I was describing the kind of dress I want to one of my girlfriends (who has a heart of GOLD), and hers was just like what I wanted so I asked where she got it, and she said I could HAVE hers for free! I'm so excited at the thought of using it because I'm really stressed about the cost of planning our destination wedding, and the dress is beautiful.
I tried it on over the weekend and the length is perfect. I need to lose a few pounds to make the hips fit properly, and would definitely need to bring the top in so I don't pop out. She had not dry-cleaned it since her wedding 3 years ago, so there are some old stains that need to be removed. Nothing major, but one small discoloration on the chest, some discoloration around the arms/back (probably sweat or makeup), and the bottom is dirty from dragging on the ground.
I just tried calling my local dry cleaner and they quoted me $400 (!!!!!) just for dry cleaning. It's the Stella York 5840 so it is satin with a lace overlay and a train. Granted I live in Orange County and this was a high end cleaner, but still!! Does anyone know how much dry cleaning is supposed to cost, and what I could expect from some moderate alterations if all I need to do is tighten the chest? I want to take advantage of the free dress, but I'm wondering if it would be cheaper to find something off the rack that's already clean, or if I just need to find the right cleaner & tailor. I'm also afraid of spending a ton on the dry cleaning because if there's a chance the stains don't come out then that would be a huge waste if I end up buying a new dress anyway. Has anyone else taken a dress with older stains in and had them come out successfully?
