Three Months to Go
Prom Dresses From Overseas Auction Sellers Five Things You Need To Know
Browse online auction sites and you're sure to be amazed by the number of bargain prom dresses being advertised. However many people fail to factor in shipping charges, customs duty and VAT before purchasing a gown and end up with a prom dress which costs more than they expected. In addition to this, buying overseas may make it harder to get a refund if you receive a gown that does not match the description.
The purpose of this article is to highlight some of the things to bear in mind when buying prom dresses from overseas auction site sellers.
1. They may be making money on the shipping charge, not the purchase price
Does the price of the gown seem too good to be true? Many sellers offer a very low price on prom dresses and make their money from charging very high shipping charges. They do this because they know that many consumers will focus on the purchase price, treating the shipping price as an incidental cost. In some evening dress stores cases, by the time you've added on shipping costs, you can end up paying more than three times as much as you expected.
What to do: Many people focus on the bargain purchase price and try to put the postage price out of their mind. When ordering a prom dress from overseas the cost of shipping becomes part of your cost of purchasing the item. Always check the postage price and calculate the total amount that ordering this dress will cost you before making the decision to buy.
2. Overseas Prom Dresses will cost you evening dresses size 16 dresses 30% more than you think
If you're importing a prom dress into the UK from a county outside of Europe you will be charged VAT and Customs Duty by HMRC if the amount you pay (for the item, shipping included) is over ?0. VAT and Customs Duty are calculated based on the shipping and purchase cost. Once added on these taxes will normally increase the price of prom dresses by around 30%. This means if you pay ?0 for the dress and ?0 for delivery the total you will end up paying will not just be ?20, it will be close to ?60.
What to do: Contact HMRC for advice on how to work out the VAT and customs prom dresses attract.
So let's say you receive a gown and wish to return it. What are your options with regards to prom dresses which don't fit or dosn't meet their descriptions?
3. It will cost you money to return the Dress
If the seller agrees to let you return your prom gown then don't forget that you'll be the one who has to pay out for international postage to send it back to them.
What to do: Ensure that you bear this risk in mind when purchasing your gown.
4. You may find black tea length dress UK law unenforceable
What happens if the factory refuses to allow you to return an item? If you were buying from a UK seller you have the options of contacting Trading Standards or taking the seller to small claims court. However, while UK law is enforceable in the UK, you may find it very difficult to enforce if you've bought prom dresses overseas.
What to do: Be aware of the risks involved; the greatest protection you have are therefore the threat of negative feedback or using a protected payment method.
5. Raising a dispute black maternity dress may not be successful.
If worse comes to worst and the seller won't refund your money for a dress which doesn't match the description then you have two options. You can either threaten the seller with negative feedback or (if you've used a secure payment method) you can raise a dispute. However do bear in mind that such disputes are often difficult to settle and it is by no means a guarantee that you will definitely get your money back.
Buying prom dresses overseas from online auction sellers not only has hidden customs and VAT costs, it also has inherent risks. Be aware that buying abroad often means paying high shipping costs, customs duty, VAT and can affect your ability to return an item with which you are not satisfied. With this in mind you will be in a position to make an informed decision about whether the costs and risks involved in buying from an overseas seller make it a good option for you
Prom Checklist Prom Dresses, Beauty Appointments And More
The months and weeks leading up to your prom will consist of planning, trying on various designs of prom dresses, and preparing for your special evening. This prom checklist will help you plan the months ahead so you won't forget the little things.
Four Months 'til Prom
Plan your prom budget by pricing formal dresses, prom accessories, and beauty services such as hair makeup and nails. Start saving money for your prom gown as well as other items you'll need so there will be enough money when you need it.
Three Months to Go
About three months before your prom, start maintaining your nails and hair so they'll be the style and length you want for prom night. You can't grow long hair or nails in a week or two, but you can grow them and start maintaining their beauty over a three-month period. Also, this is the time to buy your prom dress if possible - especially if ordering online. You'll avoid last minute crowds and get the biggest expense out of the way. This also gives added time for alterations if needed.
Start looking for accessories online to go with your prom dress. You might buy these along so you won't have to spend as much money at once. Begin making reservations for your dinner date, and reserve a limousine if you plan to travel in luxury!
If you want to lose a little weight before the prom, now's the time to start. Begin a daily exercise regime and start eating less at each meal. Opt for fruits instead of sweets and cut down on carbs and sugars. But don't lose too much weight if you've already ordered your prom gown!
With Two Months Left....
Get your prom dress alterations if needed. Make appointments for hair, nails and makeup at a hair salon. It might be a good idea to make an appointment for a trial run so you'll know how your hair and makeup will look beforehand. Then you can make any changes to the styling if needed. Buy your prom shoes and have them dyed to match your dress. Select undergarments for your prom dress.
With Four Weeks to Go
Within four weeks, go ahead and purchase your prom tickets. Wear your prom shoes around the house to break them in for more comfort. Also, introduce your date to your parents if they haven't already met him. Drink lots of water to stay hydrated, and treat skin acne to get rid of blemishes.
Three Weeks before Prom
Confirm all appointments to long black maxi dress be sure there are no problems. Try on your prom dress after alterations to be sure it fits properly. Make sure your trial hair appointment goes well before settling on a hairstyle.
Just Two Weeks to Go
With two weeks left, buy your last minute prom items such as pantyhose, camera and film, a handbag and jacket to match your dress, gloves, and other items. Be sure your prom night schedule includes a time of relaxation such as a nice dinner before and a fun time with friends afterwards. Get together some materials and a scrapbook to record all the important moments of your prom.
On Prom Day
When prom day finally arrives, eat a healthy breakfast and lunch. Do something relaxing to soothe those stomach butterflies! Stuff your handbag or purse with touch-up makeup, cash, a camera, identification, etc. Don't wash your hair if you plan to wear it pinned up. Get your hair, nails and makeup done at the beauty parlor (wear a button-up shirt so you won't mess up your hair). Pick up your date's boutonniere (store in refrigerator). Most importantly, get ready for a wonderful time!
Planning ahead months in advance for your prom will help you get through the preparations with minimal stress. You'll enjoy the prom day and night more if you don't wait until the last minute to do everything.
Look around online for prom dresses early so you can find styles you like. Many online prom retailers carry affordable prom dresses by various designers with stunning looks for every figure imaginable. They might also sell homecoming dresses, ball gowns, and all sorts of eveningwear. With so many choices, you can easily find what you need for the prom from your own home computer while saving time and money.
