| It won't hurt to ask if they have sample gowns for sale. They may not put them out on display in the shop and keep them in back so that people are more likely to purchase one that is ordered. But, you ask "It bad form to ask the store if they'd be willing to sell the sample?" It is tacky to ask to purchase the sample dress that you have your eye on but do not want to order. They are not going to sell you the sample off the hanger as they NEED IT for other customers to view so they can get orders for it. They won't be able to get many orders for dresses that customers can't see and try on. Its the same reason furniture stores won't sell showroom furniture. They need it on display to get the orders. When the manufacturer ceases production of a certain piece, then they will sell floor samples as 'scatch and dent' sale furniture. | 
