My Dress Is In My Apartment!

Holy crap! This might be a little too much responsibility for me. I think I liked it better when Nicole Miller was storing it.

Tomorrow is my first fitting. I have the shoes and the dress, now I just have to run to the store to get some Spanx.  I was instructed to be as prepared as possible. I'm bringing a little extra body fat to this first meeting that I plan on losing before the final fitting. (Fingers Crossed)

Nicole Miller for President!

The dress is in! (but not pictured here, I want to keep some mystery to this thing) I have to say that I had the best experience at Nicole Miller. Some of my best girls got their wedding dresses there, so I knew when it was my time I was going to at least check out the website. I found a ton of things I loved, one especially. 

I wasn't really interested in spending three hours trying on a billion dresses in a giant bridal store. My appointment at Nicole Miller was private, I was the only one trying on dresses. They have a varied selection that has something for everyone, but doesn't overwhelm. 

They offered us champagne (we opted for water, however, since it was 10 a.m. and we had to drive to Long Beach after...ok, probably more B than A) and took time to answer all my questions. 

Annie in the Los Angeles store is Fabulous beyond words. The dress came in quickly and they recommended local places for alterations. And the prices are fantastic compared to how outrageous these things can be. 

A+++ for Nicole Miller, I couldn't be happier. 

Beyond Amazing Dresses

Two words: Joan Shum. I am lucky enough to live about an hour from Long Beach, CA where the talented designer has a studio. My mom and I visited her this weekend and I got to try on a few of her amazing creations. 

I am fairly comfortable with my body, but admittedly have no discernible curve to my waist. Joan trussed me up in one of her handmade corsets and voila, I had a waist! It was fantastic. I tried on the dress above. I love the net shirt under the corset and she uses vintage broaches, which she collects and keeps in a charming red jewelry box. 

I really wanted to try on this skirt with the incredible rose bustle, but this lovely model is much much smaller than me and it wouldn't quite fit. Indiana brides, I know, I know, but she has an Etsy shop. She makes it to your exact specifications and measurements. You may have to fly to Long Beach for a fitting, but aren't these creations worth it??