You might find a sample sale that is offering the best quality designer outfits at highly discounted prices. Finding the sample sales is the tricky part. They are often organized by clubs and you need to get on their books.
If you spend a bit of time browsing the Internet for sample sale clubs and newsletters you should find something that will alert you to sales of your favorite brands. When you do you can be sure to find a smart designer dress that will make you feel very smug, because it is not generally available and because you didn’t pay retail.