will also be given to needy students.
The quality and prices at gently used formalwear events can vary widely, so shop carefully and shop around.