After being vehemently opposed to David's Bridal, guess what? I found my dream dress there. It was an ivory all-over beaded lace trumpet-style gown with an illusion halter neckline, matching sash and chapel train (yes, I got that description off of the DB website).
I always knew that I wanted a halter neckline, but I had pictured a more full A-line skirt. But after trying many dresses of this style on, I realized this wasn't the most flattering style for me. So when I came across my dress I fell in love with the slimmer trumpet style.
Here's a shot of my dress monogram, with my new initials and wedding date. I loved this little detail. You can get these from a variety of places now, but my mom got mine through the J. Crew wedding site. It was my "something blue" and such a sweet little extra:
Here's a picture of my sis putting on my garter:
And one of my dad walking me down the "aisle":
One of the things I loved most about the dress was the lace work. The pictures really do not do it justice. I never considered my self a lace girl, but this dress had me at hello. It reminded me of some of the much more expensive Monique Lhuillier-style dresses.
Another thing I loved about my dress was the way it bustled. Because the beaded lace was SO heavy, the alterations lady recommended a double bustle - an over bustle AND an under bustle. I loved the way it turned out, even though we did have to re-tie it a few times throughout the night (I don't think even the strongest bustle had a chance with all of the moves I was busting). Here's a good shot of the dress bustled:
And finally, here's a shot of my bridal portrait:
But where is my dress now? Hanging in a closet at my mom's house. On a regular 'ole hanger. Still dirty from too much dancing and biodegradable rice. Exposed to all types of dust and damaging materials. I need to get it cleaned and preserved. Just one more thing on my post-wedding To Do list (9 months later).
I've thought about selling it. I'm under no illusions that a daughter might wear it 25 years from now. And I could possibly get some decent money for it (not to mention saving the $150 it costs to have it cleaned and preserved). But, I'm just not sure I can part with it.
What do you guys think? Preserve it and stick it in a closet forever? Or sell it and possibly regret it later?
**All images taken by the lovely Leslie of Leslie Ann Mills Photography.
