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Reality vs. Expectations @NightmareKnockoffs/Facebook
Shopping for clothing online may appear to be a simple way to save money. After all, making a purchase in-store frequently results in spending far more than originally expected. It's tempting to fall for low-cost websites that promise runway looks for a fraction of the price, but be wary.
In the lovely world of internet clothing, not everything that glitters is gold. It might not even be polyester. Some websites, such as AliExpress, promote beautiful gowns, but the actual product is often not as advertised. From fish-tail gowns that resemble Flamin' Hot Cheetos to costumes that resemble failed homeroom projects, cost-cutting can be a minefield that should be avoided. These buyers learned the hard way so you won't have to.
1. Pink Rhinestone Gown.
Original dress price: $1,056.00 to $1,738.00 USD
Original created by Terani Couture
Knockoff Acquired at: AliExpress
Knockoff Acquired for: $30
For decades, rhinestones have been a popular addition to prom gowns around the world. You might believe they went out of style in the 1980s, but this trend was just getting started at the time. Nowadays, practically all dresses have these cheap imitation diamonds meticulously stitched on - but that doesn't mean they look like a million bucks.

Pink Rhinestone Gown at Brides Beware/Facebook.com
In one example, an unknowing buyer believed she was getting the beautiful peach-colored fairytale gown from Ali Express. What turned up was a very different story. She wanted Cindy Crawford stylish, but instead got Cyndi Lauper. Then again, what do you expect for $30?
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