Looking for a wedding dress was one of the first wedding-related things I did. In fact, I have been eying gowns for years. I love fashion, pretty fabrics and dresses– what’s not to love?

From unique-vintage.com

I’ve always liked vintage styles, from the ’50s silhouettes found at Stephanie James or the 1930’s recreations at Unique Vintage.

From nicolemiller.com

Nicole Miller’s styles are also some of my favorites. She makes lots of lovely, beachy styles in high-quality silk. For brides on a budget, her bridesmaid dresses can also double as wedding gowns since many of them come in white, ivory and champagne shades.

From moncheribridals.com

Notice any trends? I was really drawn to long, floaty sheaths with feminine details and not much in the way of a train. Plus they seemed to fit in so well with our venue on the beach. For more drool-worthy frocks, check out Jenny Packham and Claire Pettibone. Just don’t look at the prices, or you’ll faint dead away.

Of course, when I ended up trying on these types of dresses, they looked uniformly awful on me. I really should’ve heeded Trinny and Susannah’s advice and saved myself the trouble; hourglass girls need clothing that defines the waist and plays up the curves. I looked so dumpy. So I placed myself at the mercy of the bridal shop attendants and pressed on in my search.

Did your dress end up being different than what you originally envisioned?