So we're thinking of completely changing our plans (Selling our bouquets that we have 50% down when we get them - I'm kinda afraid of them not coming in on time anyway... and I'm thinking how much less stressful it'd be to make them myself)

and I DO have a dress that could fit a beach wedding, but I want colored crinoline (which my mom doesn't want me to have) and I'm wondering if a sash could completely change the look of the dress. I HATE the ruching in the middle (I realized this, after my mom bought it, it was only $150) and I showed it to FH and he said he hated it from the waist down (which I will NOT wear a hoop skirt, I refuse to. I want colored crinoline d*mnit! LOL) The stock image is just horrendously ugly too (I showed him the stock image, not a picture of me in it) and I'm just thinking how much cheaper it's gonna be to have a beach wedding as of late, so I'm thinking of just doing the beach wedding because, I just wanna get married at this point. My family is bringing way too much drama into my life over it all.I got badgered into buying this dress because it was a discount and it fit, basically. the whole way to the ladies house my grandma was saying "she prayed i'd find a dress there today" blah blah blah.

I'm just wondering if he'd like it better with the colored crionline and a sash (or even an underbust corset that's blue maybe?) around the waist to hide the ruching. I mean, I don't feel like I really wanna wear the dress, but I'm wondering if I hide the ruching and add a crinoline if I'd like it better... I dunno. I just need some opinions. We're in a really tough spot financially (because I have no job at all) and I don't think I could even afford a dress I LOVE (this dress I just like in it's current state...) by the time I'd have to put down a downpayment.

The strap around my neck is too big too, and I *think* it needs hemmed. My grandma said she'd do all the alterations too (she did it for my cousin too) so that'd save a huge chunk of change right there. the lady also said if we go back before the wedding, she will steam the dress for us too. I also am wondering white kind of bustle would look best with it, because I don't think it has a bustle currently.

Krystal -

Its your wedding - do what you want - but remember that weddings are a family affair - MOST people cannot help themselves...they want to be a part of your big day - and the excitement of your wedding. 

Your dress - obviously you are not in love with it.  You can tell by the look on your face in the first picture.  I would seriously consider removing the halter (I think the halter has a tendency to make BBW's look even more top heavy) and making the top of your gown a sweetheart, modified sweetheart or a true strapless gown (not sure if you can do this with a corset).  Add a cute bolo and a colored sash.  The ruching is actually very slimming and I like the cut away.  I dont think that a crinoline is necessary at all - you seem to have plenty of "poof" without it. 

Love the train - and I love the underbustles...they seem to add the least amount of bulk to the "rear" area.

HTH - Melissa

http://www.sewdeb.com/bustle2.html

To see excellent examples of the underbustle process...for Grandma!

http://www.bolerojacketsandshrugs.com/whitebolerowithruffles-2.aspx

Love this ruffled bolero - and it goes up to a 3x...

vstar5150 high five! Its your wedding and as the bride you do what YOU want to do. Take what others say inconsideration but ultimately its YOU and your FH who really matters. Now please after you make those wonderful changes let us see:D

I like your dress -- especially the roushing...  Maybe open up the neckline a little making the halter narrower if you want that thinnger (as opposed to coming in from the arms...).  I think It's great!  As for bustles -- I know nothing about them.  Hemmin -- At the bridal store they said the dress is supposed to be 1" from the floor...

It's your day, you need to wear a gown that you love! If you dont feel like a beautiful bride, then it isnt the right dress.  Dont give in to what everyone else wants you to wear, this is your day, the final say is yours!