Buying a dress can be difficult because the perfect style has to fit your body, budget, occasion, and personal taste. Sometimes the search feels like trying to squeeze a square neckline into a round closet. You may hem and haw over colors, fabrics, and lengths before finding a dress that feels just right. Then there is the challenge of knowing which stores have everyday outfits, formalwear, or budget-friendly bargains. Fortunately, Topeka has plenty of places where you can make a fashionable entrance without letting your wallet get completely dressed down.
*Price estimates below are approximate averages for women’s dresses and can vary by brand, season, sales, and local inventory.*
## 1. Dillard’s
For polished workwear, cocktail dresses, and special-occasion styles, [Dillard’s](https://www.dillards.com/) at West Ridge Mall is a classic choice. Its selection includes both department-store brands and designer labels, so you can dress for success without having to take a fashion recess. **Estimated average dress price: $110.**
## 2. JCPenney
[JCPenney](https://www.jcpenney.com/) offers a broad mix of casual, professional, plus-size, and occasion dresses. It is a good place to find seasonal promotions, meaning your wardrobe can fit the bill without sending your budget to the cleaners. **Estimated average dress price: $60.**
## 3. Target
At [Target](https://www.target.com/), you can search for affordable dresses from everyday in-house labels and seasonal collections. The store is a bull’s-eye for shoppers who want modern styles, easy basics, and prices that do not target your savings account. **Estimated average dress price: $35.**
## 4. Kohl’s
[Kohl’s](https://www.kohls.com/) carries dresses for work, weekends, weddings, and everything in between. Frequent discounts and rewards can help you save a bundle while still looking buttoned-up, so this stop deserves a place on your shopping collar—er, calendar. **Estimated average dress price: $55.**
## 5. Ross Dress for Less
If bargain hunting is your favorite kind of sport, [Ross Dress for Less](https://www.rossstores.com/) is worth a visit. Inventory changes often, but patient shoppers can rack up impressive finds at sharply reduced prices. **Estimated average dress price: $25.**
## 6. Maurices
[Maurices](https://www.maurices.com/) is known for comfortable, wearable women’s clothing in a wide range of sizes, including casual and occasion dresses. Its selection lets you add a little more—“Maurices” more, if you will—to your closet without making your budget feel stretched. **Estimated average dress price: $60.**
## 7. Old Navy
For casual sundresses, shirt dresses, sweater dresses, and family-event outfits, [Old Navy](https://oldnavy.gap.com/) is a reliable choice. Its relaxed styles make getting dressed smooth sailing, especially when you want something comfortable enough to move, mingle, and make memories. **Estimated average dress price: $40.**
## 8. Burlington
[Burlington](https://www.burlington.com/) is a discount department store where you may find dresses from recognizable brands at lower-than-usual prices. The selection can change from rack to rack, but that is part of the thrill: you might find a dress that is a real bargain coat—without the coat. **Estimated average dress price: $35.**
## 9. T.J. Maxx
[T.J. Maxx](https://tjmaxx.tjx.com/) offers a rotating assortment of designer and contemporary dresses, often at reduced prices. It is a good place to max out your style while keeping your spending from reaching its maximum. **Estimated average dress price: $40.**
## 10. Walmart
For affordable basics, casual dresses, and last-minute event outfits, [Walmart](https://www.walmart.com/) is a practical one-stop shop. You may not have to walk a fashion mile to find something that works, and the low prices can leave room in your budget for shoes, accessories, or a celebratory meal. **Estimated average dress price: $25.**
Whether you need a formal gown, a work-ready wrap dress, or an easy weekend maxi, Topeka has options for nearly every style and budget. Call ahead or check each retailer’s website before heading out, since local inventory and store hours can change faster than a hemline trend. With a little patience, you can find a look that fits the occasion—and make your shopping trip a resounding dress success.