The Dress

This dress is a sample which has never been worn outside of the bridal shop, and never altered or dry cleaned. After purchasing this sample dress, I ultimately bought and wore a different dress for my wedding.

I purchased this sample dress from a bridal shop for $8,000 (whereas a brand-new custom version of this dress would retail for more than $15,000) -- it was in great condition for a sample, but with some wear on the bottom which will definitely be removed when hemmed because the dress is very long) and some minor fraying/spot cleaning necessary on some of the applique at the bodice. The straps are dirty from people trying them on over time so honestly I would recommend either (a) removing them and wearing this as a strapless dress - which is common with this dress -- it has a great corset structure that will make sure it stays up with or without straps, or (b) having new straps sewn on at alterations which is straightforward.

The dress also comes with extra floral appliques, which can be used to add more coverage to the bust area if desired at the alterations phase (or to cover/replace any existing applique florals that are slightly frayed or have minor discoloration/staining on them). I did also notice there is a small section on the back along the zipper where the organza came away from the zipper needs to be reattached but this alteration seems straightforward.

In the photos of me drying on the dress, it is clipped in the back because it is too big (and I am standing on an 8-inch pedestal). It is approximately a U.S. size 6 , and is long. I am approximately a U.S. size 2-4 and am 5'6" if that is useful information - but again the dress was too big and too long for me in its current condition.

Would love for this dress to finally be part of someone's wedding ceremony! It is truly breathtaking.