So, in my last post, Ginger and I had just finished our secret wedding dress shopping, where we got an idea of what kind of dresses we wanted to wear to our wedding. And, I was feeling much less scared of the whole dress shopping thing. I was leaning towards a fun, tea length dress with a big skirt. So, I got on my laptop and looked at every short dress out there. When I found Stephanie James’ blog, I fell in love with her dresses. They are vintage inspired, but still modern. And, they looked like so much fun to wear. Best of all, I could support a cool designer, and know that my dress was made right here in the U.S. I am a big advocate of socially and environmentally responsible business, and I really liked the idea of supporting a small designer over a big wedding dress line that didn’t clearly explain how it sourced it’s dresses.
The only problem with Stephanie James’ dresses was that there wasn’t one for me to try on in Louisiana or back home in MD/DC. But, I was about to go visit my family in San Francisco with Ginger and my parents. And, there was a shop that carried Stephanie James’ dresses there. So, I coordinated my first “real” wedding dress shopping trip with my mom and aunt at Haute Bride. It was another very fun, comfortable shopping experience. I would totally recommend it! I tried on about six dresses, and each time I stood on the platform, and yes they put a veil on me, but it wasn’t too overwhelming. My mom liked the same dresses that I did. No one cried over “the one,” but we had a great time. I knew that the dresses I was trying were in a comfortable price range, and I knew the style I was going for: simple, chic, and fun. And everyone agreed that the glittery, feathery headband was wayyy better than the veil in my short, red hair. I tried on some elaborate dresses, but they were quickly nixed. The best three were two Stephanie James’ dresses and one by Auguta Jones.
Option 1
I loved this shape on me, but I am not sure I want to go strapless. Although, I have to say that bridal dresses that are well made stay put even when they are stapless, which I found surprising. Since Ginger might wear a lace dress, and lace isn’t as much my thing, I have been eying this similar style below.
Option 2
The other Stepanie James’ dress I tried was this polka dot number.
Option 3
The straps were a little too wide for my small frame, but the salesperson I worked with showed me how the straps could be sculpted to fit me a bit better. This really looked great, and it was so fun to wear. I would spend all day twirling in this dress if I could. But, I’m not sure about the polka dots. It’s a fun look, but I don’t know that it is the timeless look I was going for. My very favorite possibility right now is a similarly cut dress in this awesome pleated fabric.
Option 4
And, finally, I really love the dress below. It’s my favorite long dress option right now.
Option 5
It feels free flowing, and a little bit hippie. But, the detail on the bottom is so elegant and pretty. I felt the most bridal in this one. But I think I would rather twirl the night away in one of the above options than drag a bunch of fabric around all night. The fabric and construction of the Stephanie James’ dresses was beautiful. The lace was butter-y soft, and the underskirts are comfy to sit in. They can even dye the tulle all kinds of colors for you. I’m thinking lime green!
So, lovely readers, what do you think? Do you have a favorite?
Personally, I love strapless and think it frees you in certain ways no other dress can–when it stays put. I say twirl the night away in whatever is the most fun for you!
Polka dot! Polka dot! Love it so much. And I tend to think that polka dots ARE timeless. :)
Thanks for the input! Erica- I think you are right. I was really against strapless, but the dresses I tried on were really well made, and stayed exactly where they should. It was so comfortable!
I have to agree with A., I think polka dots are timeless, and I really love that particular dress. But you’re the bride and honestly it sounds like you haven’t found THE dress yet. You’re definitely closing in on it, though, I think. Best of luck and keep us posted!