Variety of Styles/Sizes: If you are attending a formal NYE event and are in need of an evening gown, Claudia’s Closet in St. Charles gives extravagant party attendees a vast selection of colorful, sequin adorned and tulle boosting dresses. Sizes vary based on inventory.

Re-wearability: Some of the gowns at Claudia’s will require you to attend another special event; however, at a fraction of the actual retail price, your consignment purchase not only gives you glamor, but is an eco-friendly alternative to buying new. Some samples of what you might find at the store include Cassandra Stone, Jovani and Tony Bowls formal gowns.

One Stop Shop: The store also stocks accessories, shoes and handbags worthy of complimenting a formal gown.

Price Point: $29 - $269

Return Policy: All Sales Final.

Anthropologie, Block 37, 108 N. State St., Chicago

(Anthropolgie also has locations peppered all over the Chicago area including Chicago Avenue, Southport Avenue, Geneva Commons, Oakbrook Center, Woodfield Mall, Old Orchard Mall and Highland Park.)

Variety of Sizes/Styles: Known for depth, texture, bold patterns and unique embroidered garments, Anthropologie’s collection of eclectic designers and assorted dress styles are suitable for shapely and slender women. The pieces are available in all standard European sizes, petites and U.S. sizes zero through 14.

One Stop Shop: Pins, charms, hair accessories and leg ware are just some of the accessories from Anthropolgie. 

Rewearability: Pieces from Anthropologie can be elegantly dressed up or casually dressed down and can even be styled from season to season.

Price Point: From $118

Return Policy: “All Anthropologie merchandise is unconditionally guaranteed,” according to anthropolgie.com. A customer service representative at Anthropologie further related that, “If you would like the amount returned to be refunded to your credit card, customers will need to provide the original sales receipt. Returning items with no receipt? You will receive the item(s) last sale price, which will be issued to you on an Anthropologie gift card.”

Special Occasions on the Avenue, 2 North Batavia Avenue, Batavia

Variety of Styles/Sizes: Designers like Suzi Chin, Adrianna Papell and Cachet line the racks of Special Occasions in west suburban Batavia with vibrant emerald greens and bold plums, detailed beading, long and short hemlines.

Re-wearability: While some dresses are best suited for formal events, Special Occasions does carry options that can be worn for afternoon gathering or paired with a casual shoe for any work wardrobe.

One Stop Shop: Fur shrugs are just one accessory you might find for top-to-bottom styling, others include earrings, bracelets, necklaces, decorative headbands and cocktail rings.

Price Point: $150 - $400

Return Policy: Sale merchandise and formal gowns, final sale. Regular priced merchandise returnable for store credit within seven days of purchase.