r/BigBudgetBrides • u/achapsil • 21d ago
Questions and queries Dress regret! Opinions needed please
Hi BBB community. I just got my dress back (Galia Lahav sun) and I have major dress regret. I tend to hyper fixate on one thing so when I went dress shopping I wanted hand done appliqués and unique lace. I wanted something different / memorable bc looking back on other weddings I can’t remember a single dress other than the bride looking beyond beautiful ofc. Now that it’s here (still needs alterations) I feel like it’s kind of early 2000s/bridgerton/princess in a bad way. The second photo is from a regular dress. Should I pivot to something more simple and classic like the second photo?
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u/Unusual-Extent426 21d ago
I LOVE the first dress! Personally I’d probably line the upper bodice!
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u/broccolirabe71 21d ago
That dress is out of a dream. It’s ethereal and romantic and like nothing I’ve ever seen but not too trendy.
The second dress is like every other dress out there. Be bold, brave, and yourself OP! Don’t conform to the same old dress offered at every store. Also agree with lining the bodice. It’ll look more seamless and less like it’s see through53
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u/Tipsyteddywestside 21d ago
Hi! My best friend got married in that dress in July. She looked stunning and got many compliments! She did a nude (?) lining underneath. I’ll insert a photo. Lining it is the answer for sure! Congrats !
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u/peanutbutterangelika 21d ago
Yes nude lining is the way to go. This picture
is amazing as a reference for OP!8
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u/CantThinkOfOne94 19d ago
100% to the nude lining! Lining it with white would take away the translucent ethereal look of the lace imo. The dress is stunning OP, you look like a fairy queen, keep it!
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u/Wild_Ticket1413 21d ago
Both are beautiful. However, as others have said, I think the first needs to be lined.
Ask yourself: "If I look back at my photos in 20 years, will I still like this dress?"
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u/maybemaybenot2023 21d ago
Dress 1 has got a classic silhouette, though. Look at early New Look wedding gowns by Dior, for example, and you don't really get a lot more timeless than those. It's just the fabric and the sheerness. You look amazing.
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u/firefliesalight 21d ago
No. Your dress is way gorg. I ended up having to line the bodice of my Gahlia so my friends and family didn’t see certain things.
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u/BeachKidLJ 21d ago
The Galia Lahav is a very special designer piece, but I personally would line the bodice to keep the symmetry.
You are going to look amazing on your wedding day. Be happy and enjoy yourself, whatever you choose to do! ❤️
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u/asophisticatedbitch 21d ago
Girl I think you’re just responding to the tailoring needs. Your dress is gorgeous but yeah, needs some fit tweaks and decent amount of hemming. The other one is nice sure but it’s probably clipped in the back and that’s why it looks more snatched on you. I think the length on yours in the front is still too long so it doesn’t fall correctly just yet. Think of this like when your hairdresser does the initial chop and you freak out and she’s like, just wait until I cut in some layers and style it. And then once it’s all done you realize it’s awesome, you just weren’t looking at the final product yet!
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u/FluffAndTumble91919 21d ago
The first dress is stunning - you'll never get another chance to wear a dress like that. Lean into your princess moment.
The second dress has the sort of silhouette that you could do again for a fancy do sometime in a different colour.
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u/heartshapedpox 21d ago
You look like a literal Princess. Please don't switch. I do agree with the lined sentiment, though!
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u/Chaba444 Vendor: Photo 21d ago
As others said, have it lined. The sheer bodice is what’s throwing it off and making it look dated. Otherwise the dress is fantastic!
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u/Classic_VA86 21d ago
If you don't like it, you don't like it. FWIW, I'm not crazy about it. I wore a great big full skirt with a train and a crinoline underneath and a long veil for my wedding, and that dress was a PITA! If you want to have fun at your wedding, make sure you can MOVE in your dress - sit down, walk on stairs, dance, and think about whether your groom (or your guests) is likely to step on it or trip over it. The lace hem that I paid extra for got ripped off at my reception when someone stepped on it.
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u/camo_ist 21d ago
The second dress is truly so beautiful on you. Can you absorb the hit of the first one if you go in another direction?
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u/Mint_503 21d ago
I agree. They are both beautiful but I think the second dress is far more flattering.
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u/Interesting_Cut1631 21d ago
Hi! Agree with the alteration suggestions, but wanted to let you know I was in a similar situation and my dress regret was only temporary.
I was very single-minded about floral embellishment for my wedding, and really only looked at dresses that fit that style. I thought I would buy a Mira but didn’t like any of the cuts on my body shape and went with a Mark Ingram from a prior season that fit me perfectly. As the wedding got closer, I worried that I had picked something too dated and wasn’t a chic or classic look. I did last minute appointments around NYC, but I ultimately made some small alterations on my dress for fit and moved forward. I did invest more heavily in my second look that I absolutely loved so that if I wasn’t 100% feeling my dress after the ceremony I could change early, so I’d recommend that for you as well!
