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Struggling to find a wedding dress I like!

14 replies

Unsure4589 · 15/07/2025 11:03

We're getting married in 6 weeks. Mid-week registry office do, our kids and a small amount of family only. I want to feel special and a little bridal, but given what we've chosen to do, I don't want a traditional wedding gown! I'm stuck and hoping for some hive mind help!

Had DS 7 months ago and still breastfeeding (but planning to bottle feed on the day), and so I've been having a hard time dressing the body (and big boobs) I've got now rather than the very slender one I used to have. I'm probably a size 8, 32E.

I'd love to find something minimalist that I could potentially, easily wear again if it's on the pricier side. Ivory, off-white, or colourful, but not brilliant white. Hoping to pair with Carel Kina shoes, either in red or burgundy, as I know i'll wear them a lot. Brands I like include Reformation, Sandro, Sezane, etc. My bust and short torso make me think I need to expose my chest a bit, otherwise I'm just a wall of boob, if that makes sense. I'm drawn to the idea of a loose-ish shift dress. Simple but expensive-looking?!

Any ideas? Brands I should consider based on the above? Budget is somewhat flexible but ideally less than £500.

OP posts:
zaxxon · 15/07/2025 11:09

Congratulations!

If you're breastfeeding, your body will probably change shape (eventually) once you stop, so I wouldn't advise spending £££ on a dress - particularly a bridal-esque one, since you'll never be able to wear it to anyone else's wedding.

You could consider renting? There are links on here to articles on "best dress rental sites", from Vogue and maybe Elle.

Unsure4589 · 15/07/2025 11:12

Thanks, that's a good idea. DS is my second so boobs already pretty knacked. I've got a rough idea of what'll happen after I stop bf this time, so hoping for a dress that can withstand the change!

OP posts:
GoldDuster · 15/07/2025 11:33

This any good?

Whatareyoutalkingaboutnow · 15/07/2025 12:06

Ghost springs to mind.
Or monsoon.

owlexpress · 15/07/2025 13:10

Self-Portrait? I'm a bit confused by your wants, as a shift dress to me says high neck so not showing boob. I also have similar sized boobs and don't consider them particularly big, although I appreciate if they've recently changed you probably are aware of them. Any other areas of your body you'd prefer to show off or hide? It sounds like you might prefer a short dress?

I wouldn't worry about not being able to wear it again, you can always have it tailored if your body does change.

https://www.self-portrait.com/collections/wedding

They are all gorgeous IMO. This might meet your brief

https://www.self-portrait.com/products/pf25-cream-boucle-bow-mini-dress

Unsure4589 · 15/07/2025 13:43

GoldDuster · 15/07/2025 11:33

This any good?

A bit flouncy for me. I will definitely explore The Outnet though, so thank you!

OP posts:
Unsure4589 · 15/07/2025 13:44

Whatareyoutalkingaboutnow · 15/07/2025 12:06

Ghost springs to mind.
Or monsoon.

I forgot about Ghost, thanks!

OP posts:
Unsure4589 · 15/07/2025 13:51

@owlexpress I'm 5ft and typically a size 6, so I feel like a 32E looks enormous on me! I was a 30D before my first pregnancy - could easily get away without a bra. A dress with a scoop or v-neck would be good I think.

I was tempted by this one from SP but DH-to-be wasn't a fan. I like it but don't love it, and don't really think I'd re-wear. Ditto this one, which is a bit too...romantic?! Ha! https://www.self-portrait.com/products/ss25-cream-satin-flower-midi-dress

Close, but not quite right, aargh!

Cream Crepe 3D Sequin Mini Dress

Destined for bridal parties, this playful mini signals fun times ahead. Cut from cream crepe for its smooth structure, floral motifs adorn the leg-lengthening hem – wear with heels for full impact. Shop online at self-portrait. Free UK and US delivery.

https://www.self-portrait.com/products/ss25-cream-crepe-3d-sequin-mini-dress

OP posts:
Unsure4589 · 15/07/2025 13:58

Think I've ruled out satin, though. It doesn't hide enough lumps and I just won't wear it again!

OP posts:
GhastlyGoodTaste · 15/07/2025 17:50

Have a look at Net-a-Porter. Have filtered for off white and in ascending order of price. You could always look for labels that appeal on rental sites too.

https://www.net-a-porter.com/en-gb/shop/clothing/dresses?facet=ads_f11503_ntk_cs%253A%2522Off-white%2522&orderBy=8&pageNumber=1

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