it always looks better in person

I wish I had better photography skills because I don't feel like these pictures do this fabric or dress the justice that it deserves! I think part of my problem is the lighting in the room--even with my spotlight umbrellas everything turns out pretty dark. I know if I could adjust my camera manually I wouldn't have this problem! Anyway, today I finished the bodice and attached it to the skirt and I absolutely love the combination! Originally I feared there would be too much going on with the lace and the busyness of the skirt, but it is actually a great combination. Once I get the bodice lined it should have more structure and not look as droopy as it does on my dress form. At this point, I'm working on the zipper. I put it in once but realized that it was a bit big on me still, so I took the zipper out to take it in a little. I am contemplating making a beaded/flowered belt for the waistband to give it a little more umph. With the contrasting fabric I want it to have a more eclectic feeling. Overall, I'm excited about where this dress is going and think that it may end up being my favorite.

The skirt is a perfect length for me. It lands just below the knees at the most flattering part of the leg. It is so nice to not have to alter that part of the dress. Come to think of it, those boots in the picture behind the dress may look really cute with it :) I do dream of having square dancing at my reception!