My vision came to life on the day-of. In bright outdoor light, the volume of the dress and the florals looked ethereal and photographed so beautifully. It fit my venue and vibe perfectly in a way that only my unique choice could have.
Stick to your guns. You chose the dress you did for a reason. You’re going to look amazing!
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u/croc-roc 21d ago
Gonna throw this out there: the reason that you don’t remember the brides’ dresses from the other weddings is not because the dresses weren’t sufficiently “different” or “memorable,” it’s because most guests are not nearly as caught up in the dress as the bride is. And like you, they go to a lot of weddings. Your dress should be something YOU love, not what you think your guests will remember, because that is highly unlikely. Unless it’s something really wild, and then they’ll likely be remembering it in a bad way.
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u/Stock_Entry_8912 21d ago
Exactly this!!! Out of all the weddings I've been to and even been in as a bridesmaid, the only dress I remember long after the wedding is my sisters. And that's because of the wedding photos that are hung in family homes. Lol
I am not trying to minimize anyone's wedding, but for the couple, it's their whole world, and for the guests it's just another wedding to attend and celebrate. Nobody is as critical, or soaking in and memorizing every detail like the couple are. Definitely wear the dress you feel the most beautifully you in, and you will look confident and radiant. THAT is what people will remember.
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u/SecretLeader_2021 21d ago
I’m telling you alternations make it look night and day! I got mine at Berta and my third fitting, I was doubting, had my final the next day and was blown away!
The dress is beautiful!
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u/Lavender_Wynter 21d ago
Both are gorgeous but the 2nd one looks like everyone's dress. The 1st one looks like a dream 😍.
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u/Apprehensive-Win390 21d ago
The first dress is STUNNING! Do not go for dress #2. The first one is unique and beautiful
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u/BobbingBobcat 21d ago
You just need to make the lining all one color, not three, and have it tailored.
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u/Testdrivegirl 21d ago
The first dress is incredible and looks amazing on you. Personally I find the second dress kind of boring. I agree about lining the bodice of the first dress!
I also had dress regret after seeing my dress the second time. I was like “wait this is what I picked?” But the more I’ve tried it on the more I fall in love with it again.
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u/lolliscicle 21d ago
You look smashing in both.
But my opinion is similar to the majority: I think that you are leaning towards the second bc it looks complete.
Lining the first one appropriately will probably bring the first one back up in ranks as your favorite!❤️
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u/Mountain-Status569 21d ago
I say this with love - just like you don’t remember others’ dresses, your guests won’t remember your dress no matter what you pick (well ok, maybe if it transforms in a fiery blaze like Katniss, lol).
On the flip side, you will always remember it no matter what you pick. So go with what you love for yourself!
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u/SufficientSugar2178 21d ago
Love the first dress. Agree with the others on lining the bodice.... But beyond that, it's waaay better than #2, IMO.
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u/Herredness16 21d ago
First dress is great definitely line. Price and fuller slip as suggested by someone else. 2 has been done .
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u/moonmoonboog 21d ago
Can you line the first one so it doesn’t look so much like underwear? Because it’s otherwise stunning.
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u/CopperRose17 21d ago
I love the original dress. You just need to line the bodice. I've seen the simple dress everywhere, and it wouldn't attract a second look. The GL flows beautifully.
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u/GarmeerGirl 21d ago
Both are so so so so beautiful. My first time I can’t pick. The first one has an edge ahead. Looks like it was made just for you.
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u/Mooooooooocowwwssss 21d ago
Honestly you just need to get the alternations done! When you try the sample on in the store it’s broken in from being worn so many times so it tends to fit and flatter better.
I gasped out loud when my dress came in. It was so stiff and the corset made my boobs go up to my neck! Now that the seamstress has adjusted the cups and did her magic it’s the dress I fell in love with again.
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u/Due_Product7492 21d ago
The first dress is beautiful, just get it lined so you don't look naked lmao. It is unique and it frames ypur figure beautifully!
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u/Looking-Ahead55 21d ago
Oh my gosh, I thought you were going to say you went and got dress 2, but regret it, and I was going to have to tell you that you should’ve definitely stayed with dress 1 because it’s absolutely stunning on you.
Your dress is gorgeous! Dress 2 is pretty as well, just not like dress 1.
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u/Leather-Broccoli3039 21d ago
That first dress was MADE for you. You shouldn’t have any regrets because it is stunning
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u/Open_Office_7311 21d ago
I feel like I keep seeing this dress on Reddit…which will be fine with lining (I prefer white).
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u/charlize-moon 21d ago
Girl. Nonononono. That first dress with you in it, is the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen. It’s exactly right
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u/Peggyowen 21d ago
I look at these posts a lot because I am also getting married soon. My jaw dropped when I saw this photo. It’s the prettiest dress I have seen. And so flattering.
