The environs of NYC and LA have long had places where fashion forward (yet pocket poor) ladies can rent dresses and accessories for events, but until recently Chicago women were forced to buy their finery. Lakeview’s Borrow a Dress Couture has changed all that, with a complete line of dresses for all occasions — as well as accessories and outerwear.

I had the good fortune of renting this cobalt blue asymmetrical number from Notte by Marchesa in October, and the results were stunning. For about the price of a week’s lunches out, I was able to spend the evening in princess mode. And that wasn’t even my first choice! I had originally picked a different dress, but a zipper malfunction had me running back to the store — in the dress, which had to be unstitched off my body to get my out of it. But co-owner Bree was gracious and hooked me up with the Notte dress, and everything else went off without a hitch.

Many people have asked me what happens if you spill something on the dress or have an accident — the answer is that most stains and some damage can be fixed by the cleaners (the fee for which is included in the three-day rental prices, which start at $35 and go up from there). A deposit of the retail price of the dress is held when you rent it, only to be charged to you if the frock isn’t returned or is damaged beyond repair.

As of this writing, BADC is selling off its winter stock to make room for Valentine’s Day pieces, so head on in to check out the steals. And tell Bree that Amy sent you.

Borrow a Dress Couture (3221 N Sheffield, 773-904-8735) is open Mon-Fri, 12n-8pm; Sat & Sun 12n-5pm.

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