The Dress

Technically this dress is "used" because I didn't purchase it directly from a boutique, but no one has actually worn it - so it's ready for its first official wedding!

This style has ivory lace with gold/champagne lining which allows the lace, which is so unique and gorgeous, to stand out more than it would with an ivory lining.

The straps are stunning with beading that is eye-catching in an extremely elegant way. There is also beading around the waist that matches the straps.

I fell in love with this dress and worked tirelessly to find it, but ended up going with separates instead. My future mother-in-law basically begged me to wear this dress, she thought it was so incredible (and she used to work in the bridal department at Saks!). When I tried it on I felt like a graceful boho vintage 1940s movie star, to attempt to put it in words.

Note the lining is not stretchy but the lace is. There are three layers to this dress (two lining, one lace).

Measurement notes: my height is 5' 4" *without* shoes. The measurements I noted are from when I got an alterations quote; keep in mind that this dress is *not* fitted to me in the photos. (The alterations I was quoted for were shortening the fabric around the bust, shortening the straps, hemming and bustling - but I had no alterations done.) I'm not positive about this, but a boutique owner told me the sizing for a size 10 in this designer is bust 37.5", waist 28.5", hips 40". I also asked a professional tailor if the dress had any alterations and, after searching for some time, she said she didn't see evidence of any. She said that perhaps the dress was hemmed a little, but if it was it was barely noticeable.

I bought this dress from an individual seller (she never wore the dress) because at first I couldn't find the gold in a size 10 at any stores (I called dozens and dozens of boutiques across the country). I was eventually quoted $1900 by one boutique, but I purchased from someone else instead. I did get the dress dry cleaned for $100 when I thought I was sticking with it. (It arrived looking great, I just wanted to have it cleaned for myself.) But now it's even more clean and fresh!

I would love for someone to fall in love with this dress and enjoy it on their wedding day. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask! It's truly an incredible dress.

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Here is the description from the Val Stefani website if you're interested:

https://www.valstefani.com/Product/SimplyValStefani/S2072/
Fitted through the bodice and hips then gently flared to create a subtle mermaid silhouette, this exquisite gown features an intricate and ornate pattern of lace in a vertical orientation that creates a long, lean, statuesque line. Gently scalloped at the hem of the skirt and train, this design offers an open, airy look with its deep front neckline and low V-back. Rich with texture, this lace mermaid wedding dress features a slender waistband at the natural waist, creating a figure-flattering silhouette that makes it look simply gorgeous from every angle. The multiple back straps add a unique, distinctive touch and a hint of sex appeal.