Help! Major Dress Decision - Conflicted

I'd go with the new one, there's a lot less at risk there. I couldn't imagine having my dream dress possibly turn out looking not at all how it was supposed to considering alterations will bring you close to the same price new would cost anyway

That's tough. I'm no alterations expert but I think it would be very difficult to go from a 12 to a 0/2 without compromising the fit and detail of the dress. I would pay retail price for a new one. It sounds like you know it's the one!

If you would be returning the dress, you should be getting your money back. If that's the case, and you get refunded or getting it exchanged for your size, it shouldn't be the full 1500. I would definitely exchange it and get the one closer to size.

I'd have to agree.. if there's that much detail and it doesn't come out of alterations perfectly, you might end up spending more on the off-the-rack one anyways!

I'd definitely switch over, if just for the peace of mind; although, you do have plenty of time at least

I would get the one in your size! It seems like any savings by keeping the larger dress would be minimal (~$200-$400?). That is worth peace of mind to me! If it was saving you closer to $800 and up I think that would be a different story.

I'd go with the one that is your size, there's way less risk, and you know that the dress you're getting is how it's supposed to look, and the dress you fell in love with. I've seen too many horror stories coming from people who tried to alter too many sizes away.

I'd go with a new one. I heard it's okay to go in a size or two, but that's a drastic change. Good luck!

Are you a 0/2 in regular clothes, or bridal size? I'm a 0/2 in regular clothes and the size 6 Stella York fit me almost perfectly (just a bit too big). Whatever you do, make sure you get measured so they order the correct size.

Honestly, you'll probably spend $500 on alterations with the new dress. I spent $350 on a bustle, a hem, and having the back/straps taken in a little bit. My friend spent $450 on a hem, bustle, and having cups added. Alterations are expensive so make sure you add it to your budget.

I was told u cannot alter more then 2 dress sizes as it will change the shape of the dress.

I have a friend that is really small and she needed an 8 in her gown (it was also a Stella York). It came in and basically first perfectly, so I wouldn't get stuck on the actual number size. Ask to see your measurements and the size chart before they place the order to confirm, but an 8 is probably the right size, even if it seems a lot bigger than what you normally wear because bridal sizing is super wacky. I saw that you're going with the new dress, which is probably a good choice! But just so you know, taking in a size 12 dress to a size 8 isn't that crazy since that is only two dress sizes.

I would totally buy a new one. Alterations are great, but I think it will be perfect if it is made in your size.