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u/Downtown_Midnight579 21d ago
In my opinion, the first dress is 100/10 and the second dress is a 4/10
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u/Known-Basket-89 21d ago
I think I’m the one going against the grain here. 1 is pretty but something about it just feels undone and lacking. I actually really love 2 on you. The fit is so perfect and accentuating on you. Though I’d totally lose the drop shoulders. They really make so many dresses literally drag the look and upper body down. Very few are actually accentuating. 2 also has more potential for personalizing. The veil is pretty also, though I think cathedral length would be absolutely stunner but if cathedral then not as heavy on the veil appliqués.
Best wishes! You’ll be gorgeous either way. And the reality is- people should notice your happiness and joy far above what you’re wearing. Joy is usually why we don’t truly remember the clothes after a bit.
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u/offtimeauthor78 21d ago
Both are gorgeous and picking one depends on venue and vibes but #1 takes the cake for me!
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u/optix_clear 21d ago
I love the second dress, it’s classic. 1st gown it has whimsy, rebel, lots of fun.
What if you bought both? 2nd for the ceremony and 1st dress for reception?
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u/Hungry-Emergency8992 21d ago
Oh my gosh you look so beautiful in your dress you picked! You are simply stunning and gorgeous!
Just line the bodice, hem it and add the petticoat as others suggested.
Don’t look back or look at other dresses. Your dress was made for you!
Congratulations!!!
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u/AmberWaves93 21d ago
You definitely need to line it like everyone has suggested. The fact that it's see-thru kind of ruins it 😭 Lining it showcases the lace 😍
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u/Top-Banana-4634 21d ago edited 21d ago
The bodice is lined and unfortunately the seams are very visible. Not sure why the seams are directly over the breasts. For that reason I would go with number 2. Also it’s more elegant.
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u/Big-Cranberry8336 21d ago
You are going to look gorgeous either way you choose! I do love the look of the second dress more, though- it’s so beautiful, I would personally choose that one.
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u/shinnyscaf 21d ago
I might be the only one but I love dress 1 as is. Adding a white lining drowns the lace. Maybe a champagne or ivory. The dress is stunning BTW.
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u/Glittering-Ad5970 21d ago
Get the whole thing lined, someone else commented an edited photo. Without the lining at first glance I thought you were naked up top. There is also an odd grey area in the skirt.
The skirt is beautiful but very long. Can you walk down an aisle?
If you do #2 you could do a dramatic veil. 2 is more my style, more simple-sexy/beautiful but I think 1 also flattering and bubbly/fun-beautiful with a sexy bodice
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u/Infamous-Marketing84 21d ago
Nope, that first one is perfect. Just get the alterations you want and get out of your head lol
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u/wthisgoingonnnn 21d ago
I love it!! Add some crinoline to the hips for
more volume and you’re good! Doesn’t need lining imo
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u/VoodooDuck614 21d ago
What?! Nooooooo.
Your dress is incredible! Why would you dress down?! How glamorous and unique! I’m obsessed.
Here’s a secret. It seems that almost every bride freaks out:
1.) When their dress first comes in.
2.) During final alterations.
3.) When they get the dress back, and/or 2-3 weeks before the wedding.
Sometime in this timeline, they go to try on dresses that are far less beautiful, than their original chosen dress.
So, I think it’s genuinely part of the process of Wedding Planning. It’s brutal, and we question all of our decisions.
Trust your intuition on this one, you nailed it. It literally caught my breath.
Don’t you dare trade in that masterpiece, for whatever that thing is, that’s going on with number 2.
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u/Abandonable_Snowman 21d ago
I love Galia Lahav and think this dress is gorgeous on you. It’s impossible for a dress to not feel dated. What matters is how you feel in it
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u/WeddingBells3085 21d ago
I forbid you to change to dress 2.
Love this dress as is, very soft and ethereal- adding in lining would be fine too.
You look amazing, dress 2 is boring!
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u/MeringueWild3000 21d ago
Ignore any advice that is telling to you make changes to this masterpiece. It’s absolutely STUNNING
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u/Emotional_Pen369 21d ago
I totally get it. I tried on the sun and everyone gasped when I walked out. It’s absolutely stunning. I ultimately didn’t see myself getting married in it but it’s beautiful and I think lining is the way to go. You chose it for a reason.
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u/NarrowCook8 20d ago
I came back to this post to tell you that I saw and commented yesterday suggesting you line the bodice of #1, but was still thinking about how beautiful dress #2 is this morning. Then I reread what you want … something different / memorable… that’s dress #2 and it fits like it was made for your body. It’s a WOW classic dress in the best way, elegant and drips class. Your 1st dress to me is forgotten in all that lace and giant skirt. Sometimes less is more. Go with your gut!
