Buying a cocktail dress can be difficult because the perfect balance between elegant and overdone is a narrow runway. A dress that looks fabulous on the hanger may not fit your style once it gets a little *hangry* for attention. Prices can also range from budget-friendly to “that’ll cost a pretty penny,” often without obvious differences in quality. Then there is the question of sizing, color, length, fabric, and whether the dress can survive a night of dancing without becoming a fashion *flop*. Fortunately, Reading shoppers have plenty of places to browse before making a style statement and raising a glass to a great find.
*Prices below are approximate averages for a typical cocktail-dress selection and can change with sales, designer labels, season, and availability. Several options are in Wyomissing and the surrounding Reading shopping area.*
- **Boscov’s — Berkshire Mall**
- **Kohl’s — Wyomissing**
- **Target — Wyomissing**
- **T.J. Maxx — Wyomissing area**
- **Marshalls — Wyomissing area**
- **Ross Dress for Less — Reading area**
- **Burlington — Wyomissing area**
- **Gabe’s — Reading area**
- **Windsor — Berkshire Mall area**
- **David’s Bridal — Reading-area location or online selection**
Boscov’s is a strong first stop for cocktail dresses, with options ranging from classic sheath styles to embellished party looks. Its selection can help you *dress to impress* without making your wallet feel overly *pressed*. **Average cocktail-dress price: about $90.** Visit the [Boscov’s website](https://www.boscovs.com/) for current inventory and store information.
Kohl’s typically carries cocktail dresses from brands such as Vera Wang, Lauren Conrad, and Nine West, making it a good place to shop across several price points. With frequent promotions, your dress search may turn into a real *Kohl’s call* bargain. **Average cocktail-dress price: about $55.** Check the [Kohl’s website](https://www.kohls.com/) for the nearest Reading-area location and available styles.
Target’s women’s clothing section often includes simple, modern dresses suitable for semi-formal dinners, receptions, and office parties. It is a convenient place to *target* a stylish look while keeping your budget in the bull’s-eye. **Average cocktail-dress price: about $40.** Browse the [Target website](https://www.target.com/store-locator/find-stores/19610) for local store details and dress options.
T.J. Maxx can be especially worthwhile if you enjoy treasure hunting for designer labels and marked-down occasionwear. The inventory changes frequently, so the selection may be a little *maxxed out* one visit and more limited the next. **Average cocktail-dress price: about $50.** Visit the [T.J. Maxx website](https://tjmaxx.tjx.com/store/index.jsp) to locate the closest store.
Marshalls often offers cocktail dresses from recognizable brands at lower-than-department-store prices. It is a good place to make a *marsh-all* effort for a polished outfit without letting the cost crash the party. **Average cocktail-dress price: about $55.** Use the [Marshalls store locator](https://www.marshalls.com/us/store/stores/storeLocator.jsp) before heading out.
Ross is worth checking for inexpensive dresses in a wide range of colors, cuts, and seasonal styles. Prices may be low enough to make your budget *ross* with relief, although the selection can vary from day to day. **Average cocktail-dress price: about $35.** Find a nearby location through the [Ross website](https://www.rossstores.com/).
Burlington usually carries affordable occasion dresses, including styles with sequins, lace, satin, and other event-ready details. It can be a real *burlington* of savings when you want a glamorous look without a glamorous bill. **Average cocktail-dress price: about $45.** Check the [Burlington store locator](https://www.burlington.com/store-locator) for the nearest shop.
Gabe’s is another discount destination where shoppers may find formal and semi-formal dresses at notably reduced prices. The selection can be unpredictable, but that is part of the *Gabe’s game*: patience may pay off with a closet-worthy catch. **Average cocktail-dress price: about $30.** Visit the [Gabe’s website](https://gabesstores.com/) for locations and store information.
Windsor specializes in trend-forward dresses for parties, weddings, dances, and other dressier occasions. Its selection is ideal when you want to *wind-sor* your way into a sleek, contemporary look. **Average cocktail-dress price: about $75.** Browse current styles and locations on the [Windsor website](https://www.windsorstore.com/pages/store-locator).
Although best known for bridalwear, David’s Bridal also carries cocktail dresses and special-occasion styles for guests, parties, and formal events. It is a useful place to *bridal* your search with dresses that lean more polished and event-ready. **Average cocktail-dress price: about $130.** Confirm local availability through the [David’s Bridal website](https://www.davidsbridal.com/stores).
Before visiting, call ahead or check each store’s website because inventory, locations, and prices can change faster than a *hemline on the move*. For the best odds, shop early, try several silhouettes, and bring the shoes and undergarments you plan to wear. With a little patience, your perfect cocktail dress may be just one fitting-room *toast* away.