When Fabulous and Finances Collide

I met this dress for the first time yesterday…it was love at first sight!  The day was spent looking for an escort (dress!) to my daughter’s wedding and we met by chance in a boutique called Town and Country.  But, alas, this relationship is already on the rocks, because this Jovani Gown is $789!!!  That is over budget for the Mother of the Bride dress!!  My sweet husband said, “Do you think you would wear it again?” 
I have anticipated an invitation for an affair at the White House for years…but I am still waiting!  My sons will probably want to marry in the middle of summer, by a Texas River, in a jeans & boots affair.  So I winced and said sadly, “Not really.”

Shopping for the dress was so stressful.  The really beautiful, affordable sizes do not reach Size 16!  The ones that do are mostly matronly.  My weight loss has created a weird body with a tiny top and still larger hips.  Any dress I tried on would need tailoring.

Gigi went with me and finally convinced me to get a bra fitting at Nordstrom’s and find new undergarments.  Again, I was wearing things too big and ill fitting since the diet. 

Gigi tried on this fabulous St. John’s
coat at Off 5th!  It was only $600!!  We love this
world, but do not live in it!!!

This gown was the only time I looked in the mirror and thought WOW!  So I guess I will keep looking, but now that I know alterations will be required… the pressure is on.

Close up of Jovani

With a tear in my eye, I kiss Jovani good-bye and dream of the moments we would have spent together!!

Good bye My Love!!!

This gown was not a wedding choice….I
just loved it!!

15 Comments

  1. You can always gaze back fondly on the pictures!

    It is a truly stunning dress, and it looks awesome on you, but you are wise to leave it at the store.

  2. On "Say Yes to the Dress," it is ALWAYS advised NOT to try on a dress over your budget. Although it is a fabulous dress, all others shall pale.

  3. It is a gorgeous piece, but you're right, probably not a wise expenditure. You *will* find something that makes sense for you and makes you feel equally stunning.

  4. I feel your pain. But I know you'll find something — especially now that you've figured out some key points about undergarments and tailoring. There is absolutely NO reason for you to settle for a matronly dress. Your proportions are anything but! (I have long believed that shape is more important than size. You have great proportions and will find/fit a dress to them).

  5. The dress does look great. Too bad they won't rent it for a day.

    I too gain weight in different places than where I lose it.

  6. I'm so glad you got a bra fitting – it is hugely necessary as you lose weight (and redo it about once a year!).

    This dress looks gorgeous on you, Pam. Have you thought about separates? There are lots of mermaid-style skirts out there right now, and then you just need a top. Jazz it up with some accessories.

  7. That IS a 'wow' dress – do you have a local dressmaker that could come up with something similar? The lines are really simple, and it's the cut at the waist, the lowered shoulders, and flared skit that are SO flattering!

  8. I agree with everyone else. You look fab in the gown. Why oh why do the manufacturers not understand that plus size women like the same things as everyone else? Even when they do plus sizes, they are never the same–they always seem to change the fabric or the style.
    Even on What Not to Wear Stacy will say that it isn't fair–but why doesn't any mfgr do something about it? They could make a fortune!
    Good luck. I know you will find a lovely dress. But it is hard when you have found something you love that is way too expensive.

  9. I love your blog! I am your newest follower! Too bad about the dress – but I agree with your hubby – you will not be happy later…. I went through that with a dress I wore to my daughter's wedding. When the boys get married I will wear something a more simple that I can wear again. Blessings and Cheers!

  10. Pam–the shoulder line on this gown is absolutely beautiful and the fabric is so rich. I have yet to begin shopping for my matron's gown, but it is supposed to be black…

  11. Uggh! Sorry about the pricetag. It really is a lovely dress. here's hoping something magnificent and budget friendly comes your way!

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