Store

If you're looking for a Vera Wang or Jessica McClintock dress, don't bother. Cicada has a full-time team (and pulls from local designers) that creates everything in the store for brides, bridesmaids and ladies who've got some kind of swanky affair. There's a wide range of exciting, original styles, whether you're a first-timer dressing for your knight on horseback — check out the Maid Marion Renaissance-style number of silk satin chiffon — or going for a more casual look with a two-piece shantung silk ensemble. Lingerie, veils, jewelry, accessories and shoes are also part of the loot here.

Cicada has a reputation for low-key salespeople, so you won't feel pressured into taking a third mortgage out to pay for the dress.

TIP: Get on the mailing list to find out about the big gown sale every December.

By Vanessa McGrady
Special to NWsource