Instead, we shopped at several spots off the beaten path to see if the bargains would be worth the trip.
Harwin Drive is known for big bargains and unique finds. While you normally have to do all the digging, I found some stores with some great prices that can get you Rodeo ready for a whole lot less, especially for first-time Rodeo visitors.
KTRK producer Britt Guarglia is new to Texas and this will be her first Rodeo. She's amazed by all the hoopla surrounding the world's largest livestock show and rodeo.
Our first stop was Bead and Silver Gallery at 6902 Harwin Drive. We found a huge selection of real stones at discount prices, including turquoise and coral. The necklace we purchased would typically retail for $300, but it's priced for just $69.99 there.
Right now, the store has a wall of jewelry dedicated to Rodeo with a savings of 75 percent off their original prices. The staff is also filled with jewelry designers that can create anything for as little as $20. To really stretch your dollar, you can also pick out your own beads and create your own designs. Prices on those beads start at just $2 a strand.
As a special offer just for KTRK viewers, Bead and Silver Gallery is offering customer 10 percent off any one item now through Sunday when you mention this Stretch Your Dollar story.
Just a few blocks down the street at Southwest Trading Accessory Plaza, we searched for the turquoise look without out the real stone price tag. We found a faux necklace and earring set that is almost an exact match for under $10.
The store also has great Rodeo belts starting at $9.99 and purses from $15.
"You've got to check out the boot bling and you'll be set," said shopper Brenda Brooks.
Our final stop is off Harwin at Charming Charlie. Here they have a Texas-sized section devoted to Rodeo wear, and the stylists can dress anyone from head to toe in just five minutes.
All boots are priced at $39, hats are $20, and purses are $19. The best part of the entire outfit (including a dress) is the cost!
"For under $150 we gave her the best outfit that you could possibly wear to Rodeo," said Charming Charlie store manager Jeff Peters. "A lot of people are not going to know that is not high-end merchandise. They would never have a clue about it."
After a full day of shopping, Britt is now ready for her first Rodeo! We did it all without emptying her wallet. The price of her outfit from three different stores was just $109.
"We found really high end pieces, but then we found something that looks exactly the same for $10. I think you can go all out and invest in those good pieces, but there's also that same look for someone on a budget," she said.
Find Patricia on Facebook at ABC13PatriciaLopez or on Twitter at @patricialopez13
