The average Debutante can unknowingly spend up to €1000 on her gown, accessories, beauty treatments, makeup, and hair, not to mention tickets, transport and the night itself. As the debs usually coincides with the start of college, another time of enormous expense, it makes sense to cut costs where possible.

Every girl wants to look their best on such a significant night, and this is where the dress comes into place. Boutiques, particularly in Dublin, price their debs dresses generally in the region of €300-€700. This might not cause some people to even bat an eyelid, but considering this dress will generally be worn only once or twice, ask yourself is it really that economical?

One option is to go vintage, saving yourself some cash and eliminating the risk of turning up in the same gown as a classmate.

Ireland isn’t exactly on the map for its vintage stores, but there truly is some hidden gems nestled around the country;

Dirty Fabulous Vintage was recommended to me by a friend who sourced her own debs dress in the Wicklow Street, D2 shop. Dirty Fabulous stocks gowns from as far back as the 30s and specialises in prom, party and wedding dresses. By making an appointment, the team will give you a personal style consultation to help pick the perfect gown and accessories.

The Goddess Room in Greystones, Co. Wicklow describes itself as a “Pandora’s box of timeless unique pieces”. You can view the timeless and elegant gowns and accessories on their website which date from the 1930s onwards.

Hayworth Vintage is Ireland’s first online retailer of vintage apparel, jewellery and accessories. Hayworth source their pieces from Europe and the States and are willing to help try and source what your heart desires. Their stock is very reasonably priced and they currently have a sale on.

Tres Fab Vintage in Nutgrove Shopping Centre, Rathfarnam is a young and quirky Aladin’s Cave which has simple but eye catching vintage evening gowns. To see their collection, visit their Facebook page.

Shutterbug in Co. Kilkenny has been at the forefront of the Irish vintage scene and is a treasure trove of embellished gowns, evening jackets and delicate accessories.  Sourcing stock in Berlin and New York, owner Blanaid Hennessy is on a mission to change the face of how Irish teenagers shop.