I’m about a 14 in street clothes after losing some weight… which meant my custom gown had to be taken in multiple times! But I am about as far from standard as you get — I’m the right height at 5′7″, but I’m busty, my back is small across, I have hips AND a rear, and a tiny waist. Nothing ever fits me. We altered my gown up to the last minute, and I picked it up the day before the wedding. I’d have needed hell alterations to get anything to fit me.

I’ve heard quite a few good reviews over Julius Bridal, althoguh I was afraid to go with them. I’m too much of a fabric snob and control freak, and since my dress was about the color of this web page, I was afraid to leave the color selection to anybody but me Besides, the main thing I wanted was the gorgeous lace we bought.

Still, if you’re between about 5′5″ and 5′8″ and wear a pretty standard size, you may well be able to find a good deal without worrying about preservation and storage afterwards…but don’t serve red wine with dinner!

That’s another reason it wouldn’t have worked for me: I’m a messy eater.

I would love to buy multiple ball gowns too…but alas, there aren’t many events here in Utah that require formal wear.