The Dress

Colour: Ivory lace with "almond" underlayer

I seriously got sooo many compliments about this dress on the day of our wedding! I loved wearing it and didn't want to take it off. It is really striking with the lace boat neck and if you have bony shoulders like me, this covers them up a treat ;) It also has a lovely train that can't be seen in the photos.

From the website: A completely bespoke design, this layered lace wedding dress with plunging V-neckline from Essense of Australia is oh-so dreamy. A high neckline with an organic-lace finish perfectly complements the plunging V-neckline of this bodice. Layers of cotton-style lace and French lace come together to create a soft, unique look that continues through the bodice and onto the skirt. Sheer cutouts adorn the sides of the gown, and extend into an open back. Bugle beadwork is placed throughout the gown to help create dimension. Large, lace motifs adorn the back of the skirt, which extends into a long, frothy train. The back of this layered lace wedding dress zips up beneath pearl buttons.

Link to website: https://www.essensedesigns.com/essense-of-australia/wedding-dresses/d2548/

Alterations

I bought this dress in a size AU14 and had it taken in (I have a broad back and the 12 didn't fit properly). I would say it fits a size AU10-12 now. I also had the length shortened a little bit (I am 178cm and wore 10cm heels) and a bustle added.

I also wore a floor-length single tier veil that was custom-made by my dressmaker. It got stepped on and ripped at the very bottom but I am happy to throw this in for free also, as it could just be straightened up and would still be floor-length.