Dress for less

When news was released that the first Bahrain Grand Clearance Sale would be held at the Bahrain International Exhibition Centre, reporter Mai Al Khatib was issued with a fashion challenge she couldn't refuse. She was asked to go shopping. What female in her right mind could turn that down during working hours? However - as with all newsroom challenges - there had to be a catch. The Editor instructed her to find an entire outfit for under BD20.

I do love a good bargain and not to mention a dare ... so I grabbed my photographer and set off on my way to compile a chic ensemble on a budget.

The exhibition was filled with an assortment of high-end boutiques featuring bags, shoes casual and formal wear, electronics, appliances and furniture stores as well as entertainment for children while parents made their rounds.

Some of the stores featured were Jashamal, Ashraf BGDC, Sufana, New Look, J Boutique, Gajaria Electronics and Home Electronics, Mass Computers and Mobitel.

As I worked my way around from one outlet to the next, I began to feel a little discouraged.

I found some great deals on designer evening gowns marked down as low as BD50. However, that was over my budget.

Other items such as designer tops and skirts started from BD5 and onwards. That is where I lived! Don't even get me started on the variety of bags and shoes- I felt like a big kid in a candy store.

While rummaging through railings of clothing, I came across Sadia Saleem, marketing manager of Auto Collection, the organisers of the big sale. She happened to be doing some shopping of her own and struck lucky with a Marc Jacobs skirt from J Boutqiue for BD11 as well as much more. According to Sadia, there have been over 1,000 bargain hunters at the event.

As she wished me good luck on my search for the perfect outfit, and after seeing how she lucked out, my hopes began to soar once more. I then came across the New Look store and that was when I struck fashion gold.

Why go formal when I can go 'Boho Chic'. I then found a lovely long halter dress, red wrap-around sandals and matching red bobble accessories all for BD18! Challenge completed .... with money to spare.

I returned to my Editor with a smirk on my face and pictures to prove it. Who says women can't shop on a budget! (Apparently, he's about to suggest his wife tries the challenge!)

The big sale continues until tomorrow until 10pm and it's also free of charge to enter. For more information contact 36881122