Drum Roll ...

I BOUGHT A DRESS (!!)

Good news ... I'll tell you all about it.

Bad news ... in all the excitement I forgot a picture.  It's new to the scene and I can't find it online.  The shop is an hour away so my memory will have to serve until it comes in early April.  I'll keep checking the website.

Here's the scoop:

Night and day difference from the other store.  I walked in, got help, gave my "list" and was told to browse and she would get a room/dresses ready.  And she DID!

She had a few things to tell me.

(1)  Having a shorter dress (ie not full length) presents the problem of dressing so that I look like the MOG and not one of the guests.  (I realized that too.)

(2)  I should NOT use the same color palette as the MOB (unless it was requested).

(3)  Navy is fine with a neutral, pale bridal party -- always a classic and fine for a summer wedding.

(4)  I need to look like I'm at the same event as the MOB, but I need to wear my style and my comfort level -- always.

(5)  I need a formal garden dress based on the venue, time of day, etc.

(6)  I'll be challenged to find a dress that's not too matronly since I'm on the younger end (LOL).  She'll be honest with me, but, of course, I can always override her.

Then I had a few comments ...

(1)  I'm harder to fit than you realize.
(2)  Comfort is #1 thing on my list.
(3)  I won't wear anything that I can underarm sweat through -- no matter how good it looks.

After trying on some dresses, she realized I AM HARD TO FIT.  No one believes me -- oh, you're tall, it's easy.  Nope.  I'm proportioned oddly, my knees ARE strange (she conceded that - haha) and very few necklines work for me (hence, the illusion neckline being my choice).

Complicated by the fact that most of these dresses are made in China.  The factories have closed production because of the virus outbreak.  Only dresses that are actually made can be shipped, until further notice.

There was EXACTLY ONE dress in the entire store that fit my list.  One.  No second choice.  No possible options.  One dress.  The saleswoman was surprised.  "You don't look right in those other dresses -- the top fits strange, don't show your knees, this hits your waist all wrong, this makes you look cut off."

Told you so.  But I wish I was wrong.  People think having some height makes all things happen -- it doesn't.

Ready ...

It's navy blue with a shear overlay, sleeveless and embroidered appliqué that mimics a simple lace.  The skirt is a-line and has body and stiffness -- but it's light weight.  I don't need shape wear or pantyhose or a bra.  What!?!?  Yep.

Currently it's full length with a little train in back and a high-low in front.  It'll be hemmed to the same length all around -- tea length with just my ankles showing.

No jewelry needed except earrings and a bracelet (if I want).  No belt.  Maybe a cute wrist bag with a little color.  Simple.  Classic.  No Fuss.

Bless the heavens.  I can't believe it's over.  I will fret a little about shipping (with the China connection), but I'm assured it'll be no issue.

Now to fit into said dress ...  that's a story for another day.  For now, I'll bask in the wedding MOG dress shopping COMPLETION.