Prom Xchange offers bargains for dance-goers

Since Rick Carney opened Fashion Xchange in Brookfield about two years ago, his inventory of name-brand consignment items has been devoid of prom dresses.

"A lot of people come in and ask if we take prom dresses," Carney said. "The problem is that (prom) is just one event a year, and it's a unique dress. It's difficult to just wear out."

This year, however, Carney has rented enough retail space adjacent to Fashion Xchange to display up to 500 prom dresses that will be sold on consignment.

Fashion Xchange is accepting gently used dresses, and Prom Xchange, as the temporary business is called, will open once there is enough inventory.

"As soon as I get 200 or 250 gowns, we'll open (Prom Xchange) on a selling basis.

"It's a win-win for everybody. The girls who have a dress they wore once have an opportunity to get some money back. It also allows someone else to realize some cost savings," Carney said.

Prom Xchange - conveniently located in a former boutique outfitted with dressing rooms - will be in operation on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays for three or four months.

"With the economy the way it is, I'm cautiously optimistic this is going to be a good thing," Carney said.

Spring is traditionally the busiest time of year for Fashion Xchange. If all goes according to plan, an expansive inventory of prom dresses for as much as 70 percent off the original price will draw even more traffic to the store in coming months.

Just the Facts

WHAT: Prom dresses and accessories will be sold at Prom Xchange, a temporary business endeavor by Fashion Xchange owner Rick Carney. Dresses are being collected at Fashion Xchange.

WHERE: The Plaza, 17115 W. Bluemound Road

WHEN: Prom Xchange will be open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays beginning in late January and continuing through April 22.

CONTACT: (262) 784-2650