Denver boutique helps hundreds of teens get homecoming dresses at no cost

DENVER ( KDVR ) — It’s that time of year again when high school students get dressed up for the big dance. While some families may not be able to afford the fancy clothes, a Denver boutique is making formal wear more accessible.

Bella Boutique , located at 2129 S. Sheridan Blvd., is a nonprofit that gives free formal wear to teenagers for homecoming, prom or any event.

“I had somebody come up to me and say, ‘I lost my job and I’m just not able to help my daughter find a dress. I feel terrible about it, and this is the only thing that’s making it possible,'” said Bella Boutique president Imani Williams. “We really will help anybody that shows up and wants a dress.”

Bella Boutique started in 2014 in a gym serving 17 students. Now, the boutique’s goal is to serve 550 students this year. It’s not out of the question: The boutique has served over 2,300 students in a decade. According to Bella Boutique, on average, it costs $150 to dress one student head to toe.

“Though it might sound really simple, making sure that these teens get to feel a part of their high school experience and feel part of a community and not have to miss out on something that is so fundamental and such an important piece, and a piece that a lot of people take for granted,” said Williams.

All of the Bella Boutique dresses, shoes and accessories are donated by the community, with a few larger donations from Macy’s and David’s Bridal.

“We try to make it so that all they have to do is get a ticket,” said Williams. “We had so many incredible students that walked out of here just so excited and kept thanking us and are so appreciative of the space. I feel so lucky to get to do this.”

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