The Goodwill Glitter Sale has sparkling holiday fashion deals Nov. 15 and 16 in the International District

The annual Goodwill Glitter Sale is always a bargain-busting good time, and a great opportunity for cash-strapped shoppers to get all gussied up for holiday parties. This year's sale will take place Nov. 15 and 16 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., at Seattle Goodwill, 1400 S. Lane St.

All year long, Goodwill collects formal wear and vintage clothing and accessories, and saves them for this special sale. You'll find everything you need for the season's soirees -- glamorous gowns and classic cocktail dresses, loads of little black dresses, rhinestone jewelry, silver and gold shoes, beaded purses, leather jackets and skirts, and men's formal wear.

There are literally tons of clothing at the Glitter Sale. Last year, Goodwill sold more than 10,000 items. What will you pay? Dresses and jackets are $9.99 and up, shoes are $3.99 and up, and jewelry starts at $1.99. A full outfit from top to bottom -- dress, shoes, jewelry and handbag -- will cost you less than $50.

This year, there are some stellar designer duds to choose from, including clothing and accessories by Jimmy Choo, Chloe, St. John, Dolce & Gabbana and Vera Wang. Designer and vintage clothing will be located in separate areas, and prices will be slightly higher in those two categories.

Vintage junkies will be delighted by special finds this year, including a diaphanous black beaded chemise dress from the 1920s; a backless cream-colored satin dress a la Greta Garbo; a pristine empire-waist sheath in sunny yellow (think 1960s prom dress), plus vintage jewelry, hats, shoes and purses.

Goodwill public relations director Betsey McFeely offers this advice for Glitter shoppers: "Keep an open mind. You'll never know what you'll find." She's right. Don't just head for the basic black unless your heart is set on it. This is your chance to try a new style or color without feeling like you're making a fashion investment.

During a sneak preview, I spied numerous gorgeous gowns in teal and other unexpected colors. And even if you're not doing the party circuit, it's a great place to pick up shoes. Dress up those jeans with a pair of bejeweled heels, gold peep toes or sequined sandals.

Diehard shoppers line up as early as 4:30 a.m. for the two-day event, so it's a good idea to get there early. Last year, 300 shoppers were in line before the doors opened. The sheer volume of clothes, shoes and accessories can be overwhelming; here are some tips for scoring pieces that will work for you.

1. Make a list of the things you are looking for, such as a pair of shoes or an evening bag for an outfit you already have.

2. Arrive early. Wear a warm wrap that can be tucked into your purse. You don't want to keep taking a coat on and off.

3. Need jewelry? It goes fast. Head there first and take a number.

4. If you're looking for a whole outfit, try on clothing first, then hit the shoes, handbags, belts and other accessories.

5. Because there are no dressing rooms, wear a leotard, a swimsuit or a thin tank top and leggings so you can easily try things on. Wear slip-on shoes.

6. Bring a girlfriend. There are few mirrors, so a fashionable friend can help critique your choices.

All of this shopping madness is for a good cause -- proceeds benefit Goodwill's free job-training and education programs. Last year's sale raised more than $75,000. This is the 25th anniversary of the sale, and Goodwill will celebrate with a Glitter Gala on Nov. 13 at 6 p.m., at the Sheraton Seattle Hotel. The evening will include dinner, live entertainment, a silent auction, a raffle and a fashion show of Glitter Sale items. Tickets for the event are $125.

For up-to-date information and a peek at some of the fashions that await you, check out glittersale.blogspot.com.

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