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Please help me pick a nice evening dress for my elopement!

157 replies

Purplehearts9066 · 07/03/2024 09:50

Hi all

I'm eloping to Scotland in May - it'll be just the two of us (plus celebrant & photographer), and we're getting a boat out to a stunning loch where we'll be getting married.

I'm looking for a dress to wear that fits my personal style and is within a budget of around £300. I want something long, and I'll be wearing hiking or lace-up leather boots underneath.

I'm unsure yet if I'm going to wear white or black. I'm leaning a bit more towards a black dress - I am a bit of a goth and I always feel my best in black. I love clothes and appreciate nice fabrics and good cuts. I'd rather spend my budget on a high quality "normal dress" rather than a very cheap "wedding dress".

I'm having a hard time finding something to wear though - even trying things on is challenging because in my city the department stores that sold that kind of thing have closed down and very few shops stock "evening gown" type stuff.

My shape/features:

  • Just under 5"7
  • Slim (size 6-8) with a small waist
  • Long dark hair
  • Boob deficient

My style:

  • Sharp lines
  • I like a bit of "drama" but I need this to come from shape/structure/fabric, unusual design features. I strongly dislike fussy details on myself.
  • High necks, sharp v-necks, halternecks, boat-necks
  • Nothing "booby" (i.e sweetheart necklines, padding) but I can pull off some plunging necklines as long as they're sharp.
  • Gothic/edgy/alternative elements
  • Fine lace
  • Prefer wearing one colour head-to-toe and my preferences are black, white and emerald green

The Wedding Look I want:

  • A dress that will look cool in photos with a mountain back-drop
  • Going for a slightly gothic look with my make-up
  • Would like a veil or cape

Please help me!!

In particular, I'd really like your thoughts on:

  • Retailers/brands/shops to consider
  • Any suggestions for dresses - hit me with your links!!
  • If you happen to know of any shops in the South Wales area where I could try on dresses

Thanks so much all!

OP posts:
Thread gallery
41
Workingmytickettoparadise · 07/03/2024 18:59

This could be accessories in terms of lace etc. https://www.asos.com/six-stories/six-stories-bridesmaids-cowl-back-satin-maxi-dress-in-black/prd/204785913#colourWayId-204785914

ApolloandDaphne · 07/03/2024 19:03

This is nothing to do with style or dresses but won't you need 2 witnesses for your marriages ceremony? I'm assuming the celebrant can't do this.

SparrowFeet · 07/03/2024 19:27

What about renting a vampires wife dress?
They've got a lovely black velvet one here which I reckon you could get a cape to match byrotation.com/designers/the-vampire's-wife

Punsandroses · 07/03/2024 19:45

https://www.debenhams.com/product/goddiva-scalloped-lace-maxi-dress_p-1a4a0423-5b56-4b27-8f09-e013db306e8b?colour=Emerald&size=10&sv1=affiliate&sv_campaign_id=1464636&awc=22735_1709839793_06eafa2e3143facfecbc2891986a4c33&utm_medium=affiliates&utm_source=awin&utm_campaign=UK_1464636&utm_content=Comparison+Shopping+Service+%28CSS%29
So this one ot fine lace..
https://www.debenhams.com/product/goddiva-full-sleeve-sequin-evening-dress_p-06c71486-3a95-4402-82ac-47f945c6122a?colour=Emerald&size=10&gad_source=1&sv1=affiliate&sv_campaign_id=259955&awc=22735_1709839972_bdf0574bfa2585e75d14e2307fa23b8a&utm_medium=affiliates&utm_source=awin&utm_campaign=UK_259955&utm_content=Comparison+Shopping+Service+%28CSS%29 not emerald but has a goth look?
Or this? https://www.glamlora.co.uk/sheath-column-scoop-gorgeous-long-sleeves-sweep-train-lace-mother-of-the-bride-dress-glmm0115.html

https://www.stacees.co.uk/product/trumpet-mermaid-jersey-prom-dress-v-neck-court-train-S7567P?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiA6KWvBhAREiwAFPZM7uy355NIWdDhFTM0qsKCAhpu3rprnxQQfyTL-RrOMKKcjFxMGdFh1BoCP7EQAvD_BwE

I think the emerald green would look stunning in a loch setting

Are any if these getting close to what you had in mind?

Dresses | Scalloped Lace Maxi Dress | Goddiva

Discover Scalloped Lace Maxi Dress at Goddiva available to buy online at Debenhams. Available with next day delivery and free returns. Find your perfect fit today.

https://www.debenhams.com/product/goddiva-scalloped-lace-maxi-dress_p-1a4a0423-5b56-4b27-8f09-e013db306e8b?awc=22735_1709839793_06eafa2e3143facfecbc2891986a4c33&colour=Emerald&size=10&sv1=affiliate&sv_campaign_id=1464636

Punsandroses · 07/03/2024 19:47

Excuse my mistakes, clunky fingers tonight!!

Chaiselongueallday · 07/03/2024 22:45

Ooh yes was going to say Disturbia, Dollskill, Little Lies, The Gothic Shop and Etsy

There is a particular seller that does dresses with sparkle/star embroidery I don't know if that would be too much?

Lucked · 07/03/2024 22:48

https://www.wolfandbadger.com/uk/satin-long-dress-emerald-tied-back/

sorry above budget but it is really nice

Please help me pick a nice evening dress for my elopement!
HolidayHappy123 · 07/03/2024 22:49

The Vampire's Wife metallic dresses are epic and there are loads to rent from the link posted above.

eatreadsleeprepeat · 07/03/2024 22:50

Something from Bombshell?

sittingingold · 08/03/2024 03:00

Definitely rent a vampires wife dress, you'll look epic!