The Dress

This Allure Madison James Halani dress was so flattering and never fell down (partially since it was altered to be very snug with my body). No matter what I did or the position I stood in, it came out great in photos. It made my waist look thinner compared to other dresses I tried on (both in person and in photos) - something about the fit, material, and the optical illusion with the leaf details. This flattering and sliming fit in the waist was the main reason why I ultimately went with this dress over others. It's a bit like a corset up top, so there was also no possibility of unforgiving belly angles for the photos.

I wear a size small to medium in t-shirts. 133lbs, 5'3" at the time of the wedding. Lululemon tops I usually wear size 8.

I learned from the alteration experience that it's easier to take in - so if you are my size or smaller, this would be an easier alteration. If you live in the San Diego area, you are welcome to try it on.

Dress has been professionally cleaned and pressed.

link to dress: https://usabridal.com/p21970590/madison-james-bridal-mj1014.html

Alterations

bustled, taken in at the bust and waist, shortened (I was 5'5" with heels, though there was still plenty of material at the bottom so this could accommodate 5'8" with heels comfortably)