I really need an honest opinion

[BrightonBelleCat]

On my dress can I get some help?

The phase 8 one is gorgeous, much better op!

Do have a look at Vivienne of Holloway. They have some great dresses- just their usual frocks but in white or ivory.

The Phase 8 one is more pedestrian, but might look a lot better on. The styling they use to sell Phase 8, Monsoon etc wedding dresses is seriously dull though. Really nice dresses and they manage to make them look as boring as fuck

I like your first choice with a wider sash and red shoes

You are not too old to go actual bridal dress shopping btw. Nobody is. Pop into Wed2Be, an actual Phase 8 store, make an appointment at Debenhams...

Thanks paddy and Snorlax

Shall report back when I have taken delivery. I'm still wearing those red shoes !

The dress you've just ordered looks fab!

love the 2nd one Sarcasm sent thru

an actual Phase 8 store
I think only a few of the shops have wedding dresses in stock.
But they have amazing ball gowns if you don't want a 'wedding' dress.

Update! Pls see new dress!

It seems to fit you very well, but the dress looks crumpled and as if you've got a dressing gown belt around your waist. Sorry!

sarcasm's second dress looks fab.

I've just pulled it out of the wrapping so probably needs a press. I'm going to change the belt.

I think you should go to your local Wed2B store. I bought a lovely dress there for under £200.

You don't have to be young to shop there and the assistants are very helpful. You don't need an appointment.

I'm very glad you sent the first dress back!

I think you should go to a store - I had an image in my head of what I wanted but changed it completely when I tried on dresses.

You really won't be out of place, everyone so far has been very friendly and nice with me.

I have a very small budget. No stores I go too have really cheap dresses. I also feel a bit frumpy and rubbish. My self confidence is on the floor at the moment.

OP what do you like and what look are you wanting to go for?

As an example, the bodice in this dress seems to fit better than the other one. If you're wanting a sleek look, then this dress would be too fussy on top. If you're wanting something with more going on then this would tick the box.

I really liked the idea of the red sash with your fab red shoes. But if you want something less funky and more ethereal then it wouldn't be such a good idea!

What look are you wanting?

X-Post.

You aren't frumpy! Those are not the shoe choice of a frumpy person. You've just not found the dress that makes you feel good yet!

New dress is a hundred times better. Really compliments your curves. Plus those shoes are fab!

I just wanted a 50s style lace dress. With a 'foofy' skirt. What about the red sash with this dress?

I liked this dress but am not keen on belt it's a bit 'nothing-y'

What is your budget?

I think both those dresses are too short in the body for you. You are not at all frumpy! And could pull a lot of different styles off

I love the top half but agree with those posters saying the bottom half is a bit unfinished looking - there is such a huge contrast between top and bottom. Have you considered getting something all in one fabric?

The second dress is much more flattering & I think your shoes are beautiful! However you have to love it, so if you don't feel beautiful in it then keep looking.

I don't know your area but I'm sure there will be some wedding dresses that will offer styles in budget. I was insecure and paranoid about my weight however in wedding shops they are amazing at making you feel good and coaxing you to try things that will make you look amazing.

If you won't try a wedding shop places like Debenhams and John Lewis do free personal shopping so may be worth a try if you're not really excited about the new dress

I think it looks amazing! Agree that it looks better without the sash & after a corset 😍

I'd probably have the sleeves finish around the elbow but that's my personal preference.

Congrats!