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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
MotherWol · 22/05/2024 09:59

Wow, you look amazing! What absolutely gorgeous photos! Congratulations to you both, so glad it turned out brilliantly 😍

Purplehearts9066 · 22/05/2024 11:28

Thank you so much everyone for your lovely words and well wishes. This has been a delightful corner of Mumsnet, it must be said ❤️

OP posts:
Purplehearts9066 · 22/05/2024 11:30

OodlesPoodle · 21/05/2024 20:17

Eek ignore me!! Just saw your update. Dress is gorgeous. Congratulations!

Thank you so much but may I say, excellent taste and suggestions, I do love Envelope1976, the tailoring is so interesting and immaculate!

OP posts:
Iloveshihtzus · 22/05/2024 11:54

Wow OP! Thank you so much for coming back and giving us photos.

You look amazing, truely beautiful. And your groom looks very handsome. The scenery is breathtaking. What a gorgeous wedding.

stillplentyofjunkinthetrunk · 22/05/2024 14:01

You look amazing! thank you for sharing the photos it looks like an absolutely epic day

Purplehearts9066 · 25/05/2024 16:53

Iloveshihtzus · 22/05/2024 11:54

Wow OP! Thank you so much for coming back and giving us photos.

You look amazing, truely beautiful. And your groom looks very handsome. The scenery is breathtaking. What a gorgeous wedding.

Thank you so much, thank you everyone for your lovely words!

OP posts:
feb2016mummy · 26/05/2024 07:55

You look stunning and the scenery is amazing. So glad you had an amazing day and a wedding that was right for you. Congratulations! 🎉

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