Good for you. I keep all buttons on worn out clothing before it is thrown away. I recently purchased a beaded skirt for $5 at a second hand store, just for the beads.
I just cut shell buttons off two worn out garments from my closet. My favorite buttons and so pricey.
What you can't make a hand bag out of the dress? I must have been horrible! Lol!
A excellent deal. In the UK we call these shops charity shops and I have had many excellent purchases for the buttons at a cheaper price than a sewing shop. Often there is more choice in these shops. Enjoy using your buttons