Selecting your evening gown is one of the most important aspects of pre-pageant preparation. It can also be the most overwhelming. Your evening gown paints a "portrait" to the judging panel and gives them insight to your personality. This dress also serves as a wonderful opportunity to show off your best qualities. Since the dress itself is not being judged, it is important to remember it's how the contestant looks in the dress that's being considered. Here are a few tips to help you capture the crown. Tip #1: Cost You don't have to spend a fortune to win! An evening gown is generally only one of many garments you'll need during pageant weekend so look for ways to reduce costs. One of the biggest myths in pageantry is how much money you'll have to spend on your evening gown. Pageant insiders know designers often create gowns for their less expensive lines based on sample designs from the couture collections. Olivia Jordan stu