The Search for the Perfect Wedding Dress: A Champagne Dress with a Cream Soda Price Tag
In searching for the perfect wedding dress I had an epiphany come over me. I’ve always been a Daddy’s girl…his little princess…the apple of his eye. When it became clear that I had found the man of my dreams, dad was so supportive. Wedding plans? Nothing was too good for his little girl! Dress budget? The sky’s the limit, he told me. Wow! What girl wouldn’t be thrilled with this offer? I tend to be somewhat of a frugalista, though. I love the thrill of a bargain hunt, so I made an offer to daddy. If I could find a dress for under $1500, he would pay for the extras that were on our honeymoon wishlist but not our budget. Things like snorkeling lessons, parasailing and jet ski rentals. I was tickled to death when he agreed to my bargain!
I gathered my besties and the hunt for the perfect dress began. The first one I tried was a beautiful Aiguille frock for only $1200.00. I loved the flowing clean silhouette and the way the sequins highlighted my best features. It had a sheer look, while the silk lining kept me from revealing too much. The puffed sleeves were very chic, just not on me. On to the next store. 
Glamour luxury for less!
My mom spotted the next candidate, an adorable silk-linen A-line sheath. The scalloped hem and flower cut-outs looked perfect for a beachfront gig. A bit too casual for me, though. The next pick, courtesy of my MOH, took me in a totally different direction. A taffeta confection with rhinestones, pearls, crystal beads and sequins–this dress was over the top! While I loved the ruffled bottom and the way it hugged my frame, it still wasn’t THE DRESS.
The next one I spotted was definitely closer. I loved the cap sleeves and the detailing in the back. The embroidered lace was simply divine. Loved the elegantly classical feel; it was just a tad too heavy for my summer soiree. I was starting to get a little discouraged, but then I spied a Gatsby-style gown. I felt just like Daisy Buchanan as soon as I put it on! Magnificent! The fit and flare silhouette flattered my figure and the modified sweetheart neckline was perfect for my pearls. I loved the chapel train and the beaded floral details.
My bridal party was in total agreement … once they recovered from their initial awe, that is! I topped it with a mini blusher ornamented with a white feather flower for the final touch. The really great thing? All the gowns I tried were under $1500! I really hadn’t expected to find such an array when I made my deal with Dad! Woo hoo!
Not only do I get my dream dress, I get all my honeymoon extras, too! Now if I can only be patient until the big day … that’s going to be a lot harder than finding my perfect (budget) dress!
Davids Bridal – Soft Gown – Endlessly glamorous, incredibly stylish, progressive and versatile – you are red carpet ready in every way Ruching and draping lays on the body beautifully to accentuate your shape in this sultry Charmeuse wedding gown. Embellished strap and beaded neckline provide the perfect accents for a dazzling finish. Sweep train.
Davids Bridal – Elegant and unique, this lace-over-charmeuse gown balances glamour with timeless beauty. Lace-over-charmeuse is both ultra feminine and ultra chic. Beaded soutache floral detail adds rich texture. Fit-and-flare silhouette is sleek and sophisticated. Chapel train.
BHLDN Eyelet Medley Sheath – Airy flower cutouts climb the scalloped hem of our beach-bound dress, crafted of lightweight silk-linen and draped into an easy A-line silhouette that falls gracefully to the floor. Its cross-front sash defines your waist and draws the eye to a deep-V neckline. From the makers of There Is Only You & Me, designed exclusively for BHLDN. Hidden side zip.
BHLDN Aiguille Gown – Scintillating arcs of sequins and a row of round buttons adorn a straight and clean silhouette from Anna Sui. Softly puffed sleeves and a split hem at the front of the skirt further its chicly debonair aura. Back zip closure. Professionally clean. Imported.
Ann Taylor Silk Georgette V Neck Gown – Pure romance: we’re in love with shirred detail throughout this ethereal style. Crossover V-neck. Hidden side zipper with hook-and-eye closure. Lined. 44 1/2″ from natural waist.
Ann Taylor Gown Isabella lace – Exquisite lace is impeccably embroidered for a luxe finish. Inside bustier. Back button closure. Hidden back zipper with hook-and-eye closure. Lined. 44 1/2″ from natural waist.
Images for Dresses:
Alfred Angelo
Ann Taylor
BHLDN
Davids Bridal