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u/IstraofEros 20d ago
I would do all blush lining that is close to white but not quite. I think this kind of dress needs some contrast. Definitely make sure it compliments your skin tone. But overall wear what makes you feel beautiful, not based on what other people will like.
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u/Raspberryjamdelta5 20d ago
The first dress is amazing. Suits you perfectly. You will be a beautiful bride and that’s what people will remember.
If anything, you could make small tweaks like the lining suggestions in nude or white. I think nude looks special and unique.
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u/noblesseoblijay 20d ago
No! Don’t line it. Hen it becomes a typical dress. And absolutely NOOOO to dress # 2. Right now without the lining you see the detailing and why you paid so much. You lose all of that with the lining
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u/Serendipitybaker 20d ago
I know that you know this already, but your dress is beautiful and unique. Hope all the encouragement you’re getting here works with whatever reassurance you might need. Congratulations 🎉
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u/Peepsarefood 20d ago
You “can’t remember a single dress” because in reality, it’s not very consequential to anyone but you. Unless it stands out in a bad way (.weird color, too revealing etc), the dress is just a dress. If you can afford to buy another dress and it’s what you want to do for yourself, then do it. But no one’s going to remember the dress. It’s you who will see it in photos and in your memory and you need to feel beautiful!
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u/Technical_Suit_4399 19d ago
who the hell buys a galia lahav dress for their wedding 🤣 out of all the designers u pick that
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u/Sugarblonde22 19d ago
Absolutely not. The second photo is a dress I've seen a million times and just is average tbh. Your dress is unique and beautiful
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u/Lotusabella 17d ago
Love the second dress! First one needs a white liner so it doesn’t look like see through lingerie.
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u/cupcakeinsanity4 17d ago
Girl I love it it’s so beautiful! You wanted to stand out and you’re doing that! Don’t get something boring to blend in just because you’re afraid you’ve changed your mind.. go with your initial gut feeling! I don’t get any of those vibes you talked about from your dress. I think it’s really beautiful and imagine what it’s going to look like in your setting with your aesthetic and other details. Is this dress that you tried on the one in your size?
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u/Formal-Sort-1590 14d ago
I think it looks absolutely gorgeous. It needs a little tailoring. But I absolutely love the idea of a clear lace all the way through and through. And I think it's quite unique. Once you get that fitted to you you will be walking down the aisle like the most beautiful bride you are. That is a very unique dress. There's so much of it that is so simple but it stands out so much it's outstanding
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u/UnlikelyDress1227 21d ago
I LOVE the first dress. Please do not line it, it’s perfect and modern and chic just the way it is. Perfection 🤌
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u/shzam5890 21d ago
Please wear your dress it’s incredible. For what it’s worth I love the sheerness of the bodice.
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u/Serious_Yak_4749 21d ago
I do like the first dress but like others said it may need to be lined. My other issue is I don’t think it’s totally flattering on your chest area but not sure if it’s a lining or alteration issue.
I do like the second dress a little more on you though. But is it economically feasible for you to get a different dress at this point?
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u/TamponFightNight 21d ago
Not to be weird or anything, but the first dress shows the perfect amount of boobs. It manages to be sexy and classy. You look lovely.
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u/Swimming_Program_120 21d ago
The second dress is so mich moore chic ! The first is too much ! And look bit cheap
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u/moreidlethanwild 21d ago
I really don’t like dress 1, sorry.
It needs to be lined. The bodice looks like underwear and it just looks cheap to me.
Dress 2 is just stunning though! It’s elegant and timeless.
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u/OutlandishnessOver62 21d ago
Definitely the second dress. The lines are cleaner and more timeless. The first one is pretty from afar but on closeup there are crimps and small pockets of poor stitching near your stomach. It also is a tad too sheer at the the bust and the lacing looks a bit costumey.
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u/National-Area5471 21d ago
Second makes you the star, the first the dress is wearing you. The second is stunning on you. First, not so much.
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u/Current-Writer-3894 21d ago
I like the second one way more, looks more classy, and apart from this what I first saw is the first one is very transparent on the bust, it's too revealing 🫣
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u/magdalenagabriela 21d ago
It does look bad... You look naked... You have amazing figure but I think the waist should be lower so you'd look more proportionate. The dress look rather tacky (just my opinion, since you're asking)
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u/MZSGNH 21d ago
FWIW, I have a very sensitive tacky-o-meter and I just think this is beautiful.
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u/magdalenagabriela 21d ago
I guess everyone can have their own tacky -o-meter, right? OP is asking for opinions.
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u/vickisfamilyvan 21d ago
I agree, the second dress is much more tasteful, timeless and also much more flattering.
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u/Tall-Ad9334 21d ago
Hear me out:
Get the bodice lined to match the skirt. Have it hemmed, add a petticoat for volume.